Charlevoix World Biosphere Reserve
Charlevoix boasts an abundance of natural attractions that you should
take the time to discover during your visit to the region. Below are
a few of the noteworthy sites that are easy to get to and have many
outdoor activities to offer.
Le Sentier des Caps
Route 138 East.
Only 15 minutes from the Val-des-Neiges Hotel.
The Sentier des Caps trail runs parallel to the St. Lawrence River
along the top of a mountain range and extends 50 km (30 miles) between
Cap Tourmente and the Massif de la Petite-Rivière-Saint-François.
Some of the peaks are nearly 800 m (2600’) high. Charming belvederes
offer an impressive view of the St. Lawrence in its full majesty.
Site of one of the province’s oldest forests, with many giant
birch trees.
Parc national des Grands-Jardins
Route 138 East then Route 381 North.
Follow the signs to the site.
Only 1 hour from the Val-des-Neiges Hotel.
The Far North only one hour from the Val-des-Neiges Hotel? Really,
we’re not kidding! Explore a northern landscape normally not
found at our latitude: lichens, taiga, tundra and craggy mountains
with smooth, rounded summits. Approximately 20-km (12-mile) trail
along former forestry roads. For intermediate-level hikers looking
for a change of scenery.
Parc des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie
Route 138 East to Saint-Aimé-des-Lacs.
Follow the signs to the site.
Only 1 hour and 15 minutes from the Val-des-Neiges Hotel.
Hike along trails at the heart of the Charlevoix World Biosphere Reserve.
The trails criss-cross the base of the highest mountains east of the
Rockies and run parallel to the slow-flowing Malbaie River. Experience
the satisfaction of climbing the Acropole des Draveurs, a peak towering
1048 m (3458’) above sea level. The plant life at the summit
is that usually found in an alpine/Arctic tundra, which is fairly
rare in Quebec. Visitor pavilion, shuttle, nature interpretation activities
and hiking trails of different levels of difficulty. Also available:
8 km (4.8 miles) of easy-level bike paths through the forest; some
are paved. Equipment rental.
