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Top 10 Places to Go Hiking in Quebec That Are Totally Worth the Climb
Nothing beats the satisfaction of saying, “You’ve got a long way ahead, eh?” to a total stranger as you cruise down the trail, sweaty but victorious. Hiking is the perfect mix of leg-burning climbs, breathtaking views, and those awkward trail encounters.
Whether it’s powering through that last steep incline or pretending you’re not out of breath when someone passes, it’s all part of the adventure.
And let’s be honest, nothing makes that post-hike snack taste better than earning it with a little blood, sweat, and blisters. So grab your boots—let’s talk about the best hikes in Quebec!
Jacques-Cartier National Park
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Address: 103 Chem. du Parc National, Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury
Difficulty: Intermediate to difficult
Distance: 11 km round trip
Duration: 3 to 5 hours
Incline: Steady, with challenging sections near the top
Just 30 minutes north of Quebec City, Jacques-Cartier National Park is a haven for nature lovers. Here, you can explore towering cliffs and lush forests while wandering alongside the winding Jacques-Cartier River.
One of the park’s standout hikes is the Les Loups Trail, which offers an incredible tour of the stunning landscape. As you trek along this trail, you’ll find it gradually climbs through thick evergreen forests, leading you to breathtaking viewpoints that seem straight out of a postcard.
This hike isn’t just about the scenery; it’s a great way to get a workout while soaking up some fresh mountain air. Plus, keep your eyes peeled—you might spot some local wildlife, like moose and deer, along the way.
Pro tip:
Arrive early to get the best views and avoid crowds, especially during fall. The park is a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers, so an early start will give you a quieter, more intimate experience.
Mount Wright Ancient Forest Park
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Address: 18 Chem. de l’Escalade, Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury
Difficulty: Easy to intermediate
Distance: 5 km round trip
Duration: 2 hours
Incline: Moderate with a few steep sections
If you’re craving a different adventure, Mount Wright Ancient Forest Park is the spot to check out. This park feels like stepping into another world, with its 300-year-old trees, mossy boulders, and rugged trails inviting you to wander and explore.
Unlike bigger, more crowded parks, Mount Wright has an intimate vibe, with trails that wind through shaded groves, giving the place a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. The Summit Trail offers a moderate climb to a lookout point where you’ll get a gorgeous view of the surrounding forest.
But honestly, the real star of the show here is the forest itself. Walking beneath the canopy of those ancient trees just fills you with a sense of wonder, especially since there’s always something new to discover in your surroundings.
Pro tip:
Some sections of the trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear shoes with good traction, and if you’re hiking after wet weather, take extra caution on the rocky portions near the summit.
Vallée Bras-du-Nord
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Address: 107 Rang Grande Ligne, Saint-Raymond
Difficulty: Easy to intermediate
Distance: 10 km round trip
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Incline: Gentle with moderate hills
Tucked about an hour outside Quebec City, Vallée Bras-du-Nord offers one of the most varied and adventurous hiking experiences in the province. Picture yourself walking alongside rushing rivers, passing by towering cliffs, and stumbling upon waterfalls as you make your way through the forest.
The Sentier du Castor (Beaver Trail) is one of the park’s known routes, winding its way along the river and offering frequent opportunities to pause and take in the views of the surrounding wilderness. You’ll likely encounter fewer hikers than in other well-known parks, which means more time to soak in the tranquillity.
One of the most striking features of Vallée Bras-du-Nord is how isolated it feels. Even though it’s relatively close to civilization, the moment you hit the trail, you’re enveloped by nature.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking to extend your time here, consider staying overnight in one of the park’s yurts or cabins.
Mont Mégantic National Park
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Address: 189 Rte du Parc, Notre-Dame-des-Bois
Difficulty: Intermediate to difficult
Distance: 10 km round trip
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Incline: Steep, especially near the summit
If you’re up for a hike that’s not only packed with stunning views but also a little bit of magic after dark, Mont Mégantic National Park should be on your list. It’s known for its towering peaks and the top-tier observatory, so this place is a dream for outdoor lovers and stargazers.
The Mont Saint-Joseph Trail is a solid workout, but the payoff at the top is worth every step. Once you reach the summit, you’ll see views of the Appalachian Mountains, and you’ll also stumble upon a charming old chapel and the park’s observatory—a cool mix of nature, history, and science all in one spot.
But what really sets Mont Mégantic apart is its Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best spots in North America to catch a glimpse of the night sky in all its glory.
Pro tip:
Try to plan your visit during one of the park’s special stargazing events. The observatory often hosts public viewings, giving you a chance to see deep into the universe through its powerful telescopes after a day of hiking.
Station touristique Duchesnay
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Address: 140 Mnt de l’Auberge, Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 6 km round trip
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Incline: Minimal
For a more relaxed hiking experience that’s perfect for families, Station Touristique Duchesnay offers a mix of short, easy trails that wind around lakes and through peaceful forests. The Sentier des Lacs is one of the park’s most popular trails, offering serene views of the area’s numerous lakes.
