La Mauricie National Park of Canada
On-line Visit
© Parks Canada / Mark Mills
Exhibition – Visitor Reception and Interpretation Centre
© Parks Canada / J. Pleau
Magic in 3D
Get off to a good start and stop in at the Saint-Jean-des-Piles Visitor Reception and Interpretation Centre. "Mystic Laurentians", a 3-D slide show, will captivate and enchant you. In the adjoining hall, the fascinating discovery of the park's secret wonders awaits you. You will encounter in among the rocks, forests and lakes, those who have made its history.
Saint-Maurice River Valley© Parks Canada / J. PleauAlong the Saint-Maurice River
From Saint-Jean-des-Piles onward, the Saint-Maurice River dominates the landscape. The third largest tributary of the St. Lawrence, it is redolent with memories of the Mauricie region. The first glimpse of this majestic waterway from the lookout of the Visitor Reception and Interpretation Centre is an unforgettable experience. Relive some of the stirring episodes of its history while stopping briefly at the Mekinac and Baie-de-la-Pêche rest areas. A breathtaking view of a valley unfolds before your eyes at the Lac-Rosoy Lookout, on the Mekinac Trail.
Wapizagonke Lake Valley© Parks Canada / J. PleauA Jewel of a Lake
Cradled in the depths of a valley, Wapizagonke Lake resembles a river. It is one of the major attractions of the park, and whether you prefer to take a leisurely canoe trip through its endless waterscapes, lounge on its golden stretches of sandy beach, or simply revel in the grandiose spectacle it presents from any of three lookouts perched atop its dizzying heights, you will find this lake an unforgettable experience.
Lac à la Pêche© Parks Canada / J. PleauExploring the Backcountry
Whether you travel on foot or by canoe, the landscape will awaken the gypsy in your soul. One long and several medium-length hiking trails, along with a variety of canoe-camping sites, will allow you to explore the backcountry. Forget schedules and leave your worries behind as you let your senses guide you to your destination. Before long, you will feel at home in this generous and hospitable wilderness.
Waber Falls© Parks Canada / J. PleauA Witchery of Waterfalls
An excursion to Waber Falls is a unique experience, combining canoeing, hiking, picnicking and swimming, as well as breathtaking panoramas. Upon reaching your destination, relax with a dip in the park's most beautiful waterfalls! A day full of sights, sounds, and unforgettable moments.
A Canoe Excursion on Wapizagonke Lake© Parks Canada / J. PleauTravelling by Rabaska Canoe
At the stroke of an oar, the familiar landscape recedes as you set out on board a Rabaska canoe on a voyage of discovery through space and time.
A New Way of Seeing
There is no easier way of becoming familiar with the richly diverse terrain of the park than by taking part in the interpretation activities available to visitors. Our naturalists have prepared a whole range of exciting activities to bring you closer to nature. Armed with brochures, you will be challenged to solve some mysteries, and make unusual discoveries as you explore the interpretation trails. To help you appreciate the wilderness, watch for the interpretation panels placed at various strategic locations.
An Autumn Landscape© Parks Canada / J. PleauA Palette of Fall Colours
From the end of September and continuing for a number of weeks, Nature puts on her annual show of colours. The pictures she exhibits are entrancing: everywhere the forests are ablaze with flamboyant hues. And, as always, the maple groves occupy centre stage. In this season, a drive along the Parkway, a stop at a lookout, or a canoe trip on a quiet lake, provide a feast for the eyes never to be forgotten.
Parker Lake Falls© Parks Canada / Mark MillsGliding into Winter
The first snowflakes announce the discreet arrival of winter, and with them cold and silence take hold of the land. It is time to break out your cross-country skis and to glide gently into winter. An extensive network of ski trails, a Service Centre, and several heated shelters en route add to the pleasures of the season. A stone's throw from the trails, at Wabenaki and Andrew Lodges, comfortable and affordable accommodations are available upon reservation.
La Mauricie National Park, a precious witness to the Canadian landscape!