Hiking in Gaspésie

Hiking in Gaspésie: trails between sea and mountains

Gaspésie is an unparalleled hiking destination. Trails often wind between sea and mountains, leading to panoramas found nowhere else in Québec.

From family walks to long-distance treks, the options are endless. Four national parks, two regional parks, a UNESCO Global Geopark, and dozens of local trails together create a unique playground. The 650-km International Appalachian Trail crosses Gaspésie all the way to the Maritime provinces and Maine. At the heart of the region, the Chic-Chocs rise like a sea of mountains.

Hiking here is a year-round activity: in spring when the buds appear, in autumn when the colours blaze and moose can be spotted, or in winter with crampons and snowshoes.

Note that some areas welcome dogs, including Forillon National Park, wildlife reserves, and regional parks. During hunting season, national parks remain the best choice, as access to other trails may be limited.

Our tips for planning your hikes

Discover Gaspésie’s must-see hikes

Parc national de la Gaspésie Sainte-Anne-des-Monts National Park - Paid access, over 70,000 visitors

Credit: Mathieu Dupuis

Parc national de la Gaspésie

This area boasts 25 peaks, including Monts Albert and Jacques-Cartier, the region’s stars, which draw many hikers each year. Very accessible, the trails at Lac aux Américains and Ernest-Laforce are perfect for a family outing. Dogs are allowed only in certain areas.
Forillon National Park Gaspé National Park - Paid access, over 70,000 visitors

Credit: Mathieu Dupuis

Forillon National Park

Soak in the beauty of the park as you explore its trails. Les Graves leads to the “end of the world” lookout, with views over an endless sea. Mont Saint-Alban offers a 360° panorama from its observation tower. The La Chute trail ends at a 17-meter waterfall. Other trails are also waiting to be discovered, and you can enjoy them with your dog on a leash.
Percé UNESCO Global Geopark Percé Interpretation Sites

Credit: Mathieu Dupuis

Percé UNESCO Global Geopark

This geopark offers 18 km of trails, all of which can be explored with your dog. Along the way, you’ll find several viewpoints and a glass platform suspended 200 meters above the ground, with views of Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island. Also discover the “Bottomless Hole” and the “Mont Blanc Crevasse,” and, with the family, the “Magic Forest” with its twisted trees.
Parc régional du Mont-Saint-Joseph Carleton-sur-Mer Regional and Municipal Park

Credit: Roger St-Laurent

Parc régional du Mont-Saint-Joseph

Overlooking Carleton-sur-Mer, this mountain offers breathtaking views of the Chaleur Bay from its 555-meter lookout. Its 30 km of developed trails, featuring bridges and stairways, lead to streams and waterfalls. The interconnected trails allow for hikes of varying lengths. Dogs are allowed in certain areas.
Sentier international des Appalaches (SIA) Québec GR A1 Matane Hiking - Services

Credit: Marie France L'Ecuyer

International Appalachian Trail (IAT)-GRA1

The International Appalachian Trail (IAT) crosses Gaspésie from Matapédia to Cap-Gaspé. It passes through the Matane Wildlife Reserve, Gaspésie National Park, and Forillon National Park. The trail can be explored on day hikes, over a few days, or as a full trek of around 40 days, with overnight stays in shelters or campsites. It’s a unique experience to challenge yourself and discover the heart of the Gaspésie mountains.