There is a lot more to Quebec than just maple syrup, poutine, and the gorgeous old-world charm of Montreal. Indeed, for those who love hiking, this province is like Disneyland!
It is home to some of the most jaw-dropping hiking trails in Canada – if not the world!
While Banff and the Rockies get their fair share of exposure, remarkably, much of the rest of the region still flies under the radar as a destination for rambling.
But make no mistake, if you’re craving being up close and personal with epic peaks, sparkling lakes, thick forests, and trails that have that lost-in-the-woods feel, hiking in Quebec is definitely something you need to do.
From gentle riverside walks to thigh-burning treks up summits that showcase incredible panoramic views, there is a Quebec hike for everyone to attempt.
But here’s the thing.
You can’t just rock up in your sneakers and hope for the best. Not only can the weather turn in an instant, but the trails can also surprise you at every turn. That is why it is important that plan ahead.
That’s exactly the reason this guide has been put together.
In it, I will walk you through the best hikes in Quebec. Covering everything from easy, short-day hikes to physically challenging multi-day Quebec treks. It includes a mix of insider tips, trail highlights, and little bits of personal experience that should help to make your hikes around the region much more enjoyable.
What to Know Before Hiking in Quebec
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Forrest Gump famously said, “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you are going to get”. The same could be said about hiking in Quebec. One moment you’re wandering through thick pine forests that smell like Christmas in July, and the next you’re standing on a rocky ridge staring out at endless lakes that sparkle under the sun. This is what a trip to Canada is all about.
Quebec hiking trails are as varied as they come. Wide river valleys, misty waterfalls, remote peaks, and even coastal paths that feel more like seaside walks in Quebec, rather than mountain treks, can all be found here. It’s wild, beautiful, and way more diverse than most people realise. Even those who live or were born in Canada.
That said, it’s not all smooth sailing. The weather here can change faster than you can say “poutine.” Trails can be muddy, steep, or even remain snow-covered well into spring. Additionally, some of the best hikes in Quebec are tucked away in national parks, which means the logistics, like transport, trail access, and permits, are all something you will need to keep in mind. Don’t stress, though. I’ll break all of that down as we go.
And don’t worry, I won’t just be rattling off lists of Quebec hikes and then leaving you hanging. Instead, this guide will take a deeper dive into all the details. Namely, what hikes to do in Quebec for every type of traveller, what to pack, how to stay safe, and even where to stay after a long trek.
Hopefully, once you have read until the end, you’ll feel more than ready to hit those awesome Quebec trails!
Trail Safety
Hiking in Quebec is a wonderful experience. But it’s not something you should take lightly. Sure, the landscapes are wild, and that’s exactly what makes them so irresistible. But that same wilderness means you’ve got to show the trails some respect.
In this respect, a little preparation goes a long way. In fact, it can be the difference between enjoying a hike you’ll rave about and one that leaves you wishing you’d stayed at home. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not trying to scare you off. Just to give you the kind of pep talk any good hiking buddy would.
First things first. You should always be prepared. This means thinking about your route, checking the forecast, and planning ahead. It is also important to make a plan, so that you know where you’re going, how long it should take to get there, and contingencies for if things don’t go perfectly. Most importantly, tell someone your plans. Whether it’s a mate, a family member, or the front desk at your hostel, let someone know where you’ll be wandering off to and what time you are expecting to return.
It is also essential to take a small first aid kit with you for when the unexpected happens (and it will!). Don’t forget to take the right gear with you as well (you’ll find a full packing list at the end of this article).
In addition, make sure you always stay hydrated, because all Quebec walks can surprise you with how much energy they sap, even on cool days. Finally, it is well worth obtaining travel insurance. You won’t need it until you need it. But if you do need it, you’ll be mighty glad you have it.
8 Best Hiking Trails in Quebec
If your feet are getting twitchy at the prospect of hiking through Quebec, then you should love what is coming next.
Here are eight fantastic hikes in Quebec for those who want to explore the best of La Belle Province. From easy day hikes to more challenging treks for those with excellent levels of fitness, there is a trail here for everyone.
