Zec Mars-Moulin wilderness guide
Controlled Harvesting Zone (ZEC) · Quebec

Zec Mars-Moulin

Zec Mars-Moulin is a vast controlled harvesting zone in Quebec offering diverse outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping in a rich boreal forest environment.

Controlled Harvesting Zone (ZEC)198,0004+ Trails

Designation

Controlled Harvesting Zone (ZEC)

Total Wilderness Area

198,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Zec Mars-Moulin

Zec Mars-Moulin is a vast controlled harvesting zone in Quebec offering diverse outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and camping in a rich boreal forest environment.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Zec Mars-Moulin is a controlled harvesting zone located in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, Canada. Covering over 800 square kilometers, this protected area consists of dense boreal forest, numerous lakes, rivers, and varied terrain that ranges from gently rolling hills to more rugged landscapes. Established in 1979, the ZEC manages the sustainable use of natural resources, particularly focusing on hunting and fishing activities to preserve ecological balance. The region supports populations of moose, black bear, and various small game animals, along with abundant fish species such as brook trout and walleye. Visitors can explore a network of over 200 kilometers of forest roads and trails ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and snowmobiling during winter months. Camping is widely available with several primitive campsites providing a rustic experience close to the wilderness. Anglers are drawn to the clear lakes and streams that offer high-quality fishing opportunities. Zec Mars-Moulin also features numerous hunting zones regulated through permits to ensure ecological sustainability. A highlight of the area includes the Mars River, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation potential. The combination of well-managed resources, diverse wildlife, and scenic natural environments make Zec Mars-Moulin a rewarding destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquil forest adventures and active recreation.

Field Guide · Controlled Harvesting Zone (ZEC)
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Zec Mars-Moulin

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mars River – Scenic river offering fishing and canoeing✦ Diverse fishing opportunities including brook trout and walleye✦ Extensive network of forest roads for hiking and mountain biking✦ Remote campsites providing access to peaceful wilderness experiences
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Zec Mars-Moulin

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

Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Zec Mars-Moulin
Park Recreation

Hunting

Available in Zec Mars-Moulin
Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Zec Mars-Moulin
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Zec Mars-Moulin
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Zec Mars-Moulin
Park Recreation

Canoeing

Available in Zec Mars-Moulin
Park Recreation

Snowmobiling

Available in Zec Mars-Moulin
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Zec Mars-Moulin
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Zec Mars-Moulin
Park Recreation

Cross-country Skiing

Available in Zec Mars-Moulin
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Zec Mars-Moulin.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Access requires purchase of daily or seasonal ZEC permits available online or at entrance stations.

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 Zec Mars-Moulin

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

Camping Oasis

A quiet, nature-focused campground near Mars River with limited services, ideal for rustic camping and wildlife observation.

Camp du Gros-Brochet

Campground near Lake Gros-Brochet accessible by forest roads, favored by anglers and hunters for its proximity to key fishing spots.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Zec Mars-Moulin

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

Saint-Félicien, Quebec
⌖ 20.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saint-Félicien, Quebec

Saint-Félicien is a welcoming outdoor town on Quebec’s boreal edge, perfect for hiking, paddling, skiing, and wildlife viewing. Explore vast forests, paddle calm waters, and meet native animals year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Roberval, Quebec
⌖ 24.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roberval, Quebec

Roberval, Quebec offers a peaceful adventure getaway on the shores of Lac Saint-Jean. Ideal for paddling, hiking forest trails, fishing, and enjoying snowy winters, it’s a gateway to Quebec’s boreal outdoors.

Late Spring to Early Fall for water and hiking activities; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Chambord, Quebec
⌖ 30.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chambord, Quebec

Chambord, Quebec offers outdoor lovers tranquil paddling, hiking, and fishing around Lac Saint-Jean. Winter opens up cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in vast snowy landscapes. A quiet basecamp for exploring nature reserves and authentic small-town charm.

Late spring to early fall; winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Dolbeau-Mistassini, Quebec
⌖ 39.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dolbeau-Mistassini, Quebec

Dolbeau-Mistassini offers lakeside trails, calm paddling waters, and snow-covered forests in Quebec’s Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, perfect for hiking, fishing, skiing, and snowmobiling lovers.

Late spring through early fall for paddling and hiking; winter for skiing and snowmobiling
Explore Town
Saint-Henri-de-Taillon, Quebec
⌖ 45.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saint-Henri-de-Taillon, Quebec

Saint-Henri-de-Taillon offers a peaceful outdoor escape on the shores of Lac Saint-Jean. Ideal for paddling, hiking, fishing, and winter skiing, it’s a quiet gateway to Taillon National Park’s natural beauty.

Late Spring to Early Fall for water activities; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Saint-Stanislas, Quebec
⌖ 48.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Saint-Stanislas, Quebec

Saint-Stanislas, Quebec is a serene riverside town perfect for paddling, fishing, and gentle hiking. Surrounded by beautiful waterways and quiet trails, it offers a relaxing outdoor escape year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall for water and hiking activities; Winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Zec Mars-Moulin

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