Experience Québec
Adventure
“Journey to the Center of the Earth”
There’s a world of mystery under our feet in the network of dank, dim grottos and caves. An exploration of these natural underground cavities (speleology) is a singular adventure into an unknown environment. Here’s an overview of what awaits.
Picture yourself 30 metres underground. It’s pitch black, damp, and at a temperature of 6ºC, chilly enough to give you the shivers. The only sounds are your own breathing and footfalls, and echoes bounce off the dripping walls. Suddenly, you find yourself in a cave where fantastic stalagmites jut from the floor. It’s an impressive sight.Ali Baba’s caves
Speleology is not a dangerous activity. Naturally, there are unstable areas, and it’s easy to get lost. That’s why it’s a good idea to be with an experienced guide who has a thorough knowledge of the terrain. With trusty guide by your side, you are free to admire the calcium carbonates that crystallize and cover the walls with jewel-like "concretions." Most of them were formed by erosion over 1,000 years ago! The history of Quebec’s caves comes with a few colourful anecdotes, such as the story of the 133-metre long Trou de Fée at Crabtree (450 754-3434, reservation mandatory). The first cave to be listed in the speleological index for Quebec, it was discovered in 1822 by a group of boys who were out hunting wildcats. Some of those boys would later hide in the cave to avoid conscription during the Second World War.A cave in downtown Montreal?
That’s what you’ll find at the cavernicolous site in Saint-Léonard. Just 40 metres long, it’s ideal for amateur explorers. Before the tour, familiarize yourself with speleology by watching the slide show. If you find the visit too short, explore the longest grotto east of the Rockies at the Boischatel cavernicolous site. Its 3,000-metre-long network of galleries channels the water from the Ferrée River toward Montmorency. The size of the caves varies greatly along the way, ranging from caverns 8 to 12 metres in height to tiny passages of 30 to 50 cm, offering an interesting challenge for explorers.Deep down in the mines
Looking for an family experience? Visit the underground galleries at the Capelton copper mine; they are the deepest in Quebec. Miners in uniform will share the history of this mining complex, which was one of the most active in Canada between 1863 and 1939. Whether you prowl among the stalactites of Saint-Elzéar or between the marble walls of the Lusk cavern, the world of caves opens its doors to exploration. All you have to do is find your way out!
| Lights! |
| Even rank beginners can enjoy speleology... provided they have the appropriate safety gear. In most places, a hard hat with forward-mounted lamp is provided. All you need to bring is boots, warm waterproof clothing, and gloves. Ask for additional details when you make your reservation (mandatory). The activity is not recommended for children under the age of six. |
Guillaume Rivard
Photos: J. Schroeder, Christian Francoeur, Société québécoise de spéléologie
2008-04-15
