Begin your adventure with hiking the Mont du Lac des Cygnes Trail, an 8.6 km moderate loop with spectacular views of the park's mountains and valleys. Along the trail, you’ll encounter cascading waterfalls and streams, and lush evergreen forests. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, beavers, and other wildlife.
Experience the park's tranquil, crystalline waters by canoeing on La Croche Lake. The lake is surrounded by a vast network of rivers and lakes and is easily accessible from a parking lot near Route 175. The park offers canoe rentals, with guided tours available to help you navigate the waters with ease.
Complete your nature adventure by exploring the serenity of the Grands-Jardins section of the park. This protected area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including caribou, wolves, and black bears. Take the Les Castors trail to a scenic lookout, where you might spot some of the incredible fauna that inhabits the park.
To reach Jacques Cartier National Park, a car is required. It takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to drive from Quebec City to the park. The distance between each attraction varies between 46.6 miles and 78.7 miles, so be sure to account for travel time between each activity. Gas prices in Quebec average $1.25 per liter, so be sure to budget accordingly.
If you have more time, consider exploring the park's other trails and lakes, including the Sentier des Caps, Lac Brazeau, and Portneuf Wildlife Reserve. If you have less time, prioritize the Mont du Lac des Cygnes Trail and Grands-Jardins sections of the park, as these offer some of the most spectacular views and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) is the closest airport to Jacques Cartier National Park, located approximately 25 miles from Quebec City. It's serviced by major airlines, including Air Canada and WestJet. The park is a 1 hour 30-minute drive from the airport.