A young family walking in one of the park’s trails.
Hiking
Whether you choose a walk of less than an hour or a full day’s hike, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of the Laurentian landscape. While moving through the natural setting of this protected area, you’ll take in some breathtaking viewpoints, approach lakes and ponds of singular beauty, and come in contact with flora and fauna in tune with the rhythm of the seasons.
• Easy hiking trails
• Moderate hiking trails
• Difficult hiking trails
Easy hiking trails
Wabenaki
Duration: 6 hrs.
Distance: 16,2 km
Trailhead: Saint-Jean-des-Piles Visitor Reception and Interpretation Centre
Hike along a portion of the Sentier national de la Mauricie (in french only) and immerse yourself in a forest corridor running alongside Lac à la Pêche and Isaïe Lake, as well as the Saint-Maurice River and Rivière à la Pêche.
Lac Étienne
Duration: 1 hrs.
Distance: 1,4 km
Trailhead: Lac Edouard Picnic Area
A trail bringing you in contact with different aquatic habitats. Observation stations, interpretation panels and an adjustable telescope will enhance your walk.
La Cache
Duration: 30 min.
Distance: 1 km
Trailhead: Lac du Fou Parking Lot
Watch wildlife through the telescope in the blind set up on the edge of Lac du Fou. Identify animals with the help of interpretation panels.
Ruisseau Brodeur
Duration: 30 min.
Distance: 1,4 km
Trailhead: Ruisseau Brodeur
Follow this narrow-sided brook as it cascades gently in the direction of Wapizagonke Lake.
La Tourbière
Duration: 15 min.
Distance: 300 m
Trailhead: Esker
Venture forth on a boardwalk into the middle of a floating green “carpet,” home to some fascinating orchids and carnivorous plants.
Les Cascades
Duration: 1 hrs.
Distance: 2 km
Trailhead: Bridge at Shewenegan Picnic Area
Follow a cascading brook and cross over a marsh via a boardwalk. Take advantage of the stream to take a break and cool off.
Moderate hiking trails
Lac Solitaire (#13)
Duration: 3 hrs.
Distance: 5,5 km
Trailhead: Behind the Rivière à la Pêche Service Centre
Upon completing a first ascent, you’ll reach the Lac Solitaire lookout. The trail continues with a series of additional ascents and descents around the lake.
Ruisseau Bouchard (#14)
Duration: 4 hrs.
Distance: 8,3 km
Trailhead: Behind the Rivière à la Pêche Service Centre
Begin by hiking along a portion of the Lac Solitaire Trail and discover some splendid panoramas. You then continue on your way to the Lac aux Chevaux lookout, and end your outing along a stretch running next to Bouchard Creek.
Lac du Pimbina (#15)
Duration: 5 ½ hrs.
Distance: 13,1 km
Trailhead: Behind the Rivière à la Pêche Service Centre
You’ll be hiking through mountainous terrain, with stops at the lookouts at Lac Solitaire, Lac aux Chevaux and Lac du Pimbina. On the way back, you’ll travel alongside Bouchard Creek.
Lac Gabet
Duration: 1 ½ hrs.
Distance: 3 km
Trailhead: Lac Gabet Parking Lot
Rent an Explora handheld device and discover the secrets of a typical Laurentian forest. Take a break at the blind located on the edge of the lake.
Les Falaises
Duration: 2 hrs.
Distance: 3,8 km
Trailhead: Ruisseau Brodeur
Hike to the lookouts located atop rock walls and admire the landscape surrounding Wapizagonke Lake.
Difficult hiking trails
Mekinac
Duration: 5 hrs.
Distance: 11 km
Trailhead: Mekinac Parking Lot
After a demanding climb, you’ll reach the Lac Rosoy lookout, where you’ll enjoy a panoramic view out over the Saint-Maurice River.
Deux-Criques
Duration: 7 hrs.
Distance: 17 km
Trailhead: Behind the Rivière à la Pêche Service Centre
Hike one of the park’s most beautiful and demanding trails. You’ll have to ford a brook but you’ll also get to see the Ruisseau du Fou falls. And, once you reach one of the lookouts, you’ll enjoy some breathtaking views.
Vieux-Brûlis
Duration: 6 hrs.
Distance: 13 km
Trailhead: Le Passage
This trail is marked by a forest fire that occurred in 1923. It offers views out over the surrounding mountains.