1. Acropole des Draveurs (Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park) – Best Day Hike in Quebec
If you only have a day to spare for hiking when staying in Quebec, then make sure you devote it to the Acropole des Draveurs. This trail is the rockstar of the Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park, and honestly, it deserves the fame.
You start off in a thick forest, before winding your way up switchbacks that get your legs burning pretty quickly. However, once you break the tree line, boom! You have views for days.
The Malbaie River carves a deep valley below, and from the summit, you can see endless ridges and peaks that stretch out like a sea of green. If you happen to tackle the trail in autumn, you’ll see the colours take on shades of fiery reds and oranges that will make you feel like you’re hiking inside a painting. Summer is also spectacular, particularly when the sheer cliffs glow under the sun. However, I much prefer the autumn colours, which are quite spellbinding.
Now, I’m not going to sugarcoat it, this trail is quite steep, so it is not for those with anything less than moderate fitness levels. In fact, the climb feels relentless at times, and you’ll definitely earn your post-hike celebratory beer. But the reward at the top is worth every gasp, groan, and aching muscle.
If you’re after one of the best hikes in Quebec to brag about later, Acropole des Draveurs should be number one on your list. Just remember to pace yourself, bring plenty of water, and stop often to take it all in.
- Length: 10.4 km (round trip)
- Duration: 5–6 hours
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Trailhead: Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie Visitor Centre (47.8989° N, 70.5890° W)
2. Mont Saint-Hilaire – Best Short Trek in Quebec
If you’re staying in or near Montreal and craving a quick escape to nature, then Mont Saint-Hilaire should be your go-to hike.
Just a short drive from the city, it’s ideal if you’re on a short itinerary. This trail punches way above its weight when it comes to views. Best of all, this is one trail where you don’t need to undertake days of planning or carry a bootload of gear with you. Instead, you can pretty much just lace up, grab some water, and then you’re good to go.
The climb is short but steep, and your legs may well start to feel it after a while. Luckily, for those with short commitment spans, the rewards do come fast to you.
From the top, you’ll get sweeping views of the Richelieu Valley and the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can even spot Montreal’s skyline in the distance, which provides a fabulous contrast to the natural setting from which you’ll be viewing it. It also makes it a good stop if you’re road tripping between Quebec City and Montreal.
What makes Mont Saint-Hilaire so great is how easy it is to get to. You don’t need to commit a whole weekend, and you can fit it into a day trip without breaking a sweat (well, okay, you may sweat a little, or a lot). It is also an amazing spot to head to throughout the year to see the seasons change. The lush greens of summer, fiery foliage in autumn, and crisp, snowy trails in winter all add fascinating perspectives to the wild terrain.
Overall, Mont Saint-Hilaire is easily one of the best short Quebec hikes you can do in the province. In fact, it is perfect if you’re looking for a quick adventure that delivers box office views without demanding too much of your time or energy.
- Length: 5 km (round trip, depending on the summit chosen)
- Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Average
- Trailhead: Gault Nature Reserve, Mont Saint-Hilaire (45.5596° N, 73.1471° W)
3. International Appalachian Trail (Sentier International des Appalaches, Gaspésie) – Best Multi-Day Hike in Quebec
Have you ever dreamed of tackling the Appalachian Trail, but don’t quite fancy walking all the way from Georgia to Maine? Well, I’ve got good news for you. The adventure doesn’t stop at the US border. It keeps rolling right into Quebec, where it becomes the Sentier International des Appalaches.
Let me tell you, the Gaspésie section is an absolute gem. This trek takes you deep into the Chic-Choc Mountains, which is one of the wildest and most dramatic landscapes in Quebec. Here you’ll see jagged peaks, alpine tundra, river valleys, and maybe, if you’re lucky, the chance to spot woodland caribou.
The trail itself is no joke. It feels rugged and remote, and multi-day sections can be demanding, with steep climbs, rocky footing, and weather that likes to change its mind on a whim.
But the payoff is massive. Sunrises over endless ridges, mist clinging to mountain slopes, and campsites that make you feel like you’re the only person left on earth, will provide you with hiking experiences you’ll never forget.
The best part about this trail is that you can do it for as long or as little as you want to. Overall, it comprises some 650 kilometres of trail in the Quebec section. This means you can pick shorter segments that suit the time you have available and your level of fitness.
