11 January 2022

Challenge yourself to try something new this fall!

Here are 5 ways to enjoy the biggest playground in Québec.

1. Discover stunning vistas in the mountains

If you’re looking for accessible trails, the Parc du Mont-Wright in Stoneham-et-Tewkesbury is ideal. This park is home to one of the last remaining examples of old-growth forest in eastern Québec. With 6.5 km of trails, this mountain is a great spot to escape into the forest and enjoy stunning natural attractions while staying near Québec City. It’s a must for families!

Of course, the incredible Jacques-Cartier National Park is also a must. With more than 100 km of trails to choose from, hikers of all stripes will be sure to find exactly the right spot to enjoy some leaf peeping. The Les Loups trail (11 km round trip) offers a striking look over the Laurentian Massif’s valleys, carved by the Jacques-Cartier and Sautauriski rivers. The L’Éperon trail (a 5.4 km loop) and the Le Scotora trail are equally stunning hikes!

For more experienced hikers, the Boucle trail at the Station touristique Stoneham offers a 9.5 km hike with 5 amazing lookouts.

2. Take in the fresh air while learning to ride a mountain bike

Taking in the fall colours: what better reason to discover the region by bike? The sites are open to mountain bikes until November, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy them!

Are you looking to learn or improve your technique? Head to Empire 47! They offer fun and affordable classes for everyone. They also have trails for all levels and if the biking doesn’t leave you breathless, the view certainly will.

In Lac-Beauport, you’ll find the Sentiers du Moulin, which is great for more experienced mountain bikers and anyone who’s curious about the new pump track!

Why not enjoy this increasingly popular sport at your own pace, in a uniquely gorgeous setting?

3. Rack up the road biking kilometres before winter

Do you feel like the biking season is never long enough? You can keep it going on the Jacques-Cartier/Portneuf cycling path, which offers a safe, peaceful place to enjoy the surrounding forest. It’s a haven for anyone who loves wide open spaces and natural beauty. Discover 68 km of well-maintained gravel roads that connect to the Corridor des Cheminots.

4. Unwind at a spa in the forest before facing the fall madness 

Perched on the banks of the majestic Rivière Jacques-Cartier, enjoy an unparalleled experience at Le Nordique Spa Stoneham.
From hot tubs to wet and dry saunas, you’ll find everything you need to get some R&R in the forest while enjoying modern facilities.

La Jacques-Cartier is home to two other spas that go very well with a hotel stay.

The Manoir du Lac Delage spa, located on the lakefront as its name suggests, has something for everyone with its romantic and wellness packages.

Aroma Spa at the Hôtel Valcartier is the perfect place to unwind and re-centre thanks to its full thermal experience and massage services. You can also extend your “me time” with a night at the hotel.

5. Make the most of your trip, whether you’re travelling with your partner or your friends

La Jacques-Cartier is only 20 minutes from Québec City, so it’s an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.

For couples, there are a few options for a refreshing weekend away. If you’d like to try sleeping in a yurt, the Centre de l’Hêtre and the Centre Castor are the places to be! Looking for something all-inclusive instead? The Auberge Duchesnay and Entourage sur-le-Lac have it all: meals, comfortable rooms, and stunning scenery.

And if you’re planning a fun weekend with friends, head to Stoneham. Its Chalets Alpins and Hôtel Stoneham are both great choices for accommodation. You’ll also love the municipality’s atmosphere, activities, and restaurants. Don’t wait until everything’s full—it’s important to have fun together as often as possible!

More recommended reading:

Top 5 activities to try at least once