Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located off the coast of the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec, Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock National Park is distinguished by its spectacular geological and ecological features. The park encompasses Bonaventure Island, a 4.15-square-kilometer island famous for hosting one of the largest northern gannet colonies in the world, and the iconic Percé Rock, a massive limestone formation emerging from the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The surrounding waters and cliffs provide critical habitats for numerous seabirds including puffins, razorbills, and cormorants. Historically, Percé Rock has served as a landmark for mariners since the 16th century, while Bonaventure Island has a rich past tied to fishing communities and bird conservation efforts. Visitors can explore a network of maintained trails through diverse habitats of rocky shores, boreal forests, and grasslands rich with wildflowers. Key recreational activities include guided birdwatching tours, photography of seabird colonies and Percé Rock, kayaking around the island, and cruising to sights within the park. Winter visits are limited by weather and access, but summer and early fall provide the best conditions for wildlife observation and hiking. The blend of geological grandeur and vibrant birdlife makes this park a favored destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