As a result, it doesn’t matter if you fancy doing a short day walk, a longer weekend trek or the true long-haul end-to-end adventure, the International Appalachian Trail is open to everyone.
- Length: 650 km (Quebec section)
- Duration: 3–30 days (depending on chosen section)
- Difficulty: Difficult to Very Difficult
- Trailhead: Parc national de la Gaspésie Visitor Centre (48.9464° N, 66.2731° W)
4. La Corniche Trail, Mont Tremblant National Park – Must Visit Hike in Quebec
Mont Tremblant might be famous for its ski slopes, but it also has some tremendous hiking trails, the best of which is probably La Corniche.
This one is popular because it is short, relatively accessible, and provides you with views so good that your mood will elevate a couple of notches.
The path winds gently through the forest. While traversing it, you’ll be serenaded by plenty of birdsong and may even see the occasional squirrel. You’ll also climb a bit, but nothing too punishing, at least not compared to other hikes on this list. So, it is a good option for families and casual walkers who want to stretch their legs without having to commit to a full-day trek.
Expect goosebumps when the trees part and you’re standing on a lookout with a sweeping view of Lac Monroe and the rolling Laurentians beyond. You’ll no doubt want to take plenty of Insta-worthy photos. But make sure you take the time to soak in the views with your own two eyes afterwards.
As a heads up, because it’s so approachable, La Corniche can get busy, especially in summer and during the colour explosion of fall. But don’t let that put you off. The trail has a cheerful ambience, and there’s something kind of nice about sharing that jaw-dropping view with fellow Quebec hikers who are just as giddy about it as you are.
- Length: 3.4 km (round trip)
- Duration: 1–1.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: Discovery Centre, Mont Tremblant National Park (46.2782° N, 74.5126° W)
5. Montmorency Falls Trail – Fun, Easy Hike in Quebec
If you thought Niagara Falls was Canada’s one and only show-stopping waterfall, then think again. Just 15 minutes from Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls reside, which is taller by a full 30 metres! Thankfully, you don’t need to be a hardcore trekker to experience it. That is because the Montmorency Falls Trail is an easy, fun hike that delivers big-time views with very little effort.
Looping around the falls, the trail gives you multiple perspectives to gawk at this natural wonder. You’ll wander along boardwalks, cross a suspension bridge that practically vibrates with the roar of the water beneath, and climb a series of stairs that will really get your heart pumping (thankfully not for too long!).
What’s great about this hike is that every stop offers something different. Mist spraying your face, rainbows flickering in the sunlight, and the sheer thundering power of the falls, which remind you just how small you are.
Indeed, families love it, photographers obsess over it, and it is also a favourite among travellers who are short on time, as they can easily squeeze it into a day of exploring Quebec City. I’d even go so far as saying it is more of a “walk with a wow factor” than a strenuous trek. But sometimes that’s exactly what you need.
I recommend coming here in winter when the falls freeze into an icy masterpiece, which turns the trail into something out of a children’s fairytale.
- Length: 3 km (loop, including stairs and bridge)
- Duration: 1–2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: Parc de la Chute-Montmorency Visitor Centre (46.8881° N, 71.1500° W)
6. Mont Albert Loop (Parc national de la Gaspésie) – Toughest Trek in Quebec
From one of the easiest hikes in Quebec to one of the most challenging. If you’re looking for a hike that will test your legs, lungs, and determination, the Mont Albert Loop is it.
This beast of a trail sits deep in Parc national de la Gaspésie, and it’s often called one of the toughest treks in Quebec. But tough doesn’t mean it has to be a miserable, military-style bootcamp experience. Quite the opposite, in fact.
The loop actually dishes out some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll find anywhere in the province. Initially, it lulls you into a false sense of security by taking you through a thick forest. However, the fun and games then start with a climb.
Switchbacks soon turn into rocky scrambles, and before long, your entire body is working hard for every step. It can be tough to negotiate, but the moment you reach the alpine plateau at the top, you’ll experience pure magic.
Wide, open tundra stretches before you, with distant peaks on the horizon and the kind of silence that only wild places can give you. If you’re really lucky, you might spot caribou wandering across the plateau, which should be a visual reminder that you’ve well and truly stepped into their territory.
