The Joys of Winter in Charlevoix: Petite-Rivière-Saint-François
The Charlevoix region, long celebrated as a playground for hiking and nature enthusiasts, is located along the north shore of the Saint Lawrence River, east of Quebec City. Classified as a biosphere region by UNESCO in 1988, this extraordinary destination is known for its diversity, breathtaking views and magical atmosphere.
We spoke to Tourisme Charlevoix about the sections of the Trans Canada Trail in the region, as well as all the activities, attractions and must-sees on offer.
This article is the first in a four-part series devoted to this incredible region.
Remember: Always check with local trail organizations before venturing outdoors, especially during the winter!
An abundance of trails and Le Massif de Charlevoix
Photo credit: Tourisme Charlevoix, Le Massif de Charlevoix
Located four hours from Montreal and just over an hour from Quebec City, Petite-Rivière-Saint-François is the gateway to the Charlevoix region for those coming from the west.
There’s something for every outdoor enthusiast in the area, which boasts a vast boreal forest and striking scenery, including the Le Massif de Charlevoix mountain resort.
Sections of the Trans Canada Trail in the area
Photo credit: Tourisme Charlevoix, Joannie Fillion
Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix
Ideal for: Hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
This trail network spans 70 kilometres and is divided into two large, interconnected sections with both short- and long-distance trail options: Saint-Tite-des-Caps and Charlevoix (Massif).
The Saint-Tite-des-Caps section is a dream for snowshoeing enthusiasts! Its seven trails range in length from 4 to 12.8 kilometres and feature stunning views of the Saint – Lawrence River and the Montmagny Islands.
The Charlevoix (Massif) section also has great snowshoeing options, including Cap à l’Abattis, La Grande-Vue and Lac Gauthier. Each of these trails has a hut installed along its route.
Note: Cross-country skiing trails are only accessible via the Charlevoix entrance in the Le Massif section.
Sentier Gabrielle-Roy-Est
Ideal for: Hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
This trail leads to the summit of Mont Gabrielle-Roy and offers spectacular 360-degree views of the region.
Sentier Louise-Gasnier
Ideal for: Hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
Sentier Louise-Gasnier links Sentier Gabrielle-Roy-Ouest and Sentier Gabrielle-Roy-Est and has two magnificent suspension bridges over the Du Sault River. Learn more about this trail!
Sentier Gabrielle-Roy-Ouest
Ideal for: Hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
Sentier Gabrielle-Roy-Ouest is a narrow and linear natural trail. It features wooden boardwalks and multiple viewpoints along the route.
Must-sees in the Petite-Rivière-Saint-François area
Photo credit: Tourisme Charlevoix, André-Olivier Lyra
Located near Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix, Le Massif de Charlevoix is home to Canada’s highest vertical drop east of the Rocky Mountains.
Also nearby is Club Med Quebec Charlevoix, offering an all-inclusive resort experience. Get away from the everyday while savouring exquisite food and soaking in extraordinary views of the Saint– Lawrence River and surrounding area.
Finally, the Coopérative de solidarité L’Affluent, located near Sentier Gabrielle-Roy-Ouest, provides ecotourism services and products to visitors. Services include a youth hostel, camping sites, a café, a sugar shack, and cultural and outdoor activities.
In the weeks to come, we’ll be featuring trails and experiences from other parts of the Charlevoix region. Coming soon: The nature, gastronomy and art of Baie-Saint-Paul, a charming town just 15 minutes from Petite-Rivière-Saint-François!
Explore Petite-Rivière-Saint-François on our interactive web map.
Explore the Tourisme Charlevoix site to help plan your trip to the region.
Feature photo credit: Tourisme Charlevoix, Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix
