The Jacques-Cartier National Park is a grandiose territory you can’t miss that will amuse families, challenge athletes, and dazzle every visitor.
This vast mountainous plateau cut by deep valleys will enchant you. Jacques-Cartier National Park is home to one of the most beautiful glacial valleys in Québec, the spectacular Jacques-Cartier Valley. A sometimes calm, sometimes turbulent river meanders through a 550-metre-deep channel. On its high plateaus, the coniferous forest dominates while the deciduous trees settle at the bottom of the deep valleys. It’s an inspiring and peaceful natural environment.
There are many options on site: hiking, skiing, cycling, discovery activities, events, camping, chalets, etc.
Snowshoeing
Parc-National Road is accessible by vehicle up to the Discovery and Visitors Centre (km 10). There are three options for parking: the toll kiosk (km 0), the L’Éperon parking lot (km 3) or the Discovery and Visitors Centre parking lot (km 10).
The park has a network of 12 snowshoe trails totaling nearly 84 km. Take advantage of the opening of the Discovery and Visitors Centre to warm up or enjoy a good soup. To grab a bite to eat or warm up once you’re out on the trails, four shelters with wood stoves can accommodate you. The park offers snowshoe rentals (free for children).
Hok Skiing
The Hok ski is a versatile piece of equipment that falls between cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The ski’s sole is partially covered with a skin that allows grip while climbing and is equipped with a universal binding that allows the use of several types of boots. It’s very easy to handle and is perfect for the uninitiated. You can move more quickly in snowfields than you can with snowshoes.
Ski touring
This winter, there are several possibilities for Nordic skiing: the Chemin de la Vallée (between km 10 and km 33), the Draveur Sud, the Rivière-Sautauriski, the Rivière-à-l’Epaule and the Incursion trails. Remember, Nordic skiing is practiced on trails that are not tracked or marked.
Long-distance routes
Have you ever had the chance to hear your skis glide smoothly over fresh, untouched snow in the early morning? You can experience this in the park by walking the 55 km circuit of Nordic ski trails. Although a demanding physical effort, this 2-night and 3-day trip remains a must during the winter in Québec City.
Fatbiking
These bikes with oversized tires, known as fatbikes, have ideal traction on snowy surfaces. More than 20 km of trails are available between the Discovery and Visitors Centre and the Pont-Banc Bridge to practice this activity. Fatbike rentals are available at the park. New! Electric fatbike rentals are also now available.
Check the park’s website for all the options during your stay or excursion.