Parc national du Bic Québec
A vast natural park on the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning coastal landscapes, diverse wildlife, and year-round outdoor activities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for exploring beaches & rocks
Parc national du Bic Québec
Best Time
Best for exploring beaches & rocks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast natural park on the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning coastal landscapes, diverse wildlife, and year-round outdoor activities.
"Beautiful area! Almost feels like the ocean! We had lots of fun with the kids."
Check Tide Charts First! :ocean:
Crucial for accessing certain trails and beaches. Low tide is your friend for exploration!
Pack Good Walking Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be rocky and muddy. Waterproof, sturdy shoes are a must for comfortable hiking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cap à l'Orignal
Pointe aux Épinnètes
Impressive rock formations and stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. A must-see for photographers and nature lovers.
Les Anses Trail
La ferme Rioux
Family-friendly hike leading to the shore, ideal for spotting seals resting on rocks. Great for kids and dog-friendly options.
Le Grand Tour
A challenging but rewarding hike offering breathtaking panoramic views. Not recommended for very young children due to rocky terrain.
Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for harbour and grey seals, especially during low tide. The park is a haven for diverse wildlife and birdwatching.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Tides and Trails
Prepare for Rustic Stays
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Charts First! :ocean:
Crucial for accessing certain trails and beaches. Low tide is your friend for exploration!
Pack Good Walking Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be rocky and muddy. Waterproof, sturdy shoes are a must for comfortable hiking.
Seal Spotting Tips :seal:
Visit during low tide for the best chance to see seals lounging on the rocks. Patience is key!
Yurt Stays: Bring Essentials :sleeping_bag:
Yurts often lack bedding and amenities. Pack accordingly for a comfortable, rustic experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Charts First! :ocean:
Crucial for accessing certain trails and beaches. Low tide is your friend for exploration!
Pack Good Walking Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Trails can be rocky and muddy. Waterproof, sturdy shoes are a must for comfortable hiking.
Seal Spotting Tips :seal:
Visit during low tide for the best chance to see seals lounging on the rocks. Patience is key!
Yurt Stays: Bring Essentials :sleeping_bag:
Yurts often lack bedding and amenities. Pack accordingly for a comfortable, rustic experience.
Embrace the Silence :ear:
Experience the absolute calm and sounds of nature. Perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Dog-Friendly Trails :dog:
Many trails are suitable for dogs, like 'La Champlain.' Check park info for specific regulations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Parc national du Bic for its stunning natural beauty, diverse hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially seals. The park offers a serene escape with breathtaking coastal views. However, some find the accommodations lacking in basic amenities for the price, and certain campsites can be exposed to weather and road noise.
"Beautiful area! Almost feels like the ocean! We had lots of fun with the kids. We went on the bike trail which is awesome! You can go anywhere by using it. Only thing is that a lot of the sites are on an old farm, so basically no trees and totally exposed to the weather."
Alex V Roy
"Very beautiful. A lot of different trails. Some harder and some great to bring kids and dogs. You need to check for the tide in advance, some trails are not easily accessible when the water level is high in the morning. In the early afternoon when the water is at the lowest you can easily walk around (bring good shoes you don't mind getting muddy!") La ferme Rioux is a great spot to access it by the beach.
"Le grand tour" is definitely a must but a little difficult. For an easier one, I recommend "la Champlain" it's not too hard and dog friendly. The view at the top is wonderful, there's a nice observation deck with a few tables and benches and a toilet at the top."
Gabie.thefriendlyghost
"We stayed at Parc National Dubique in Quebec, booking a yurt in the Tolombo area. The yurt itself was fairly clean, though it could have been better. We faced a lot of bees and bugs, which became quite annoying as there’s no screen on the door. Do note that you’ll need to bring your own bedding since blankets and sheets aren't provided.
The park lacks some basic amenities that would make the experience more comfortable, especially considering the cost. There’s no shower in the yurt area; instead, there's a small, shared shower at the reception that's dark, has a noticeable odor, and limits you to a quick four-minute wash. It felt uncomfortable, and given the price, we expected a bit more convenience.
