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Jacques-Cartier National Park protects a deep glacial valley in the Laurentian highlands north of Quebec City. Steep, forested slopes rise on both sides of the Jacques-Cartier River, which winds along the valley floor through a landscape that feels remote despite being close to the city.
The river shapes most activities. Visitors rent canoes and kayaks for calm stretches, float downstream on tubes in summer, or fish its waters. A network of hiking trails ranges from short riverside walks to climbs that reward with views down the length of the valley. Moose are commonly spotted, along with other wildlife, especially early and late in the day. Cyclists follow the valley road, and in winter the park turns to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and backcountry stays in heated huts.
The park suits families and outdoor enthusiasts looking for an easy escape from Quebec City, either for a day or several nights of camping. Grands-Jardins National Park, with its Mont du Lac des Cygnes trail, lies farther east in Charlevoix. Closer to the city, Montmorency Falls and the Huron-Wendat community of Wendake combine well with a visit, as does Old Quebec itself. Summer and early fall are the most popular times.
WiserMap travel guideJacques-Cartier National Park Quebec Glacial Valley HikesPlan a trip to Jacques-Cartier National Park near Quebec City: glacial valley, hiking, paddling, wildlife, nearby Grands-Jardins and Montmorency Falls.Read the guide
The deep glacial valley carved through the Laurentian plateau, with the Jacques-Cartier River winding between steep forested walls more than 500 meters high. The Chemin de la Vallée road follows the river through the park. Drive or cycle the road slowly and stop at the riverside picnic areas.
A tributary of the Jacques-Cartier that alternates calm pools, rapids and gravel bars, prime habitat for Atlantic salmon. A trail open to hikers and cyclists follows its banks. Walk it in late summer and look into the clear pools, where you may spot salmon resting on their way upstream.
A short walk of about 1.2 km return to the delta where the Sautauriski meets the Jacques-Cartier River, a rich area of wetlands, gravel bars and forest. It takes under half an hour. Go early in the morning or at dusk for the best chance of seeing birds, beavers or moose feeding.
The park's main visitor centre at kilometre 10 of the valley road, with information, exhibits on the valley and its wildlife, a shop and the nautical rental centre. Naturalists run talks and guided activities in summer. Check here for river conditions, shuttle times and the day's programme.
The park's signature hike, climbing steeply from the valley to two observation decks with spectacular views over the Jacques-Cartier and Sautauriski valleys. The first deck is about 5 km return and the second about 11 km. Start early, carry water, and expect a sustained climb of more than 400 meters.
A 5.4 km loop in the south sector that follows the meandering river and climbs around L'Épaule mountain, with a series of viewpoints over the valley. It takes about two hours and suits most hikers. Combine it with a paddle from the hourly rental centre at kilometre 3.
A demanding loop of about 11 km that follows the Belleau brook valley, then climbs steadily through the forest to an exceptional lookout over the Jacques-Cartier valley. Allow around four hours. Bring lunch and water, and save it for a clear day so you can enjoy the views at the top.
A long trail of about 16 km return from kilometre 30 that climbs to the park's western plateau along a stream once full of beaver colonies, ending at Mont Andante with a view over the valley gorges. It is a full-day outing for fit hikers. Start early and check the weather before you go.
Canoe, kayak and miniraft trips down the Jacques-Cartier River with shuttles from the nautical rental centre, from calm scenic sections to runs with class I to III rapids. Families can choose the miniraft from Pont-Banc. Reserve at least a day ahead and arrive 45 minutes before departure.
A relaxed 5 km float on an inflatable air tube down a calm stretch of the Jacques-Cartier River, taking about an hour with a shuttle to the start. It suits families with children over five. Wear water shoes and sunscreen, and book on hot summer days, when the afternoon departures fill up.
The valley is home to moose, which are often seen feeding in wetlands and along the river, especially at dawn and dusk. Black bears, beavers and many birds also live in the park. Drive the valley road slowly in the early morning, keep your distance and never feed any wild animal.
In winter the park keeps more than 90 km of trails for snowshoeing, backcountry skiing and winter hiking, with heated huts, yurts and chalets to rent. The snowy valley and frozen river are quiet and beautiful. Rent snowshoes at the park and check trail conditions before you set out.
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