ZEC Wessonneau Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, buy, and where to stay in ZEC Wessonneau, Quebec. Explore the diverse cultural and natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to ZEC Wessonneau

Located in the La Tuque Region, in Mauricie, Central Quebec, Canada, ZEC Wessonneau is a public wildlife reserve that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore its vast wilderness and natural beauty. Spanning over 1300 square kilometres, ZEC Wessonneau boasts numerous rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This comprehensive tour guide will help you discover the best things to do, see, eat, buy, and where to stay in ZEC Wessonneau and nearby destinations.

List of Places to Visit in ZEC Wessonneau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Collection J.-Armand Bombardier: A museum dedicated to the life and work of Joseph-Armand Bombardier, inventor of the snowmobile and founder of Bombardier Inc.
  • Forestry Interpretation Centre: An educational centre that documents the history of forestry in Quebec, with numerous exhibits and displays.
  • Sorel-Tracy Museum of Contemporary Art: A contemporary art museum that features local and international art exhibitions.

Natural Attractions of ZEC Wessonneau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Marmette: A picturesque lake that is perfect for fishing and canoeing.
  • Chutes De La Petite Riviere Bostonnais: A spectacular series of waterfalls and rapids that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
  • Parc Des Pionniers: A popular park that boasts several hiking trails, picnic areas, and a sandy beach.
  • ZEC Wessonneau Wildlife Reserve: Offers excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of ZEC Wessonneau

  • Sentier Des Chutes: A scenic trail that leads visitors through several waterfalls and rapids, offering stunning views of the surrounding nature.
  • Sentiers Des Sommets: A challenging hiking trail that takes hikers through several mountain peaks, offering panoramic views of the region.
  • Circuit Des Lacs: A popular trail that takes hikers through numerous lakes, offering opportunities for swimming and fishing.

Best Things to Do in ZEC Wessonneau: Activities and Tours

  • Hiking and Camping: ZEC Wessonneau boasts numerous hiking trails and campsites, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Fishing and Hunting: The wildlife reserve offers excellent opportunities for fishing and hunting, with abundant fish and game.
  • Canoeing and Kayaking: The numerous lakes and rivers make ZEC Wessonneau a perfect destination for canoeing and kayaking.
  • Snowmobiling and Cross-Country Skiing: During winters, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are popular activities in the reserve.

Week-Long Itinerary for ZEC Wessonneau

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive, check into a hotel or campground
Day 2 Explore Collection J.-Armand Bombardier, visit the Forestry Interpretation Centre
Day 3 Hike the Sentier Des Chutes trail, visit the Chutes De La Petite Riviere Bostonnais
Day 4 Visit the Sorel-Tracy Museum of Contemporary Art, explore Parc Des Pionniers
Day 5 Go fishing or hunting in the wildlife reserve, enjoy a picnic
Day 6 Canoe or kayak on Lake Marmette, hike the Circuit Des Lacs trail
Day 7 Snowmobile or cross-country ski in the reserve, depart

Food and Drink Scene of ZEC Wessonneau

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, a Quebecois specialty.
  • Tourtiere: A meat pie filled with pork, beef, or game, and seasoned with spices such as clove and cinnamon.
  • Tarte au sucre: A maple sugar pie, a Quebecois dessert specialty.

Local Beverages

  • Ice Cider: A sweet dessert wine made from apples harvested in winter, a Quebecois specialty.
  • Microbreweries: Quebec has numerous microbreweries that produce locally brewed beers, such as Unibroue and Brasserie Dunham.

Where to Stay in ZEC Wessonneau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Auberge Lac-Édouard: A rustic inn that offers comfortable accommodation and fine dining.
  • Camping Les Lacs-À-Jim: A popular campground that offers a variety of amenities and recreational activities.
  • Domaine De La Baie: A luxurious resort that offers spa treatments, fine dining, and outdoor activities.

