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Are you dreaming of breathing fresh air, falling asleep under a starry sky, or discovering unique outdoor activities? Follow our guide to make the most of your outdoor excursions. Because here, nature isn’t just a backdrop: it’s a playground, a refuge, a tradition, and sometimes an opportunity to make unusual discoveries.
Spice up your stay with adventures big and small
Whether you love slow, contemplative strolls or full‑on adventures, our big, beautiful Québec gives you countless ways to play outdoors. But where to begin? Here are some great ideas.
Long-distance hiking: Thousands of kilometres of trails designed for long-distance hiking crisscross our land. Our longest one? The Sentier national au Québec (SNQ), which stretches over 1,830 kilometres, linking the Outaouais region to Gaspésie! But whether you’re on the SNQ or one of our other major trails, surrounded by mountains, cliffs, lakes and rivers, our many routes offer spectacular views and the chance to observe—from a distance!—our wildlife.
Outdoor activities in a national park: Day hikes, geocaching, treasure hunts, survival workshops, rafting, canoeing or kayaking… our national parks are packed with activities of all kinds, for every interest. Don’t forget to book your daily passes online before you go: the Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (Sépaq) parks, which are very popular, limit the number of visitors to protect the natural environment and enhance the visitor experience.
Cycle touring: With our 12,000-kilometre, bike path network, you won’t be done exploring anytime soon! Hop on your bike and ride along the St. Lawrence River or Lac Saint-Jean, speed down our mountains and explore our countryside. Experience a different kind of travel by following one of our many bike routes that are just waiting to show you the way.
Outfitters: For a more structured (and often more comfortable) adventure, outfitters offer fishing, accommodation, guided excursions and an all‑out nature experience. But beyond fishing, they also welcome families, couples and groups of friends who come to enjoy our great outdoors. Canoeing, kayaking, hiking and swimming—there’s fun for everyone!
Beaches and swimming: When the sun is shining, there’s nothing better than a dip in one of our many lakes or rivers. You can spend the whole day relaxing by the water, or stop off for a swim to cool off after a long day of sightseeing and exploring.
On the water: All you need is a boat, a paddle and a life jacket to venture out on our waterways. Explore our lakes by canoe or rabaska, go rafting down our river rapids, or paddle along our waterways by kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
Add a playful dash of the unexpected to your summer
Looking for unique summer experiences that take you off the beaten path? Nature lets you in on its best‑kept secrets, one precious discovery at a time.
A full spectrum of colours
As night falls, pockets of forest come alive with shimmering light, under the watchful eyes of the owls. Québec presents a number of outdoor light shows, including the show at Parc de la gorge de Coaticook in the Eastern Townships, featuring dazzling illuminations and intriguing sounds. It’s absolutely mesmerizing to see all this woodland glowing with a thousand lights. The magic continues in the Laurentides at Tonga Lumina, where a giant waits hidden among the trees.
Dizzying heights…!
Mother Nature also boasts impressive canyons and dramatic cliffs that are as head-spinning as they are captivating. Here are a couple of examples… With walls reaching up to 90 metres high, the Canyon des Portes de l’Enfer in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region can be traversed by an impressive suspended footbridge. The site also features the Devil’s Road immersive experience, a Maze of Secrets and a spooky Evening Show. Parc Aventures Cap Jaseux offers family-friendly tree top adventure courses as well as a via ferrata along the rock face, offering thrilling experiences with breathtaking views of the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region.
Answering the call of nature in the Far North
In Nunavik, everything is vast, and you feel so small. Parc national Kuururjuaq, home to the highest peak in eastern Canada (1,646 metres), and Parc national des Pingualuit, which features a 1.4-million-year-old meteorite crater, have a humbling beauty.
A luge ride in the summer? Absolutely!
On a hot day, you can whiz down a mountain on a luge or soar through the treetops on a bike. It’s fabulous! Several of our regions offer these thrilling activities: tear down a 1.4-kilometre track in the Laurentides, reach speeds of 40 km/h on a monorail toboggan zigzagging for 1 km through the Outaouais forest, and glide through the forest canopy on VéloVolant in the Eastern Townships. Wow!
Nocturnal boat excursions
In the evening, and sometimes even after dark, you can explore our miles of waterways and witness the wildlife coming to life as the sun sets. Catch the river’s golden light on a guided kayak excursion at dusk, weave your way through a 5‑km water maze or join an organized group to watch the Perseids from an island.
A night under the stars, just the way you like it!
