Weather and Climate

Yes. It is warm in Gaspésie during the summer. In fact, temperatures in Gaspésie are comparable to those in the rest of Quebec. Being a maritime region, the breeze can make the air feel cooler along the coast than in the forest or inland areas. To fully enjoy your stay, it’s recommended to always have a windbreaker and a warm sweater on hand. Check out our blog post to learn more.

Gaspésie offers plenty of options for family fun on rainy days. Museums, interpretation centers, an aquarium, and indoor play centers are among the activities to explore. You can also take a break in a café, restaurant, or specialty shop to enjoy local products away from the rain.

In Gaspésie, winter temperatures are similar to those in the rest of Quebec, but snowfall is often heavier. The perceived temperature can vary depending on the wind, altitude, or type of environment. To fully enjoy outdoor activities, it’s best to layer your clothing and adjust according to your activity and the current conditions. Check out our blog post on this topic.

Yes. Roads in Gaspésie are cleared of snow and remain accessible throughout the winter. As in the rest of Quebec, it’s recommended to be well prepared and check road conditions on Québec 511 before setting out, especially during storms. Check out our blog post to learn more.

Yes. The risk of avalanches is real in the Chic-Chocs, especially when skiing off-piste or snowmobiling outside designated trails. Before heading out, it’s essential to check snow conditions and be familiar with mountain safety rules. Avalanche Québec, the only avalanche center in Eastern Canada, is the go-to resource for planning your trips in this area.

Some museums remain open year-round, including the Musée de la Gaspésie and the Musée acadien du Québec. In addition, there are other indoor activities to enjoy with the family, such as escape rooms, shops, craft workshops, and various gourmet spots. Depending on where you’re staying, you can also take advantage of an indoor pool or simply enjoy a hot chocolate break at a local café.

Yes. It is possible to see the Northern Lights in Gaspésie, but the phenomenon is rare. The region is located further south than the most active observation areas, such as northern Quebec. That said, when conditions are right, the display can be spectacular. The best time to see them is from late September to early April, especially between dusk and dawn. To maximize your chances, choose a clear location away from light pollution.

Yes. During the season (May to October) and depending on food availability, up to seven species of whales can be seen in the waters of Gaspé Bay and the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.

You may spot the blue whale—the largest whale in the world—along with the fin whale, humpback whale, minke whale, pilot whale, white-sided dolphin, and harbor porpoise.

On a whale-watching excursion, you can see a back or tail emerge from the water, hear a blow, and even watch dolphins performing acrobatics. While paddling along the coast in a kayak, you may also encounter gray seals and harbor seals basking on long, flat rocks.

Environment Canada and The Weather Network provide local weather forecasts for Gaspésie, including current alerts and hourly conditions.