Parc National des Grandes-Rivières wilderness guide
National Park · Quebec

Parc National des Grandes-Rivières

Parc National des Grandes-Rivières is a pristine Quebec national park known for its extensive river systems, boreal forest ecosystems, and outstanding opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife observation.

National Park361,0004+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

361,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Parc National des Grandes-Rivières

Parc National des Grandes-Rivières is a pristine Quebec national park known for its extensive river systems, boreal forest ecosystems, and outstanding opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in the Côte-Nord region of Quebec, Parc National des Grandes-Rivières encompasses a vast area of boreal forest interwoven with large river corridors, primarily the Manicouagan and Outardes Rivers. The park’s landscape features rugged rocky outcrops, dense coniferous forests of black spruce and balsam fir, and stretches of wetlands that provide habitat to diverse wildlife including moose, black bears, and numerous bird species such as the common loon and osprey. Established to protect the rivers and surrounding forests, it showcases excellent examples of northern Quebec’s natural environment and supports both ecological preservation and recreational activities. Visitors are attracted to the park’s extensive water routes that are ideal for multi-day canoeing and kayaking expeditions, offering a chance to experience remote wilderness campsites and tranquil waterways away from developed areas. Fishing for brook trout and northern pike is also popular in the park’s rivers and lakes. The park features well-maintained trails for hiking and wildlife viewing, including interpretive circuits that highlight local geology and traditional use by Indigenous peoples. The park's quiet solitude, scenic landscapes, and abundant wildlife make it a destination for nature lovers, paddlers, and anglers seeking an authentic wilderness experience in eastern Canada. Access is primarily by road from nearby communities, with amenities including designated camping areas, boat launches, and visitor information facilities. Seasonal weather can be brisk, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters that limit access in colder months.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Parc National des Grandes-Rivières

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Manicouagan Reservoir – a massive annular lake formed by a meteor impact✦ Pristine boreal forests rich with wildlife including moose and black bears✦ Extensive river and lake systems ideal for canoeing and kayaking expeditions✦ Secluded backcountry campsites accessible by water routes
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Park entrance fee is required; backcountry camping permits must be obtained prior to trip.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Campground Pikos

Located near the park entrance, offering tent pads, fire pits, and easy access to hiking trails.

Backcountry River Campsites

Several primitive campsites along the Manicouagan and Outardes Rivers available for paddlers with permit.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Parc National des Grandes-Rivières

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Baie-Comeau, Quebec
⌖ 7.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Baie-Comeau, Quebec

Baie-Comeau offers outdoor lovers scenic hiking, paddling the mighty St. Lawrence, and winter skiing adventures surrounded by boreal forests. It’s a quiet gateway to natural beauty and seasonal thrills on Quebec’s North Shore.

Late spring to early fall for water and hiking activities; winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Pointe-aux-Outardes, Quebec
⌖ 13.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pointe-aux-Outardes, Quebec

Pointe-aux-Outardes is a peaceful coastal town on Quebec’s Gulf of St. Lawrence, perfect for birdwatching, paddling, and hiking in protected natural areas. A quiet destination to connect with nature year-round.

Spring to Fall
Explore Town
Godbout, Quebec
⌖ 34.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Godbout, Quebec

Godbout is a quiet riverside town on Quebec’s north shore known for salmon fishing, scenic paddling on the St. Lawrence estuary, and serene forest trails rich with wildlife. It’s ideal for outdoor lovers seeking low-traffic nature experiences.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Mont-Joli, Quebec
⌖ 45.24 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mont-Joli, Quebec

Mont-Joli is a quiet Quebec town offering nature lovers access to forest trails, river paddling, and winter snow sports. Its location near the St. Lawrence River makes it a great base for exploring rural landscapes and protected natural areas year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall for paddling and biking; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Matane, Quebec
⌖ 45.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Matane, Quebec

Matane is a vibrant coastal town on Quebec’s Gaspé Peninsula, perfect for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and whale watching year-round. Its mix of wilderness, marine wildlife, and winter sports makes it a diverse outdoor basecamp.

Late Spring to Early Fall for paddling & hiking; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Sainte-Luce, Quebec
⌖ 47.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sainte-Luce, Quebec

Sainte-Luce, Quebec offers outdoor adventurers a peaceful coastal escape with hiking, paddling, bird watching, and winter skiing along the St. Lawrence River. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy nature away from crowded tourist hubs.

Late spring to early fall for warm-weather activities; winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Parc National des Grandes-Rivières

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.