Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park in Central Quebec, including a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food & drink scene, and transportation options.


Introduction to Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie, also known as the High Gorges of the Malbaie River, is a stunning national park located in Charlevoix, Quebec, Canada. It is known for its steep cliffs and deep valleys, making it a beautiful destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is also listed as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, due to its unique flora and fauna, including black bears, beavers, and bald eagles.

List of Places to Visit in Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

While Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park is primarily a destination for nature lovers, there are a few cultural attractions worth visiting. The Interpretation Centre is a great place to start, as it offers information on the park’s history, ecology, and geology. There are also a few historic sites within the park, including the Saint-Siméon church, which dates back to the 19th century.

Natural Attractions of Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

One of the main draws of Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park is its stunning nature. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, canoeing, and kayaking in the park. The park’s most famous trail is the Acropole des Draveurs, which is a challenging 8.5 km hike that offers beautiful views of the Malbaie River and surrounding mountains. Other popular trails include Les Érables and Les Hautes-Gorges, which are both shorter and less challenging.

For those who prefer to take in the scenery from the water, the park offers canoe and kayak rentals. The Malbaie River is a popular spot for paddling, as it offers calm waters and stunning views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

Hiking and biking are popular activities in Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park. The park has over 30 km of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Some of the most popular trails include:

  • Acropole des Draveurs
  • Les Érables
  • Les Hautes-Gorges
  • La Chute
  • Les Loups

Biking is also a great way to explore the park, with several scenic routes available. The park’s most popular biking trail is the Le Vallon, which is a 10 km trail that follows the Malbaie River.

Best Things to Do in Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Camping: The park offers several campgrounds, including two that are accessible only by canoe or kayak.
  • Wildlife Watching: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, beavers, and bald eagles.
  • Stargazing: The park has minimal light pollution, making it a great spot for stargazing.
  • Canoeing and Kayaking: The Malbaie River is a popular spot for paddling, with calm waters and stunning views.
  • Guided Tours: The park offers several guided tours, including a wildlife watching tour and a guided hike of the Acropole des Draveurs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

Day 1: Arrive in the park and set up camp at one of the campgrounds. Day 2: Hike the Acropole des Draveurs trail. Day 3: Explore the park’s waterways by canoe or kayak. Day 4: Take a guided wildlife watching tour. Day 5: Bike the Le Vallon trail. Day 6: Relax at the campsite and stargaze at night. Day 7: Depart from the park.

Food and Drink Scene of Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

Must-Try Dishes

Charlevoix is known for its local cuisine, with several restaurants in the region offering delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes in the area include:

  • Charlevoix cheese
  • Duck confit poutine
  • Tourtière

Local Beverages

The region is also known for its local beverages, including microbrews and ice cider. Some of the best spots to sample these drinks include:

  • Microbrasserie Charlevoix
  • Cidrerie et Vergers Pedneault

Where to Stay in Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park offers several camping options, including two campgrounds that are accessible only by canoe or kayak. There are also a few lodges and cabins available for rent within the park. Outside of the park, there are several hotels and guesthouses in nearby towns, including Saint-Siméon and La Malbaie.

What to Buy in Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are several local products to bring home as souvenirs from Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park, including:

  • Charlevoix cheese
  • Ice cider
  • Handmade crafts from local artisans

Local Culture and Customs of Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park is located in the French-speaking region of Quebec, so it’s important to know a few local customs and phrases. It’s also important to respect the park’s wildlife and natural environment.

Best Time to Visit Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June-September), when temperatures are mild and the weather is generally pleasant. Fall is also a popular time to visit, as the changing leaves make for stunning scenery.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

Do:

  • Respect the wildlife and natural environment.
  • Follow Leave No Trace principles.
  • Know the park’s rules and regulations.

Don’t:

  • Feed the wildlife.
  • Remove plants or rocks from the park.
  • Bring pets on the trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

While Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park is generally safe, it’s important to take a few precautions:

  • Carry a map and know the park’s trails well.
  • Check the weather before heading out.
  • Be aware of wildlife in the area.

Health in Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

In general, the park is a safe place to visit, health-wise. However, it’s important to carry any necessary medications and follow basic hygiene practices.

Getting to Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

The nearest airports to the park are Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) and Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL). Both airports offer car rental options.

Bus Stations Near Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

There are several bus stations in nearby towns, including Saint-Siméon and La Malbaie.

Other Options

There are several shuttle services available that can transport visitors to and from the park.

How to Get Around in Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park

The best way to get around in Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park is by foot or by canoe/kayak. Biking is also an option, with several scenic routes available.

Where to Go Next from Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations worth exploring after a visit to Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park, including:

  • Parc national des Grands-Jardins
  • Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park
  • Quebec City

Conclusion

Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park is a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With plenty of outdoor activities, beautiful scenery, and local cuisine to enjoy, it’s no wonder why it’s a popular destination in Quebec.