This loop is not the kind of trek you wing on a whim and does require a lot of planning. The weather can shift quickly, and the descent can be brutal on tired knees. Therefore, it is essential that you come prepared with the right gear, have a good level of stamina, and possess a steely mindset. However, it is well worth the effort and endeavour.
- Length: 17.4 km (loop)
- Duration: 7–8 hours
- Difficulty: Very Difficult
- Trailhead: Discovery and Visitors Centre, Parc national de la Gaspésie (48.9464° N, 66.2731° W)
7. Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix – Best Long Distance Trek in Quebec
For those who are excited about the prospect of long-distance trekking in Quebec, the Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix should be on your radar. Stretching for more than 50 kilometres, this trail follows the ridges between Baie-Saint-Paul and Petite-Rivière-Saint-François. It is notable for giving you endless views over the mighty St. Lawrence River and the rolling Charlevoix hills.
The terrain here is quite rugged. So, you’ll be climbing, descending, and weaving your way through thick forests, rocky outcrops, and the occasional boardwalk section. That said, some stretches are gentle and meditative, while others have you puffing and grinning as you haul yourself uphill. That mix of challenge and outstanding natural beauty is what makes this trek so addictive.
Above and beyond anything else, this trail offers flexibility. You don’t have to commit to the whole trail if time (or your calves) won’t allow it. Instead, as there are multiple access points, you can break your hikes into smaller day treks or intersperse multi-day sections with overnight stays in huts or shelters.
If you’re keen for the full thru-hike, make sure you prepare yourself for a good few days of sweat and sore feet. This isn’t a hike for the faint-hearted. But for those who crave big views and a deeper dive into nature, Sentier des Caps delivers in spades.
- Length: 51 km
- Duration: 3–5 days (can also be done as shorter day hikes)
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Trailhead: Sentier des Caps Welcome Centre, Saint-Tite-des-Caps (47.0567° N, 70.7973° W)
8. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve – Best Off The Beaten Path Trek in Quebec
If you’re the type of hiker who loves finding spots that most travellers never even hear about, then the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve is going to blow your socks off. This is one of the most unique treks in Quebec because it is not known for towering mountains. Instead, it is characterised by its surreal coastal landscapes.
Picture dozens of tiny islands scattered along the north shore of the St. Lawrence, dotted with bizarre limestone monoliths that look like they’ve been sculpted by giants. It’s wild, weird, and downright wonderful!
Getting here is an adventure in itself and one of the best road trips in Quebec. As you’ll need to take a boat out to the islands, it instantly makes it feel more like an expedition than your average Quebec hike. However, once you land, you should find the trails are easy to follow. You’ll wander past strange rock formations, driftwood-strewn beaches, and seabird colonies that make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a National Geographic documentary.
Mingan is a special place to hike because its remoteness means there are no crowds or busy trailheads. It is just you, the sea, and those alien-looking rocks. While it is not an especially strenuous trek, it does require some forward planning. You will need to organise boat transfers, camping gear if you’re staying overnight, and have an appreciation for being in wild, open spaces.
If you want a hike in Quebec that’s truly off the beaten path, Mingan is it. Trust me, when I say this one that will stick in your memory long after you’ve brushed the sand out of your shoes.
- Length: Varies by island (1–12 km trails available)
- Duration: 1–6 hours (day hikes) or multi-day with camping
- Difficulty: Easy to Average
- Trailhead: Havre-Saint-Pierre Visitor Centre (50.2552° N, 63.6053° W)
Where to Stay in Quebec
One of the best things about hiking in Quebec is the flexibility of accommodation options you have available. You have got loads of choices when it comes to where to base yourself for a day, or a few on the trails.
If you like the idea of returning to the comfort of city life after your jaunt in nature, then your best bet is to stay in Quebec City or Montreal. You’ll find plenty of hotels, Airbnb, and hostels at both of these destinations, along with numerous food options, and all the amenities you could need. Both cities also have excellent public transport links and accommodate most of the major car rental companies, including Hertz, Budget, Alamo and Enterprise.
