Monts-Valin National Park Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Monts-Valin National Park in Quebec, Canada with this comprehensive travel guide. Read on for hiking and biking routes, cultural attractions, natural wonders, and more.


Introduction to Monts-Valin National Park

Monts-Valin National Park is a 153 square kilometer park located in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec, Canada. The park is named after its prominent mountain range, the Monts-Valin, which features over 700 meters of elevation. This park is a paradise for nature lovers, with its beautiful landscapes, rugged terrain, and numerous outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, fishing, and camping in this breathtaking park. There are also several museums, historical sites, and cultural experiences for those interested in the local history and traditions.

List of Places to Visit in Monts-Valin National Park

Here is a list of the must-visit places in Monts-Valin National Park:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Centre plein air Bec-Scie: This museum offers exhibits and activities about the local forestry and logging industry, including guided tours, hiking trails, and outdoor activities.
  • Musée de la Petite Maison Blanche: This museum is a historic site that recounts the tragic events of the 1996 Saguenay flood. Visitors can learn about the disaster’s impact on the region and the resilience of the residents.
  • Historic Village of Val-Jalbert: This is a restored 1920s village that provides a glimpse into the lives of the area’s early 20th-century residents. The village site includes a sawmill, pulp mill, and general store.

Natural Attractions of Monts-Valin National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sapinière-de-la-Rivière-Blanche: This forest trail is surrounded by tall spruce, fir, and pine trees. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful hike on this easy trail, and catch glimpses of the local wildlife and birds.
  • Chute à l’Ours: This 74-meter waterfall is a stunning sight, especially during the spring thaw.
  • Parcours des 21: This challenging trail is a 21 km loop around Mount Valin. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views along the way and see the park’s stunning landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Monts-Valin National Park

Monts-Valin National Park offers a variety of hiking and biking options for visitors of all skill levels. The park features over 100 km of trails that take visitors through forests, rivers, and up to mountain peaks. Here are some of the popular routes:

  • Les Sommets: This is a 14 km trail that reaches the top of Mont Vallier. It offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • La Pichard: This is a 16 km trail that takes visitors around a chain of lakes, making it ideal for fishing enthusiasts.
  • Sentier des Loups: This is a 5 km trail that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the valley below. It’s suitable for all skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Monts-Valin National Park: Activities and Tours

Monts-Valin National Park offers a range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular options:

  • Camping: Visitors can choose from five camping sites within the park, each with its unique advantages.
  • Snowshoeing: In the winter months, visitors can explore the park on snowshoes, which provides a unique perspective of the park’s landscapes.
  • Fishing: The park’s many lakes and rivers offer visitors a chance to catch a variety of fish, including brook trout, rainbow trout, and landlocked salmon.
  • Horse riding: The park collaborates with local horse riding companies to provide visitors with a unique perspective of the park’s landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Monts-Valin National Park

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Monts-Valin National Park:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Musée de la Petite Maison Blanche
2 Hike the Sentier des Loups
3 Go fishing in the park’s lakes
4 Explore the Historic Village of Val-Jalbert
5 Snowshoe through the park’s beautiful winter landscapes
6 Mountain bike on the Les Sommets trail
7 Relax and enjoy the scenery at one of the park’s camping sites

Food and Drink Scene of Monts-Valin National Park

The area surrounding Monts-Valin National Park is known for its delicious cuisine and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tourtière: This savory meat pie is a staple in Quebec cuisine and is made with ground pork, beef, or veal.
  • Poutine: This classic dish is made with french fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
  • Cretons: This spread is made from pork and fat and is typically served on toast or crackers.

Local Beverages

  • Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean beer: This region has a thriving craft beer scene, and visitors must try the local brews.
  • Ice Cider: This sweet dessert wine is made from apples that are left to freeze on the tree.

Where to Stay in Monts-Valin National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Monts-Valin National Park offers five camping sites for visitors who want to stay close to nature and enjoy the serenity of the park. Visitors can choose from rustic camping, tent camping, or RV camping options.

For those who prefer more comfortable accommodations, there are several hotels, hostels, and guesthouses located in nearby towns, such as Chicoutimi and Alma. Visitors can choose from various options, including budget-friendly hostels to luxury lodges.

What to Buy in Monts-Valin National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Monts-Valin National Park and its surrounding areas have several local products, including maple syrup, honey, and local crafts. Visitors can purchase these items at gift shops within the park or the local markets in nearby towns.

Local Culture and Customs of Monts-Valin National Park

Monts-Valin National Park is rich in culture and traditions. Visitors should expect friendly and hospitable locals who are proud of their heritage. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the region’s history and culture through visiting museums and attending cultural events.

Best Time to Visit Monts-Valin National Park

Monts-Valin National Park is open year-round, and each season has its unique sights and experiences. Winter sports enthusiasts should visit between December and April, and hiking and camping enthusiasts should head there from May to October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Monts-Valin National Park

Do:

  • Respect the park’s wildlife and natural environment.
  • Follow park regulations, including campsite guidelines and fire restrictions.
  • Pack out all trash and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

Don’t:

  • Bring pets into the park, as they can disturb the wildlife and natural habitats.
  • Trespass onto private property.
  • Litter or disturb the environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Monts-Valin National Park

Visitors should follow these safety tips to have a safe and enjoyable visit to Monts-Valin National Park:

  • Be aware of the potential hazards, including wild animals and challenging terrain.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and bring proper gear and equipment.
  • Let someone know your itinerary and plans before you venture into the park.

Health in Monts-Valin National Park

There are no medical facilities within Monts-Valin National Park. Visitors are advised to bring a first-aid kit and any prescription medications they may need. Visitors should also stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun and biting insects.

Getting to Monts-Valin National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Monts-Valin National Park is accessible by car from most parts of Quebec. There are also bus and shuttle services available from nearby cities, including Chicoutimi and Alma.

Airports Near Monts-Valin National Park

  • Saguenay-Bagotville Airport: This airport is located just 30 km from the park’s entrance and offers several flights daily from Montreal and Quebec City.

Bus Stations Near Monts-Valin National Park

  • RTC: This bus company serves Quebec City and the surrounding area, and offers connections to Chicoutimi and Alma.
  • Intercar: This bus company serves Montreal and Quebec City and offers connections to Chicoutimi and Alma.

How to Get Around in Monts-Valin National Park

The park features a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and snowshoeing. Visitors can also camp within the park, allowing them to explore the park’s many attractions at their own pace. For those who prefer a guided tour, there are several tour companies that offer hiking, biking, and horseback riding tours of the park.

Where to Go Next from Monts-Valin National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Monts-Valin National Park is located in the heart of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region, which offers many other attractions. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Tadoussac: This charming village is just a few hours’ drive from Monts-Valin National Park and offers whale watching tours and beautiful coastal landscapes.
  • Parc National des Monts-Valin: This park is located near Monts-Valin National Park and offers hiking and camping opportunities for visitors.
  • Musée du Fjord: This museum is located in nearby Saguenay and offers exhibits about the region’s geology and ecology.

Conclusion

Monts-Valin National Park offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of Quebec’s landscape. With its stunning mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, and almost untouched forests, Monts-Valin National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities, as well as learn about the region’s history and culture. Take a trip to Monts-Valin National Park and experience the beauty and wonder of Quebec’s forests and mountains.