Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
La Mauricie National Park is a 536-square-kilometer protected area located in the Laurentian Mountains of Quebec, Canada. Created in 1970, the park preserves a well-preserved section of the Canadian Shield characterized by mixed hardwood and coniferous forests, interspersed with over 150 lakes and numerous rivers. The landscape was sculpted by glacial activity, resulting in rugged hills and scenic waterways that provide a rich habitat for a variety of wildlife including moose, beavers, black bears, and over 190 bird species. The park has a strong Indigenous history, as the area was traditionally used by the Atikamekw people for hunting and fishing. Visitors today are drawn to its extensive network of hiking and canoe routes, which range from short day walks to multi-day backcountry adventures. Key highlights include Wapizagonke Lake, which is popular for canoe camping, and the trail up to the summit of Mont Apic, offering panoramic views of the park’s rolling forested terrain. Winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer alternative ways to experience the park’s quiet snowy landscape. The park facilities include several campgrounds, rental services for canoes and snowshoes, and an interpretive center that provides educational programs about the park’s natural and cultural heritage. La Mauricie is ideal for visitors seeking a balance between wilderness solitude and accessible outdoor recreation in an environment characterized by calm lakes and diverse wildlife.
