BAIE-ST-PAUL AIRPLANE FIELD GUIDE
Fifty Kilometers of Charlevoix from the Sky: Mountains at Your Feet over Parc National des Grands-Jardins
A short, 15-minute aerial excursion that carries you to the edge of Parc National des Grands-Jardins and back, revealing a 12+ metre waterfall, the Charlevoix crater and countless lakes—useful for planning a brief but unforgettable flight over Quebec’s dramatic interior.
Fifty Kilometers of Charlevoix from the Sky: Mountains at Your Feet over Parc National des Grands-Jardins.
Adventure brief
Fifty Kilometers of Charlevoix from the Sky: Mountains at Your Feet over Parc National des Grands-Jardins
“Les montagnes à vos pieds” is a compact aerial outing that lifts you over the patchwork lakes and rolling farmland of Charlevoix to the fringes of Parc National des Grands-Jardins, then returns past a dramatic waterfall more than 12 metres high and the wide scar of the Charlevoix crater.
Situated in the vibrant town of Baie-St-Paul, Héli-Charlevoix offers a chance to ascend above the rugged landscapes of Quebec’s Charlevoix region. Their signature trip, “Les montagnes à vos pieds,” is more than just a helicopter ride—it's an invitation to witness a panoramic tableau of natural beauty that defines this part of Canada.
From the cabin of their helicopter, you'll glide over the sprawling Parc National des Grands Jardins, a lush expanse of boreal forests and jagged peaks. The flight maneuvers past a dramatic 12-meter waterfall that plunges into crystalline waters, creating a thunderous spectacle beneath you. Your gaze will also be drawn to the unique Charlevoix crater, a geological marvel formed by ancient meteorite impacts, offering a glimpse into Earth's fiery past. Interspersed among these features are countless lakes, their surfaces shimmering in the sunlight, adding a reflective quality to the landscape.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of geological wonder, untouched wilderness, and the thrill of aerial perspective. It’s a trip that appeals equally to outdoor adventurers and those eager to see a less-visited side of Quebec—an area rich in natural history and rugged charm. The tour is perfect for anyone with an appetite for adventure and a desire to photograph expansive views, especially during clear days when visibility is optimal.
Héli-Charlevoix’s “Les montagnes à vos pieds” underscored why this company is such a vital part of the local outdoor scene. It offers an unmatched way to connect with the landscape, providing a perspective that’s both awe-inspiring and educational. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a geology enthusiast, or simply chasing a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this helicopter tour sets a high bar for outdoor adventure in Quebec.
It’s more than just flight; it’s a journey into the heart of Charlevoix’s wild terrain, accessible from the nearby city of Quebec, and designed to leave lasting memories of natural grandeur.
Route Schematic
Route schematic and key flyover points
The trip follows a short loop that links park fringe, rural Charlevoix, a notable waterfall and the Charlevoix crater.
Fringes of Parc National des Grands-Jardins
The aircraft carries you to the approach areas of Parc National des Grands-Jardins for aerial views of its ridges and water bodies.
Charlevoix countryside and rural ranks
A sequence of flyovers showcases Charlevoix’s cultivated ranks and the patchwork of lakes that dot the region.
Waterfall (12+ metres) and return
On the return leg the flight passes a waterfall more than 12 metres high before completing the circuit.
Charlevoix crater overview
The route includes views of the Charlevoix crater—a defining geological feature visible from the air.
The excursion is a short, 15-minute flight; no special equipment is required for passengers.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Parc National des Grands-Jardins from above
The flight carries you to the outskirts of Parc National des Grands-Jardins, offering sweeping aerial perspectives of its alpine ridges and lakes that are otherwise hard to access on the ground.
A 12‑metre waterfall and the Charlevoix crater
On the return leg you’ll pass a waterfall measured at over 12 metres and sweep across the landscape shaped by the Charlevoix crater—two signature sights that punctuate the excursion.
Lakes and rural ranks of Charlevoix
Between park and crater the helicopter traces the region’s rural ranks and a mosaic of lakes, giving a compact but varied portrait of Charlevoix’s countryside.
What the day feels like
What the 15‑minute flight feels like
The excursion is brief and concentrated: a lift toward the edges of Parc National des Grands-Jardins, a sweeping reconnaissance of Charlevoix’s lakes and farmland, and a close pass to a waterfall exceeding 12 metres before returning—an aerial sampler that compresses the region’s major geological and scenic features into a single short flight.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this flight matches (and where to be cautious).
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
No special equipment is necessary for this flight.
Each flight lasts approximately 15 minutes.
The listed rate is $159 per person (taxes extra).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the flight?
Each flight has a duration of approximately 15 minutes.
What will we see on the flight?
The flight reaches the edges of Parc National des Grands-Jardins, passes over Charlevoix’s rural ranks and lakes, includes a view of a waterfall over 12 metres high, and shows the Charlevoix crater.
Is any special equipment required?
No special equipment is required for this excursion.
How much does the excursion cost?
The listed price is $159 per person; taxes are extra.
Where does the flight go in relation to Parc National des Grands-Jardins?
The excursion carries you to the approach areas (abords) of Parc National des Grands-Jardins for aerial views.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-07T13:04:02.337Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.