The trail is relatively flat, making it an excellent choice for families with younger children or those just looking for a casual nature walk. Duchesnay is also known for its wide variety of outdoor activities, so if you want to make a day of it, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and even zip-lining.
But even if you stick to hiking, there’s a sense of calm and serenity that makes this park stand out.
Pro tip:
Pack a picnic and find a spot by one of the lakes to enjoy a leisurely lunch with a view. It’s also a great spot for some birdwatching, so if you’re into wildlife, bring a pair of binoculars.
Mont-Tremblant National Park
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Address: 3824 Chemin du Lac Supérieur, Lac-Supérieur
Difficulty: Intermediate
Distance: 6 km round trip
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Incline: Moderate, with a few steeper sections
Mont-Tremblant National Park, Quebec’s largest and oldest, has earned its place as a top spot for outdoor enthusiasts. One trail that stands out is La Corniche, a favourite for good reason.
It’s a relatively short hike, but the reward at the end—a sweeping view over Lake Monroe—is nothing short of breathtaking. Along the way, you might spot some wildlife, like birds or small critters, adding a little extra charm to your trek.
But once you hit that lookout, it’s all about the view. The sight of the lake and mountains stretching out in front of you is one of those “wow” moments that make Mont-Tremblant so special.
Pro tip:
This is a well-maintained trail, but it can still get busy on weekends. If you’re hoping for a quieter experience, try visiting mid-week or early in the morning.
Mont-Sainte-Anne
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Address: 2000 Bd du Beau Pré, Beaupré
Difficulty: Intermediate
Distance: 7 km round trip
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Incline: Moderate with some steeper sections
A 40-minute drive from Quebec City, Mont-Sainte-Anne might be famous for its ski slopes, but come summer, it turns into a paradise for hikers. One trail that stands out is the Panoramic Loop.
It offers just the right amount of challenge with a moderate climb through lush forest, and the reward? Stunning views of the St. Lawrence River make the trek worth it.
The path is easy to follow, with a nice mix of shady forest stretches and open clearings to keep things interesting. Once you hit the top, you’re greeted with a jaw-dropping view of the river winding toward the horizon, with rolling hills all around and even a glimpse of Quebec City in the distance on clear days.
Pro tip:
For a little extra fun, take the gondola down after your hike. It’s a great way to give your legs a break and take in even more of the stunning scenery without having to retrace your steps.
Saguenay Fjords National Park
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Address: 91 Rue Notre Dame, Rivière-Éternité
Difficulty: Intermediate to difficult
Distance: 7.6 km round trip
Duration: 3 to 5 hours
Incline: Steep with lots of stairs
If you’re looking for a hiking experience that feels truly epic, Saguenay Fjords National Park should be at the top of your list. The park is famous for its dramatic cliffs that rise steeply from the water, creating an awe-inspiring backdrop for your hike.
The Sentier de la Statue Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in the park, offering a steep but rewarding climb that ends at a statue of the Virgin Mary perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the fjord below.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale swimming in the fjord or a peregrine falcon soaring overhead.
Pro tip:
With its steep incline and numerous stairs, this trail can be tough on the knees. If you have knee issues, consider bringing hiking poles to help with the descent.
Mauricie National Park
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Address: Chem. de Saint-Jean-des-Piles, Shawinigan
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 4 km round trip
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Incline: Gentle
Tucked between Montreal and Quebec City, Mauricie National Park is a true hidden gem that’s perfect for anyone looking to escape into nature without the crowds. The park is known for its rolling hills, serene lakes, and endless forests, creating a peaceful retreat for hikers of all skill levels.
The Les Cascades Trail is a perfect introduction to the park, offering a gentle walk that takes you past a series of picturesque waterfalls. It’s an easy trail that’s great for families or those who just want to enjoy a relaxing day in nature.
There are plenty of spots to stop and take in the beauty of the waterfalls, and on warm days, you can even dip your feet in the water to cool off.
Pro tip:
Keep an eye on the rocks around the waterfalls—they can be slippery, so make sure you have proper footwear to avoid slips and falls.
Forillon National Park
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Address: 2286 Bd de Grande-Grève, Gaspé
Difficulty: Intermediate
Distance: 15 km round trip
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Incline: Moderate
At the far edge of the Gaspé Peninsula, Forillon National Park offers a hiking experience that feels truly wild. With its rugged coastline, towering cliffs, and the chance to spot wildlife like seals, whales, and seabirds, it’s the perfect place to escape and immerse yourself in nature.
One of the more rewarding hikes is the Les Graves Trail, a challenging coastal trek that opens up to breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. As you make your way through dense forests, open meadows, and rocky cliffs, the scenery keeps you captivated.
The hike gives you a true sense of adventure, and the views along the way—vast stretches of ocean on one side and dramatic cliffs on the other—are nothing short of spectacular.
Pro tip:
Coastal weather can change quickly, so bring a windbreaker or extra layers. It can feel significantly cooler near the cliffs due to strong winds.