What to Buy in ZEC Wessonneau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Maple Syrup: Quebec is famous for its maple syrup, which makes a delicious souvenir to bring home.
  • Sarrasin Flour: A gluten-free flour made from buckwheat, a Quebecois specialty.
  • Artisanal Crafts: Quebec has numerous artisans that produce handmade crafts such as wood carvings, pottery, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of ZEC Wessonneau

  • French is the dominant language spoken in Quebec, although English is also widely spoken.
  • Quebecois culture is influenced by French and Indigenous Peoples, resulting in a unique blend of music, literature, and cuisine.
  • Quebecois are known for their love of sports, such as ice hockey, and their national pride.

Best Time to Visit ZEC Wessonneau

The best time to visit ZEC Wessonneau is during summers (June to August), when the weather is sunny and warm, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Winters (December to February) can be extremely cold, making it difficult to explore the wilderness. However, winter sports such as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are popular during winters.

Do’s and Don’ts of ZEC Wessonneau

Do:

  • Respect the wildlife and environment, and practice leave-no-trace principles.
  • Wear proper hiking or camping gear, and dress in layers to prepare for changes in weather.
  • Follow the fishing and hunting regulations, and obtain the necessary permits and licenses.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb the wildlife, and don’t attempt to feed wild animals.
  • Ignore the weather forecasts and warnings, and don’t venture into the wilderness unprepared.
  • Trespass or hunt without the necessary permits and licenses.

Safety and Health

Safety in ZEC Wessonneau

  • Practice safety measures such as wearing a life jacket while canoeing or kayaking, and wearing a helmet while cycling or snowmobiling.
  • Be aware of the hunting seasons and avoid areas where hunting is permitted.
  • Be prepared for changes in weather and terrain, and have a first-aid kit.

Health in ZEC Wessonneau

  • Bring insect repellent and medication for insect bites and stings.
  • Be aware of the risks of hypothermia and frostbite during winters, and dress in layers to stay warm.
  • Ensure you have the necessary medication and health insurance coverage, and carry a first-aid kit.

Getting to ZEC Wessonneau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near ZEC Wessonneau

  • Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport: The nearest international airport, around 3 hours drive from ZEC Wessonneau.
  • Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport: The busiest airport in Quebec, around 4 hours drive from ZEC Wessonneau.

Bus Stations Near ZEC Wessonneau

  • Autobus Maheux: Offers bus services from various locations in Quebec to La Tuque, around 30 minutes drive from ZEC Wessonneau.

Other Options

  • Driving: ZEC Wessonneau is easily accessible by car, with several highways leading to La Tuque.
  • Car rental: Several car rental companies operate in Quebec City and Montreal, offering a convenient way to explore the region at your own pace.
  • Taxi or shuttle: Local taxi or shuttle services are available in La Tuque and nearby areas.

How to Get Around in ZEC Wessonneau

The best way to get around in ZEC Wessonneau is by car, as the reserve is vast and the attractions are spread out. However, bicycles and kayaks are also popular means of transport for certain activities such as cycling or canoeing.

Where to Go Next from ZEC Wessonneau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • La Mauricie National Park: A stunning park that offers hiking trails, lakes, and camping areas, around 2 hours drive from ZEC Wessonneau.
  • Quebec City: One of the oldest and most charming cities in North America, with numerous historical attractions, museums, and dining options, around 3 hours drive from ZEC Wessonneau.
  • Montreal: A vibrant and multicultural city, with numerous attractions such as museums, galleries, and shopping districts, around 4 hours drive from ZEC Wessonneau.

Conclusion

ZEC Wessonneau is a hidden gem located in the La Tuque Region, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the beautiful wilderness and natural attractions of Quebec. From hiking and camping to fishing and hunting, ZEC Wessonneau offers something for everyone. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your next adventure to ZEC Wessonneau and nearby destinations, and experience the unique culture, cuisine, and nature of Quebec.