The Joys of Winter in Charlevoix: the Mountain Sector
We’re continuing our deep dive into the Charlevoix region of Quebec with the Mountain Sector, site of the famed Traversée de Charlevoix and much more. Avid hikers: the mountains are calling!
Long celebrated as a playground for hiking and nature enthusiasts, Charlevoix 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 incredible area is known for its breathtaking natural wonders and beautiful landscapes.
We spoke with Tourisme Charlevoix about the sections of the Trans Canada Trail in the region and what activities, attractions and must-sees are on offer.
This article is the third in a four-part series devoted to this incredible region.
Remember: Always check with local trail organizations before venturing outdoors, especially during the winter!
Epic hikes and provincial parks in the Mountain Sector
Photo credit: Tourisme Charlevoix
The spectacular topography of the Mountain Sector is due to a meteorite that fell in the area more than 400 million years ago. Today, the region is home to not one but two exceptional parks: Parc national des Grands-Jardins and Parc national des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie. Essentially, the area is a year-round playground for anyone who loves hiking.
Trans Canada Trail sections in the area
Photo credit: Tourisme Charlevoix, André-Olivier Lyra
La Traversée de Charlevoix
Ideal for: Hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
The Traversée de Charlevoix is a popular section of the Trans Canada Trail with avid hikers and winter sports enthusiasts, and for good reason! You’ll find several day hikes and options for longer excursions, offering a variety of routes and difficulty levels. All the huts on the route have been recently renovated. Note that many of the hikes on La Traversée de Charlevoix require an advanced level of experience.
In the winter, La Traversée de Charlevoix is best explored on skis. Nordic skis are recommended. Don’t forget to check the weather conditions before setting off and bring appropriate gear.
Sentier Des Pointes
Ideal for: Hiking, snowshoeing
This Trail section links with the Sentier Les Florent at the edge of the city of Saint-Urbain. It offers a lovely rural and forested route.
Sentier de la Haute du Gouffre
Ideal for: Hiking, snowshoeing
Great news! The Sentier de la Haute du Gouffre recently joined the Trans Canada Trail system! This Trail section follows the Gouffre River for approximately 12 kilometres.
Must-sees in the Mountain Sector of Charlevoix
Photo credit: Tourisme Charlevoix, 4000 Hikes
A must-visit during the winter season in Charlevoix is the Vallée des Glaces in the Parc national des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie, where you’ll find gorgeous scenery, with 11 marked trails, totalling 72 kilometres, to discover! Plus, new activity alert: try out electric fat-tire cycling!
If you’re planning a hike on Sentier Les Florent or Sentier Des Pointes, stop to check out Canada’s largest emu farm, the Centre de l’Émeu de Charlevoix! And why not stop at Viandes Bio de Charlevoix to pick up some delicious charcuterie for your hike?
Stay tuned for our final article in the series on trails and experiences in different parts of Charlevoix. Up next: Saint-Siméon and Baie Sainte-Catherine!
Check out our articles on Petite-Rivière-Saint-François and Baie-Saint-Paul.
Explore the Mountain Sector of Charlevoix on our interactive map.
Discover other ideas for your stay in the region thanks to Tourisme Charlevoix!
Feature photo credit: Tourisme Charlevoix
