Less than ninety minutes from Quebec City, Grands-Jardins National Park reveals an unexpected landscape of taiga and tundra. Here, black spruce grows on a carpet of lichen, and mountains offer breathtaking panoramas of the Charlevoix crater. A true gem within the biosphere reserve, this park astonishes visitors with its northern flora and fauna—an island of Quebec's Far North nestled in the heart of Charlevoix.

History of Grands-Jardins National Park

Before its official creation, the Grands-Jardins territory was frequented by the Montagnais and Huron-Wendat peoples. In the late nineteenth century, its wild beauty attracted American and Ontarian vacationers who founded Club La Roche, a prestigious private hunting and fishing lodge. In 1895, the area became part of Laurentides Park, and then in 1981, the Quebec government granted it national park status to protect its unique natural environment.

In 1988, UNESCO designated the site as part of the Charlevoix Biosphere Reserve, cementing its ecological and heritage importance.

Grands-Jardins Today

Spanning nearly 320 square kilometers, Grands-Jardins National Park is today a model of conservation. Areas affected by the fires of 1991 and 1999 allowed nature to regenerate, providing refuge for diverse wildlife. Located in the heart of the Jacques-Cartier Lake massif, it harbors a rare taiga at this latitude and is an integral part of the Charlevoix Biosphere Reserve. Combining scientific research, biodiversity protection, and responsible discovery, the park embodies the meeting of preservation spirit and the pleasure of exploring an exceptional northern territory.

Flora and Fauna of Grands-Jardins National Park

Between taiga and boreal forest, the park reveals a nature that is both raw and fragile. Here, landscapes evoke Quebec's Far North: dark forests, silvery lichen carpets, and the silence of high elevations. Visitors discover a unique ecosystem, shaped by climate and the passage of seasons.

• Boreal forests: dominated by black spruce and balsam fir, they shelter foxes, moose, and black bears. These mature forests, often marked by fire, regenerate slowly and offer remarkable biodiversity.
• Southern taiga: rare at this latitude, it stretches across the park's plateaus like a fragment of the Far North. Lichens, mosses, wild blueberries, and Labrador tea compose a surprisingly arctic landscape.
• Emblematic wildlife: among the park's inhabitants are woodland caribou, a vulnerable species, as well as wolves, lynx, and common loons—witnesses to the fragile balance that reigns here.
• The kingdom of birds: spruce grouse, Bicknell's thrushes, and peregrine falcons animate the valleys and lakes. At dawn, their songs echo between the firs, offering a concert distinctly of the North.

This living sanctuary, where boreal vegetation meets northern fauna, reminds us how precious and untamed Quebec's nature remains.

What to Do at Grands-Jardins National Park

In the heart of Charlevoix, the park offers an exceptional nature experience. A true island of Quebec's Far North, it unfolds its taiga, tundra, and boreal forest landscapes where each season offers its own adventure.

Fishing and Relaxation in the Wilderness

Renowned for over a century, the park is a paradise for trout fishing enthusiasts. Its numerous lakes and rivers offer tranquility, authenticity, and total immersion.

• Fishing with accommodation: stays on the shores of remote lakes combining rustic comfort and peace.
• Adventure fishing: foot or bike access to Camp and Southwest Lakes for a wild experience.
• Day fishing: on the Malbaie River or Beaver and Turgeon Lakes, ideal for a quick getaway.

Navigate Between Forests and Mountains

Discover the park from the water and let yourself drift with the reflections.

• Canoeing and kayaking: calm itineraries through biodiversity-rich zones.
• Stand-up paddleboarding: test your balance on Lake Arthabaska in a grand setting.
• Rabaska: venture out in small groups with a naturalist park warden for a convivial outing.

High-Altitude Adventures

For lovers of thrills and spectacular panoramas.

• Via ferrata on Mont du Lac-des-Cygnes: secure routes across suspended bridges and beams.
• Moonlight events: nocturnal hikes under the full moon.
• Traditional climbing: on the faces of Mont de l'Ours and Gros-Bras, for experienced climbers.

Hiking and Wildlife Observation

With more than 30 kilometers of trails, the park invites exploration of its many faces.

• Mont du Lac-des-Cygnes: a breathtaking panorama over the Charlevoix crater.
• Immersive trails: La Chouenne, Le Pioui, or Le Gros-Pin, perfect for discovering boreal flora.
• Wildlife observation: moose, black bears, spruce grouse—keep your eyes open!

Boreal Winter

Beneath the snow, the park becomes a silent and magical world.

• Snowshoeing: more than 40 kilometers of trails and heated shelters.
• Cross-country skiing: marked trails between snow-covered spruces.
• Winter contemplation: frozen landscapes and the boreal light of Quebec.

Located east of Quebec City, Grands-Jardins National Park is accessible via Route 381, through Saint-Urbain and La Baie.

• Main entrance: Mont-du-Lac-des-Cygnes Centre (km 21), the starting point for hikes and via ferrata.
• Arthabaska Centre: at km 31, then Route 60 (9 km), ideal for campers and anglers.
• Shuttles from Quebec City: direct services provided by Navette Nature and Quatre Natures.
• In winter: access available from mid-December to late March, depending on snow conditions. Self-service payment stations are available at main entrances.

To note: electric vehicle charging stations are installed near parking P3 (Mont-du-Lac-des-Cygnes sector) and at km 31.

Park Hours and Fees

The park is open year-round, with hours adapted to seasons and activities.

Opening Hours

• Monday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Friday to Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Access remains possible outside these hours thanks to self-service payment stations at entrances.

Admission Fees

• Adult (18 years and older): $10.10 per day
• Annual pass – Grands-Jardins Park: $50.50
• Annual pass – Quebec National Parks: $91
• Child (0 to 17 years): free
• Groups (15 people or more): $8.95 per adult

Tip: reserve your access rights online on the Sépaq website to save time and avoid waiting.