Gaspesie National Park: The Complete Guide 2026
Welcome to the Gaspésie National Park, located in the very heart of the Gaspé Peninsula! With its 25 peaks over 1,000 meters, this protected territory is home to the last caribou south of the St. Lawrence River and offers breathtaking mountain landscapes.
A top hiking destination in Québec, the park reveals exceptional diversity: alpine tundra, ancient forests, crystal-clear lakes, and remarkable wildlife including moose, caribou, and golden eagles. From Mount Jacques-Cartier to Lake aux Américains, every trail unveils grandiose panoramas.
How do you get there? Where can you stay? Which hikes should you choose? When is the best time to go?
Here is the complete guide that will help you optimally plan your discovery of Gaspésie National Park for your next road trip in Québec.
Summary
- Map of Gaspésie National Park
- What to do in Gaspésie Park?
- Where to sleep in Gaspesie National Park?
- How to get to Gaspésie Park?
- 2026 Rates
Map of Gaspésie National Park
What to do in Gaspésie Park?
Gaspésie National Park is an incredible playground for all outdoor enthusiasts.
The altitude of the many mountains in the park creates different climates that attract a diversity of living species unique in the world. This elevation, peaking at over 1,268 meters at Mount Jacques-Cartier, shapes the entire landscape and generates fascinating microclimates: from boreal forest to arctic-alpine plants, every sector of the park reveals its own natural treasures.
With its 140 kilometers of marked trails winding through the Chic-Chocs and McGerrigle mountains, the territory offers privileged access to mountain environments found nowhere else in Québec. From crystal-clear lakes to bare peaks, through glacial valleys and tundra plateaus, each hike transports you into a different setting.
On foot, by canoe, or on the water, it’s hard not to marvel at such generous nature! Whether you are an experienced hiker or an occasional outdoor lover, this protected area will offer you unforgettable experiences in the heart of one of Québec’s wildest regions.
1. Hiking
Hiking is without a doubt the activity of choice in the park.
Whether you are an experienced or beginner hiker, there are trails for all levels, some of which are particularly worth the detour:
🥾 TOUR DU MONT-ALBERT
- Length: 17.4 km (loop)
- Duration: 6 to 8 hours
- Elevation gain: 870 meters
- Difficulty level: Difficult
- Starting point: Discovery and Services Center, Mont-Albert sector
- Dates: Mid-June to end of September
This trail will leave you speechless with its constant climb and punctuated by magnificent viewpoints. It’s a must if you are in good physical shape!
If you have a bit less time, you can also just do the north side only by returning on your steps once at the summit.
- Length: 11.4 km (round trip)
- Duration: 5 hours
- Elevation gain: 850 meters
- Difficulty level: Difficult
- Starting point: Discovery and Services Center, Mont-Albert sector
- Dates: Mid-June to end of September
🥾 MONT-ERNEST-LAFORCE
- Length: 4.5 km (loop)
- Duration: 2 hours
- Elevation gain: 155 meters
- Difficulty level: Intermediate
- Starting point: Mont-Ernest-Laforce parking lot Route 16, Monts-McGerrigle sector
- Dates: Early May to end of November
If you don’t have an entire day or if you are a less experienced hiker, this is the trail to prioritize.
The observation point at the summit offers a beautiful overall view of the park’s mountains.
Be attentive as you pass by, as moose are very present in this part of the park!
🥾 MONT JACQUES-CARTIER
- Length: 8.3 km (round trip)
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours
- Elevation gain: 465 meters
- Difficulty level: Difficult
- Starting point: Mont-Jacques-Cartier Campground Route 16, Monts-McGerrigle sector
- Dates: Late June to end of September, between 10 am and 4 pm
The second highest peak in Québec, Mount Jacques-Cartier is home to a herd of caribou.
As the presence of hikers disturbs the animals, it is forbidden to use the trail before 10:00 am and after 4:00 pm.
Once at the top, at more than 1000 meters in altitude, you’ll be amazed by the alpine tundra landscape. In fact, it’s not uncommon that the summit is still snow-covered, even in summer!
The Mont Jacques-Cartier hike is one of the most beautiful in Québec.
🥾 LAC-AUX-AMÉRICAINS
- Length: 2.6 km (round trip)
- Duration: 1h30
- Elevation gain: 80 meters
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Starting point: Lac-aux-Américains Parking Route 160, Monts-McGerrigle sector
- Dates: Early May to end of November
This short trail is ideal for families or less athletic visitors! In less than 30 minutes, it will bring you to a postcard-worthy view.
Impressive at any hour of the day, but especially in late afternoon, lac aux Américains is considered by many to be the most beautiful in Gaspésie!
2. Wildlife watching in Gaspésie Park
As the climate varies greatly in Gaspésie Park, a diverse wildlife coexists here: white-tailed deer, arctic char, golden eagle, moose, caribou, etc.
These last two are of course the stars of the territory.
CARIBOU
Contrary to the European myth, it is not common to see caribou in Québec. But your chances are greater if you plan a road trip in Gaspésie.
Mount Jacques-Cartier is the best place to see these impressive deer.
Estimated at around 230 animals, the Gaspésie caribou herd is considered to be endangered. For this reason, Gaspésie Park is a highly protected area.
Indeed, as mentioned above, it is forbidden to use the trail outside of permitted hours. A park ranger ensures that the rules are followed and can also answer hikers’ questions.
MOOSE
Gaspésie Park is home to one of the highest moose densities in the province. Also called “elk of America”, they are the largest deer in the world.
