18 February, 2026

Naomie’s Trans Canada Trail: Walking Charlevoix as a Family

A person sitting on a rock with a baby in a backpack on their back. They are looking at the mountain and valley view of evergreen trees.

Our adventure on the Sentier des Caps and the Traversée de Charlevoix 

Written by Naomie Veillette 

I think many outdoor enthusiasts will agree that Charlevoix is one of Quebec’s most beautiful natural playgrounds. It’s a place I love to visit with my family, because it’s so accessible, yet filled with soaring mountains and beautiful views! Today, we’re taking a closer look at two sections of the Trans Canada Trail in this region: the Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix and the Traversée de Charlevoix. I hope to show you that it’s possible to hike these trails as a family, without having to do the whole long hike! 

 Left: a mom and two kids smiling at the camera. Right: a mom with a baby on her shoulders smiling at the top of a summit.

Photo credit: Naomie Veillette

The Sentier des Caps: Your adventure starts here 

Located in the heart of Charlevoix, the Sentier des Caps is a network of some 70 kilometres of trails that wind through forests, mountains and ridges, while offering spectacular views of the St. Lawrence River. Well-marked and dotted with nine shelters and cabins, it offers a truly accessible and safe adventure, even for families. As there are two sectors, there are two possible starting points for your hike. It’s the perfect place to introduce your little ones to long-distance hiking, since there are several huts accessible within 5 km of the parking lot, without having to compromise on the view! Our family’s favourite huts on this trail so far: L’abbatis, La Grande-Vue and La Faille! 

 A person with their back to the camera on a snowy hill, next to a wood cabin.

Photo credit: Naomie Veillette

The Traversée de Charlevoix: A multi-day family vacation 

The Traversée de Charlevoix is a long-distance hiking trail of around 105 kilometres that criss-crosses the mountainous landscape of Charlevoix. It usually takes about 6 to 7 days to make the full crossing. The route is marked and structured, connecting several wild landscapes, and eight shelters and rustic cabins along its length offer welcome respite from the cold. The trail is accessible on foot and by cross country ski in winter, depending on trail conditions. We strongly recommend that you check them before you set off.

There are also several options for day hikes and hut stays that don’t require you to make the full hike! These are the alternatives I’ve tried out with my family.

Our family’s favourite huts on this trail: the Boudreault, the Eudore, the Taïga, the Dôme and the Jean-Pierre Cadot. The majority of these huts are situated less than 1 kilometre from the parking lot in summer and are very close to several trailheads for day hikes. I recommend double-checking trail conditions before you depart, as some trails are not groomed in winter, which could increase the distance you have to travel to reach the hut. 

Sleeping in a hut: An unforgettable experience 

There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere of a cabin in the woods with no running water or electricity and a wood stove to keep you warm!  It brings you back to the basics. With no distractions, we feel a greater sense of connection to the nature surrounding us and to each other. The experience of sleeping in the mountains is also magical for little ones — imagine how proud they’ll be of packing their bag, hiking to the hut, and sleeping in the woods! The beauty of spending the night in a hut is that you can hike surrounding trails without having to drive back home, as you’ll be sleeping right on the trail. 

 The sun going down over the treeline and a wintery river. To the right, a wooden hut is partially in frame.

Photo credit: Naomie Veillette

Sweeping views, challenges, and little wins 

Of course, things don’t always go smoothly! Just like at home or on any other trip, there will be challenges: lack of motivation, tantrums, hectic evenings, trouble sleeping … That’s why it’s so important to adapt and make adjustments as you go along: shortening hikes, having a way to carry the kids, checking the equipment available in the hut, etc. My advice is to start with a hut where the dishes and mattresses are provided, as this is a good way to lighten your pack. 

We have to remember to lower expectations, take more breaks and ESPECIALLY, prioritize fun in our adventures. The art of turning a simple hike into an incredible adventure comes with practice! Try playing games while you hike, like 20 Questions or I Spy, or make up songs or special missions — and most importantly, take LOTS of snack breaks. You’ll help your children have a positive experience that will make them want to do it all over again. Finally, turn every accomplishment into an outstanding success to help the kids celebrate their victories. Encouragements like “WOW! You walked all the way to the shelter!” or “Oh wow! You’ve managed to spot 10 markers! You’re such a good hiker!” can make a world of difference for a child’s sense of accomplishment. 

Why these trails are ideal for a first family hiking trip 

The Sentier des Caps and the Traversée de Charlevoix offer the ideal setting for your family’s first multi-day hiking experience. The trails are clearly marked, huts along the way allow you to hike the trail in stages, and everything is organized to make sure it’s safe and easy to follow. The whole experience offers a real sense of adventure — sleeping in huts, hiking for several days, exploring the great outdoors — while being accessible and unintimidating for families who are more focused on making memories than breaking records. I encourage you to check them out!  Note that advance booking is mandatory for the Traversée de Charlevoix, and you must check in at the visitor centre. Be sure to check the trail conditions before setting out. Don’t hesitate to contact the organizations that manage these trails if you have any questions. 

See you soon on the Trans Canada Trail!

Left: A mother and her young children at a trailhead, smiling at the camera. Right: A mother holds a younger child in her lap while an older child kisses his cheek.

Photo credit: Naomie Veillette

Naomie Veillette is an entrepreneur, specialized educator, babywearing instructor and birth companion. She is dedicated to empowering women to embrace motherhood on their own terms and take meaningful steps towards their biggest dreams. A mother of two, she continues to pursue her passion for mountain hiking with her children. Together, they’ve climbed over 200 peaks across four countries.   

Find simple ways to lift your mood, move your body and make winter something to smile about at tctrail.ca/blahs2ahhhs/.

About the Trans Canada Trail

Stretching nearly 30,000 kilometres across every province and territory, the Trans Canada Trail is cared for locally by trail and community groups. As a charity, Trans Canada Trail advocates for and stewards this nationwide system, helping ensure people can keep finding moments in nature that support their wellbeing. We support community-led trail projects through the Trail Catalyst Fund and we share reliable trail knowledge through the Centre for Trail Excellence.

Feature photo credit: Naomie Veillette