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Bic National Park lies on the south shore of the St. Lawrence just west of Rimouski, protecting a jagged coastline of capes, coves, islands and salt marshes. Rocky headlands rise abruptly from the tidal flats, and the mix of seashore, forest and marsh gives this relatively small park great variety. It is celebrated for its sunsets over the river.
Visitors usually begin at the interpretive centre before heading out on foot or by bike. The climb to Pic Champlain is the park's classic hike, ending at a summit with sweeping views over bays and islands. Seals are often seen resting on the rocks at low tide, especially around Cap-à-l'Orignal. Lower trails cross the Pointe-au-Spruce salt marsh and follow the shore toward Anse à l'Orignal along the Chemin du Nord, while the rugged Citadelle and the banks of the Rivière du Sud-Ouest add quieter options. Offshore, Île du Bic appears in records going back to the early French voyages.
The park suits families, birders and walkers who prefer moderate trails to long expeditions. Cycling paths make it easy to cover ground without a car. Summer and early fall are best, with mild days and peak wildlife activity. Rimouski is close for services.
WiserMap travel guideBic National Park Quebec Seals and St Lawrence SunsetsPlan a visit to Bic National Park near Rimouski: seal watching, Pic Champlain, salt marshes, coastal trails, history and where to stay on the St. Lawrence.Read the guide
The highest summit in Bic National Park, reached by a road and short trail or by a longer hike, with a wide view over the coves, islands and capes of the St. Lawrence. Sunsets here are famous and draw a crowd on summer evenings. Bring a jacket, as wind on the top can be cold even in July.
The park's main discovery and service centre, set in an old farmhouse near the Rivière du Sud-Ouest sector. Exhibits explain the coastal landscape, tides and wildlife, and staff give trail advice and tide times. Stop here first to get a map and check the day's guided activities and naturalist talks.
A rocky cape reaching into the St. Lawrence, with coastal trails, small coves and tide pools to explore at low tide. Parts of the route can only be passed when the tide is out, so read the tide tables before you set off. It is one of the best walks in the park for sea views and birds.
The river that crosses the park and reaches the sea through a wide estuary, with a campground, picnic areas and the cycling path that links the park sectors. Herons and ducks feed in the marsh at low tide. Rent a bike at the park to ride the flat path along the river and coast.
The largest island off the Bic coast, visible from many park lookouts, with forested slopes rising from the water. Early European navigators used the Bic islands as landmarks on the river route to Quebec. You view it from shore or by sea kayak; ask at the park about guided paddles.
A wide, shallow bay inside the park with salt marsh, mudflats and a curving shoreline that changes dramatically with the tide. It is a calm place for birdwatching and photography, especially in the evening light. Keep to the marked paths, since the marsh is fragile and soft at low tide.
An easy walk along the Chemin du Nord to the sheltered Anse à l'Orignal, a cove with pebble beaches and calm water framed by wooded headlands. It suits families and beginners, and the cove is a good picnic stop. Go early or late in the day for softer light and fewer people.
A trail to La Citadelle, a rocky outcrop near the shore where you can look over the bay and the islands of Bic. The walk passes forest and meadows, and seals are often seen on the rocks below. It is moderate and short enough for a morning outing; wear good shoes, as the rock can be slippery.
A point in the park where harbour seals and grey seals haul out on the rocks at low tide, and one of the most reliable places to see them in Quebec. Viewing areas keep a respectful distance. Bring binoculars and check the tide tables, as the seals are most visible around low tide.
The village next to the park, now part of Rimouski, with a church, old houses, a small harbour, restaurants and a summer theatre. It makes a pleasant base for meals and supplies after a day of hiking. Walk to the wharf at sunset for views across the bay to the park's capes.
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