Seeing them is extremely impressive. Be attentive when traveling in the park, as it’s not uncommon to spot one or more along the roadside or even on a trail.
To feed, moose seem particularly fond of the Mont Ernest-Laforce trail for the large number of birches, firs, and young shrubs found there.
Where to sleep in Gaspesie National Park?
If you want to make the most of this fantastic area, the Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (Sépaq) offers several types of accommodations located directly in the park.
1. Camping
For the most purist travelers, camping is the lodging of choice to be in perfect harmony with nature.
The campsites, with or without service(s), are spread across 4 different campgrounds (Mont-Albert, Rivière, Cascapédia, and Mont-Jacques-Cartier). They can accommodate campers in tents and/or RVs.
In addition to these areas, you’ll find a space offering fully open sites specially designed for RVs.
2. Glamping
Located at the Mont-Albert campground, the 14 Huttopia tents offer a very comfortable camping experience.
It’s a great option if you’re not equipped to camp or if you’re traveling as a family. These ready-to-camp tents can accommodate up to 6 people (maximum of 4 adults).
All tents are equipped with auxiliary heating, which can be very useful when nights are cooler.
There are washroom blocks (toilets, sinks, and showers) available nearby.
3. Gîte du Mont-Albert
A magnificent inn renowned for its warm welcome and fine cuisine, it offers travelers and outdoor enthusiasts a luxurious stay in the heart of the mountains.
Rated 4 stars, this picturesque lodging boasts an impeccable reputation.
With 60 rooms featuring a private bathroom and an outdoor pool, it’s the ideal place if you’re traveling as a couple and want to spoil yourselves a bit!
4. Cabin
Accommodating up to 8 people, the cabins are located around the Gîte du Mont-Albert and along the Saint-Anne River.
They offer a fully equipped kitchen, a wood stove (or fireplace), a toilet, a shower, and hot water.
Outside, there’s also a picnic table and a fire pit.
And don’t forget, in summer, tenants can enjoy the pool at Gîte du Mont-Albert!
How to get to Gaspésie Park?
To get there, take Route 132, which circles the Gaspé Peninsula, then turn onto Route 299, which runs north to south through the park. Whether you’re coming from the north or south of the peninsula, this road will take you directly to the Discovery and Services Center.
Driving distance to the Discovery and Services Center:
From Montreal: +/- 750 km
From Quebec City: +/- 530 km
From Tadoussac: +/- 360 km
From Saint-Anne-des-Monts: +/- 40 km
2026 Rates
Gaspésie National Park is managed by the Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (Sépaq) and entry is fee-based.
- Adult: $10.10 / Adult (18 years and older)
- Child 17 and under: Free
That’s it!
Gaspésie National Park is definitely a must to include in your next Quebec itinerary.
If you have any questions and/or suggestions, don’t hesitate to comment in the section below.
FAQ – Gaspésie National Park
When is the best time to visit Gaspésie?
From June to September, you’ll enjoy the best conditions to discover Gaspésie National Park. The temperatures are pleasant for hiking and access to a spectacular mountain environment is optimal. October is also interesting for seeing the fall colors, but some trails may be closed depending on the weather.
What is the main tourist attraction in Gaspésie?
Hiking is the main attraction in Gaspésie National Park, with its 140 km of trails leading to woodland caribou, the last representatives of this species south of the St. Lawrence. Mont Jacques-Cartier offers exceptional panoramas over this sea of mountains and unique arctic plants, all accompanied by our passionate park rangers-naturalists.
Where is Gaspésie located?
Gaspésie National Park is located in the heart of the Gaspé Peninsula, about 20 km south of Sainte-Anne-des-Monts. This true sea of mountains covers more than 800 km² and contains two distinct massifs: the Chic-Chocs to the west and the McGerrigle Mountains to the east.
What is there to do in Gaspésie?
You’ll discover a multitude of activities in this park with 25 peaks over 1,000 meters. Besides hiking, enjoy canoeing on peaceful lakes, salmon fishing, kayaking, or wildlife watching with our specialized guides. In winter, the trails transform for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, granting you unique access to this nordic environment unlike anywhere else in North America.
How many days should you plan to visit the park?
Plan on 3 to 5 days to see the highlights of Gaspésie National Park, depending on your hiking ambitions. A 3-day visit lets you explore intermediate-level trails and take in the stunning views of the Chic-Chocs, while 5 days gives you the time to spot woodland caribou and fully enjoy this incredible mountain environment with our specialized guides.
Can you really see caribou in the park?
Absolutely! Mont Jacques-Cartier remains the best spot to see these majestic deer in their natural alpine tundra habitat. With around 230 individuals, this unique population requires strict protections: access to the trail is permitted from July 1st to September 30th, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. only.
Do you need a car to get to the park?
A car is essential to reach Gaspésie National Park from urban centers. A seasonal shuttle runs from Sainte-Anne-des-Monts to the park from July to September, but offers only one round trip per day. To explore the different areas freely and transport your hiking gear, your own vehicle guarantees total flexibility.
About the author
![Sarah Mazière]()
Sarah Mazière
Travel, nature and road trips are an integral part of my recipe for happiness. I had the chance to travel the country coast to coast on several occasions, so it is with great pleasure that I share my experiences with you! Have a nice trip...
Travel, nature and road trips are an integral part of my recipe for happiness. I had the chance to travel the country coast to coast on several occasions, so it is with great pleasure that I share my experiences with you! Have a nice trip...
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