Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier

Paddling Down the River

What a great way to discover the beautiful landscapes of the Jacques-Cartier valley! With sections of rapids and calmer waters, Rivière Jacques-Cartier leaves no one indifferent. Our vast choice of watercraft (canoe, recreational kayak, mini-raft, inflatable canoe and inner tube) and circuits gives both experienced and novice paddlers a chance to see the park from a different angle!

Equipment rental period: May 14 to October 11, 2010

Information on shuttle routes and schedules

Advice for a day on the river

A Trip through Calm Waters

Families and couples will love paddling through a section of the river that has no rapids. Please note that the end of the canoe circuit, located at km 3, is the only place where the park offers watercraft rental (canoe/kayak) to adults accompanied by children under the age of 5.

Equipment rental period: June 24 to August 29, 2010, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Over 100 km of hiking trails will show you the park's most scenic landscapes. As you walk by a turbulent river or through a yellow birch stand, the trail may open out on to an exceptional view.

Period: May 14 to October 24, 2010

Table of trails

Three mountain bike trails and two roads will show you the park's splendours. You have at your disposal over 122 km of trails, ranging in level from easy to very difficult.

Period: May 14 to October 24, 2010

Table of trails

To relive the ambiance of fishing camps from the early 20th century, reserve a fishing stay with accommodations. Best pick: the Devlin cabins (5) or the renowned Lac à l'Épaule Lodge! They sleep 2 to 14 people and offer a very attractive fishing plan.

Period: May 21 to September 6, 2010  (with accommodations)

You can fish for speckled trout on Rivière Jacques-Cartier and on some lakes in the l'Épaule, Jumeau and Sautauriski sectors. Occasionally, you might catch a parr (young salmon). Throw it back in the water. Salmon fishing is prohibited in the park. A right of access for day fishing and a fishing licence are mandatory.

Period: May 28 to September 12, 2010 or until the annual catch quota is filled.

Whether you're leaving from Camp Mercier or the Vallée sector, you'll be charmed by the snow-cloaked forest and the peaceful scenes. Ski to the gurgling of a river and admire the white snow on surrounding highlands. For short runs or longer treks, nearly 55 km of backcountry ski trails are available. After a day outdoors, what could be better than curling up by a warm fireplace in one of our cabins or rustic shelters? For the less risk-averse, the winter campground offers the ultimate experience.

Period: December 11, 2009 to March 21, 2010

Baggage transport service

Long circuit suggestions

Walk along Rivière Jacques-Cartier and immerse yourself in its winter atmosphere. The trail is 13-km long and groomed by snowmobile. You'll see how the valley looks under a blanket of snow.

Period: December 11, 2009 to March 21, 2010

The park has a network of 5 trails, for a total of 20 km. One must-see is the Éperon trail (loop C), 3 km from the park entrance, with its breathtaking views of the Jacques-Cartier valley.

Period: December 11, 2009 to March 21, 2010

Baggage transport service

Table of trails

A place for conservation and education, Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier is a laboratory in a natural setting. Come to class with our dedicated park wardens or welcome them to your school! The beauty, integrity, and cultural/historical characteristics of this territory have inspired six recreational/educational activities. Aimed at young people in elementary or high school, these activities will help them get in touch with their environment, make them understand its fragility, and take them through a memorable real-world experience ...

Consult the brochure Explore. Discover. Learn (in French only) (pdf: 1.16 MB)

Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier is home to Lac-à-l'Épaule Lodge, from which comes the expression faire son lac-à-l'épaule. In Québec, this expression means to hold a meeting behind closed doors, away from curious outsiders. Come and hold your own meeting in this enchanting site.