After a busy day, there’s nothing like a well‑earned rest—especially when you can unwind in nature. Did you know you can choose from a ton of options tailored to every type of camper? From wilderness camping and ready-to-camp facilities to non-traditional accommodations, the choice is yours.
A season that lasts far longer than you’d think
Our official camping season varies from one region to another, but it generally runs from mid‑May to mid‑October, with the busiest months being July and August.
These opening and closing dates can vary quite a bit, since our winters have a way of surprising us with their sometimes early arrivals and late departures.
One thing is certain: if you’re planning to visit during our peak season, book early. Here, camping ranks right up there with maple syrup!
Completely unplug in a more traditional way
Whether you’re pitching a tent or rolling in with your RV, you can book a campsite at one of our many campgrounds, all ready to welcome both first‑timers and seasoned campers. In the woods, on islands or along the shore, dreamy destinations abound!
Up for an adventure? If you haven’t already, why not give canoe-camping a go this summer? Our national parks are the perfect spot to experience it for yourself. In fact, some campgrounds are only accessible by water! To plan a stunning and enjoyable island camping getaway, check out our recommended sites and our tips on the subject.
Ready-to-camp: for nature lovers seeking simplicity
Do you like the idea of camping, but aren’t so keen on dealing with a tent? Ready-to-camp sites, popularized by the Sépaq, offer a clever, hassle‑free solution that’s available in several regions.
You arrive, set down your bags, open the door… and voilà! No set-up or dismantling required. There are all kinds of options available to you (as always, we love giving you choices!):
- Huttopia tents: This type of furnished tent combines canvas and a wooden frame, and features real beds, a small kitchenette and sometimes auxiliary heating. The ideal mix of nature, comfort and simplicity.
- Rustic cabins and treehouses: These small wooden cabins, sometimes suspended in the air, take you back to a simpler way of being. Amenities are minimal and the heating is wood-fired. These accommodations immerse you in a soothing ambiance ideal for total relaxation.
- Yurts: These Mongolian-inspired circular units have been adapted for the Québec climate. They’re made of insulated canvas and often include a central wood-burning stove. They’re a favourite among visitors for their warm, exotic vibe—simple, inviting and wonderfully close to nature.
- Domes and suspended spheres: These spherical or geodesic structures, often featuring large windows, offer an immersive and sometimes luxurious experience. A highly photogenic take on “glamping.”
- Mini‑cabins: These modern, compact cabins make the most of a small footprint and often deliver more comfort than ready‑to‑camp accommodations. Even with their typically minimalist design, they have an undeniable charm.
Essential equipment and preparations
Depending on the type of accommodation and location you choose, be sure to take the time to find out what facilities and amenities are included before you head out.
For ready-to-camp sites, for example, bedding is not always supplied. You’ll need to bring your own sleeping bags or sheets, bath towels and toiletries.
The kitchenettes sometimes included with your accommodation often provide the basics only: a small stove, a mini-fridge or cooler, dishes and utensils, a minimal set of cookware, a can opener, a knife and a cutting board. Be sure to pack any other items you can’t do without.
Electricity isn’t always a service that’s included, and when it is, it can be fairly limited. If that’s the case, be sure to bring portable lighting with you.
Last of all, keep in mind that firewood is rarely included, but is almost always sold on site. Warning! Be sure to use wood from the same region to avoid potentially spreading small pests from one location to another.
What to pack and wear to stay comfortable this summer
No matter how long you spend in our beautiful natural surroundings, it’s worth being well prepared because Québec’s lovely summers can be full of surprises. Sometimes, you can experience several seasons in a single day. Here are a few essentials to pack so that you’re prepared for anything.
To keep the mosquitoes from feasting on you: a good insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin, a lightweight long-sleeved shirt and a mosquito head net (yes, it’s a bit of a funny look, but you’ll be glad of it!)
To deal with changing weather: a warm layer (fleece or wool), a waterproof windbreaker and a spare pair of socks. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof bag to protect your essentials, and a headlamp.
For long adventures (and short ones too): a first-aid kit, a paper map in case you lose cell service, topped-up water bottles and energy snacks are a must. Be sure to tell a friend or family member your planned route if you’re heading out on your own.
To handle those climbs and descents: a good pair of hiking shoes or boots for terrain that can sometimes be rougher than you might expect. Choose comfort and safety over style!
Titre
Outdoor getaways for every taste
On land, on the water, or in the air, the natural playgrounds of this beautiful territory invite exploration at every turn.