That said, if you intend to visit one of the parks, then don’t overlook the charm of staying in one of the small towns near them. The likes of Charlevoix, Gaspésie, or Tremblant villages all feature several cosy guesthouses, Airbnb, rustic eco lodges and local B&Bs that give you a real taste of life in small-town Quebec. In addition, if you do stay here, you’ll wake up closer to the trailhead, which should save you valuable time. Often, the local hosts are hotbeds of tips and information on the best Quebec hikes and lesser-known spots in the nearby region.
And of course, there’s always the camping option. Most of Quebec’s national parks and well-established trail systems have well-maintained campgrounds. So, you can pretty much roll straight out of your tent and onto the path!
Camping is cheaper and more adventurous, and nothing quite beats a campfire under the stars after an exhilarating day on the trail.
Auberge Internationale de Quebec | Best Hostel in Quebec
Auberge Internationale de Quebec is the largest hostel in all of Canada with 266 beds! It sits inside the Old Town’s fortified walls and offers both dorms and private rooms. This historic hostel is full of travellers ready to socialise and grab a pint with you after a day of exploring.
Au Petit Hotel | Best Hotel in Quebec
Au Petit Hotel is located in Old Town and is chock full of charm! It’s a fairly priced hotel, right in the mid-range, that will keep the wallet happy. With consistent 9/10 ratings, Au Petit Hotel is the best place to be!
A true family home | Best Airbnb in Quebec
Fitting up to 6 people, this Airbnb is amazing for families that want to explore Quebec together. The area is super peaceful, and it’s roughly 5 minutes by car to Old-Quebec, but you can go by foot or public transport too. Stylish, bright and very welcoming, the home is going to make you feel super comfy. It also offers great entertainment, with free Netflix and Spotify Premium.
What to Bring on Your Hike in Quebec
If you want to go hiking in Quebec, it is important to do so with the right gear. Nothing ruins a day faster than soggy shoes, an empty water bottle, or realising you’ve forgotten that extra layer of warmth, just as the weather turns.
Generally speaking, the longer and tougher the hike you intend to go on, the more your packing list will matter. For example, a short walk around Montmorency Falls might only call for sturdy shoes and a snack. But if you’re heading up Mont Albert or tackling a section of the International Appalachian Trail, then you’ll want proper boots, layers, and gear that can handle a real adventure. Typically, this should be extra water, navigation tools, and maybe even camping equipment if you’re stretching it over a few days.
To make things easier, we’ve put together this overview of the best hiking gear you can take with you when exploring Quebec’s trails. If you have all of these in your arsenal, you should be able to hit the trails with a lot more confidence.
Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork
- Price > $$$
- Weight > 17 oz.
- Grip > Cork
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
- Price > $$
- Weight > 1.9 oz
- Lumens > 160
Merrell Moab 2 WP Low
- Price > $$
- Weight > 2 lbs 1 oz
- Waterproof > Yes
Osprey Daylite Plus
- Price > $$$
- Weight > 20 oz
- Capacity > 20L
GRAYL Geopress
- Price > $$$
- Weight > 16 oz
- Size > 24 oz
Osprey Aether AG70
- Price > $$$
- Weight > 5 lbs 3 oz
- Capacity > 70L
MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2P
- Price > $$$$
- Weight > 3.7 lbs
- Capacity > 2 person
Garmin GPSMAP 64sx Handheld GPS
- Price > $$
- Weight > 8.1 oz
- Battery Life > 16 hours
Don’t Forget Your Canada Travel Insurance
Make sure you get some good travel insurance, aka one that covers the activities you’re going to be doing; a whole lotta hiking!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on the Best Hikes in Quebec
Alright then, we’ve come to the end of this epic adventure. I hope the hikes I’ve detailed here have you feeling inspired to hit the trails of Quebec. Honestly, this region just blew me away and took me totally by surprise, if I’m honest.
With its unique blend of culture, history, nature and wildlife, this area of Canada offers some of the most breathtaking yet accessible hiking in the country. Plus, once you’ve spent the day on the trails, you’ve got the perfect excuse to indulge in some guilt-free poutine! Now that’s a win for me!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Canada for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the beautiful places in Canada covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Canada if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Quebec before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
