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Rando Québec: 5 hiking destinations for summer
6 minutes
To kick off hiking season, we're sharing an excerpt from an article by Dominique Caron for Rando Québec, one of our partners. This non-profit organization plays an important role in the development of hiking across Quebec. Its mission is to support the growth and long-term sustainability of the activity throughout the province by serving both outdoor enthusiasts and the organizations that manage and maintain the trail network.
This article highlights a selection of hiking destinations across Quebec to help you plan your next adventure on the trails.
Whether you're looking for your next long-distance hike or simply planning a family outing, this selection of destinations is sure to help you find the perfect trail. Text: Dominique Caron
La grande course trail
Île aux Lièvres – Bas-Saint-Laurent
Île aux Lièvres, located in the St. Lawrence River, offers several well-marked hiking trails. For a longer stay, visitors can take advantage of the various accommodation options available, including campsites, cottages, and an inn with a dining room. Among the island’s most popular routes is the La grande course Trail, which allows hikers to explore the island from end to end while enjoying panoramic views of the river and neighbouring islands. Covering 14.5 km, the trail showcases a variety of landscapes, from coniferous forests to expansive beaches. Rated as moderate, it is suitable for most hikers. Lady’s slippers, dwarf trees, and lichens are part of the island’s scenery. Wildlife enthusiasts may also spot common eiders, great blue herons, and even marine mammals such as belugas.
- Trail network: 45 km
- Access: From Highway 20, take Exit 507 and follow the signs for the Rivière-du-Loup–Saint-Siméon ferry. The ferry departs from the marina at Pointe de Rivière-du-Loup.
- Info: duvetnor.com
Cadot et Button trail
The Traversée de Charlevoix – Charlevoix
While the Traversée de Charlevoix is renowned for its multi-day hiking routes, its network also includes several excellent day hikes. The Cadot and Button trail is a relatively easy route that rewards hikers with stunning views of Lac à l’Écluse and the mountain of the same name. There are two possible starting points: one from the ZEC des Martres (parking fees apply) and another from the Dôme parking area. From the ZEC, the round trip exceeds 12 km, although part of the route follows a gravel road. From the Dôme, the entire hike is on gravel, and hikers can register at a self-service station near the trailhead. The total distance from this starting point is 14.3 km. Several backcountry shelters are also located near the trail, making this an ideal destination to combine a hike with an overnight stay and extend the adventure.
- Length: Between 12.5 km (ZEC des Martres) and 14.3 km (Le Dôme, kilometre 23.2)
- Access: From Baie-Saint-Paul, follow Highway 138 East, then Route 381 North to the reception station at kilometre 10.6. The white house is located on the right, behind the former museum.
- Info: traverseedecharlevoix.qc.ca
Montagne d’Argent loop
Parc d’escalade et de randonnée de la Montagne d’Argent - Laurentians
Rock climbers are likely already familiar with this destination, thanks to its impressive cliffs. Hikers are equally well served, as the park features several trails dedicated to hiking. Considered advanced, the 5.7 km Montagne d’Argent loop offers several viewpoints along with a series of climbs and descents. The trail also follows the shores of Lac d’Argent, a small lake connected to the Rouge River.
- Trail network: Approximately 15 km
- Access: Parking is located on Montagne-d’Argent Road and can be reached via Highway 117 or directly from Route Principale in La Conception. The reception area and trailhead are 100 metres from the parking lot.
- Info: montagnedargent.com
Domaine des Chutes du Ruisseau Creux
Saint-Alphonse-de-Caplan – Gaspésie
From the parking area, visitors can already admire the impressive suspension bridge spanning the beautiful Bonaventure River. Crossing above its striking blue waters marks the beginning of the hiking experience at Domaine des Chutes du Ruisseau Creux. The site is home to beautiful waterfalls and streams carved into the rock. The famous Ruisseau Creux Falls can be reached by following the Rivière Trail (3.5 km) and the Bûcheron Trail (2.5 km). For elevated views, head to the observation tower via the Mont Chauve route (11.3 km). This destination is well worth the detour and is sure to become a favourite.
- Trail network: More than 20 km
- Access: From Caplan, follow Route de Saint-Alphonse for 10 km. At the end of the road, turn right onto road Principale Est and continue for 4.5 km. Then turn left onto Route de la Rivière and continue for another 2.5 km to reach the Domaine parking area.
- Info: domainedeschutesduruisseaucreux.com
The Bowan Forest Regional Park
Bowman – Outaouais
A hidden gem, Bowman Regional Forest Park covers approximately 680 hectares in the municipality of Bowman, within the Papineau Regional County Municipality. The park features a diverse landscape of old-growth forests, hills, lakes, streams, cliffs, caves, and waterfalls. Its trail network includes several well-maintained routes and loops suited to different skill levels. The Panorama Trail, a 4 km loop, offers numerous viewpoints overlooking the surrounding lakes and mountains. The Bagnole trail is a 1.8 km out-and-back route that follows a stream and leads to the Cèdre shelter. The Ange trail (3.2 km) reaches Trout Lake, where hikers can enjoy beautiful sunset views.
- Trail network: 9 km
- Access: From Highway 50, take the exit toward Route 309 North. Follow Chemin de la Savane toward Chemin du Lac-du-Brochet in Bowman. The address is 50 Chemin du Lac-du-Brochet.
- Info: bowman.ca/tourisme/parc-regional-de-la-foret-bowman
Did you find your next hiking destination? Summer hiking season is here, and the trail are waiting for you.
Pack your backpack, lace up your hiking shoes, and head out to explore the trails. Make sure you have all the essential equipment for your adventure and visit one of our stores to complete your hiking kit.
If you're looking for even more hiking destination ideas, check out the tool Balise from Rando Québec. This free directory brings together detailed information on thousands of trails across the province. Developed and managed by Rando Québec, this Quebec-based resource gathers information directly from trail managers, providing reliable and up-to-date details to help you plan your next hiking adventures.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking
How should you get equipped for hiking in Quebec?
Choose lightweight and breathable clothing that wicks moisture away from your skin. Use a layering system to adapt to changing weather conditions and temperatures. A comfortable backpack is essential for your essential equipment, and proper hiking footwear should be selected based on the type of hiking you plan to do.
How can you prevent blisters while hiking?
Before hitting the trails, wear your hiking shoes a few times to help break them in. Technical hiking socks can reduce friction and help keep your feet dry. It's also a good idea to carry blister bandages to prevent or treat blisters.
When is the best time to go hiking in Quebec?
There is no single best season for hiking in Quebec, it depends on your preferences. Summer offers long daylight hours and generally excellent weather, although temperatures can be quite warm. Spring and fall provide beautiful scenery, milder temperatures, and often fewer crowds. Winter also has its appeal, with snowy landscapes offering a unique way to experience Quebec's natural beauty.
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