5 NATURAL PARKS TO DISCOVER FOR A PERFECT WEEKEND GETAWAY
Quebec and its surrounding areas are full of wonderful places to escape for a week-end in nature. If you are looking for a place to go, these natural park suggestions will surely spark your imagination.
For the mountain lover : Le parc national de la Gaspésie
In this huge park located in the heart of our famous cat's paw, there is no need for compromise. Whether you are a mountain hiker or a canoe-camping enthusiast, you will find everything your adventurer heart desires. On site, you will have the opportunity to discover the lush wildlife of Mont-Albert and admire immense lakes and impressive waterfalls. With a little luck, you may even spot a caribou!
With its many trails, ranging from easy to expert levels, this park can suit thrill seekers as well as beginners. During winter season, put on your snowshoes or your cross country skis and discover the many hiking trails accessible all year round.
For a complete getaway 30 minutes away from Quebec City: Le parcnational de la Jacques-Cartier
The Jacques-Cartier National Park is one of the largest glacial valleys of our territory. In this enchanting land, you can camp, canoe, hike and enjoy a spectacular view of the Jacques-Cartier valley. When hiking, it's not uncommon to spot white-tailed deer, foxes, porcupines, and even moose.
This natural park also distinguishes itself by the wide range of activities it offers. In winter, snowshoe trails, slides and ski trails are available for you to enjoy the outdoors. In warmer seasons, the river comes to life and the park transforms. You can do kayaking, hiking, fishing, biking and more. What about the difficulty level of the trails, you ask? Don’t worry! There is something for everyone, from beginners to more advanced adventurers.
To witness a beautifully diverse wildlife: Bruce Peninsula National Park
Located on the Bruce Peninsula in the heart of Lake Huron, this national park will seduce you with its breathtaking landscapes. Imagine a vast forest bordered by high cliffs rising from the turquoise waters of Georgian Bay, where you can admire exotic wildlife populated by rare reptiles and black bears.
One of a kind, the Bruce Peninsula Park offers a wide variety of activities, as well as several types of accommodations that are suitable for short and long stays. More experienced adventurers will be pleased to learn that the park offers mountaineering, mountain biking and hiking trails suitable for everyone.
To discover the backcountry: Pukaskwa National Park
Do you have more than a few days ahead and want to be dazzled by the wonders of nature? Pukaskwa National Park is perfect for those who want to combine an outdoor weekend with a full on road trip. Located near Lake Superior, on the native land of the Ojibway people, the beauty of this national park will leave you breathless. Its primary characteristic? It combines the history of the First Nations with the exploration of magnificent virgin landscapes. In this large area, you can observe black bears as well as the splendours of the diverse wildlife of the Boreal forest.
On site, several options for trails and activities are available to visitors. For example, the White River Suspension Bridge Trail (18 km) takes you over the Chigamiwinigum Falls (23 meters high).
For beginners: Buttermilk Falls State Park
You want to learn about hiking and wilderness camping? Located in New York State, about 5 hours from Montreal, Buttermilk Falls Park is just starting to gain notoriety on this side of the border.
Recognized for the beauty of its landscapes and its dozens of waterfalls, this park includes several hiking trails, natural pools, beaches as well as camping areas (with or without electricity). Its moderate trails make it the perfect outing to start the season smoothly. The most popular trail is approximately 7 kilometers long and leads to Buttermilk Falls (83 ft.).
On that note, we wish you a great outdoor season filled with beautiful discoveries!