There’s also no private washroom. A shared one is available, but it lacks a sink, and there’s no running water. We had to wash our hands, dishes, and even brush our teeth with very cold water outside. While the lack of facilities was a bit challenging, the park did provide ample firewood both inside and outside the yurt, which was very generous.
On the positive side, the dishes and cooking utensils were provided, and it was convenient to have a refrigerator—though without a freezer, which was unusual. Staff occasionally drive by, and if you’re lucky to catch them, you can ask them to stop to answer questions or provide anything you need. They were very kind and respectful, though communication was a bit tricky as they spoke only French, so we used a translator.
Overall, we enjoyed our stay despite these challenges. The park is conveniently located, though its proximity to the highway does mean occasional noise from passing cars. Staying in October, we found the yurt a bit too chilly at night, as the heater was quite small, so winter stays might be particularly cold.
While the experience had its charms, we felt it was a bit pricey for the limited facilities. However, if you’re well-prepared for a rustic stay, it’s still a pleasant spot to unwind and enjoy nature."
R M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parc national du Bic is located in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region of Quebec. It's approximately a 3-hour drive from Quebec City and a longer drive from Montreal. Many visitors drive, and it's a scenic route along the St. Lawrence River.
Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to access the park and explore its various sections.
The park has a network of roads and parking areas that allow access to different trailheads and viewpoints. Cycling is also a popular way to get around on designated bike trails.
If you're driving from the west, consider stopping in Rimouski to see the submarine museum. The Gaspesie peninsula, further east, offers more national parks like Forillon.
It's about a 3-hour drive from Quebec City and roughly 5-6 hours from Montreal, making it a feasible day trip or weekend getaway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an access fee is required to enter the park. This fee typically covers your daily park access and can be purchased online or at the park's reception.
The park is generally open year-round for outdoor activities, but specific facilities and services may have seasonal hours. It's best to check the official SEPAQ website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, booking accommodations like yurts or campsites in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, as they can fill up quickly.
Discounts may be available for certain groups or through annual passes. Check the SEPAQ website for details on potential discounts or family packages.
The entrance fee typically grants you access to the park's trails, viewpoints, and natural areas for the day. Some campgrounds and specific activities might have separate fees.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include 'Le grand tour' for a challenging hike with great views, 'La Champlain' for a moderate, dog-friendly option, and 'Les Anses' for families. Always check trail conditions and tide times.
Yes, seals are frequently spotted, especially at low tide along the shoreline. The Les Anses trail is a prime location for seal watching.
Absolutely! Trails like 'Les Anses' are designed for families, offering easy access to the shore and opportunities to see wildlife.
Besides hiking, you can enjoy cycling on dedicated trails, kayaking (tours available), birdwatching, and simply enjoying the serene natural landscapes.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes, especially if you plan to explore rocky areas or trails affected by tides. Layers are recommended as weather can change.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park itself has limited dining options, often focusing on picnic areas. It's advisable to bring your own food or plan to eat in nearby towns like Rimouski.
There are grocery stores located a short drive from the park, with one mentioned as being about 8 minutes away, though it can be pricey.
Yes, the park offers numerous picnic areas, many with tables and benches, providing scenic spots to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
Campsites and yurts often come equipped with cooking utensils and sometimes a refrigerator, but you'll need to bring your own food supplies. Firewood is usually provided.
Nearby towns like Rimouski offer a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more formal dining, providing options if you prefer to eat out.
📸 📸 Photography
Cap à l'Orignal offers dramatic rock formations and river views. The coastal areas during low tide provide unique perspectives, and scenic lookouts offer panoramic shots.
Sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light for landscape photography, especially along the St. Lawrence River. Midday can be harsh, but good for wildlife shots.
Capturing the seals on the rocks, the rugged coastline, and the reflections on the water during calm periods are highly recommended.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing reflections.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the park's regulations regarding drones before your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
This trail is also dog-friendly, making it convenient for families with pets. 💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
While some accommodations might be geared towards families or groups, solo campers will find designated sites. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Parc national du Bic
This trail is also dog-friendly, making it a great option for visitors with pets. More adventurous hikers will find Le grand tour a must-do. This trail is described as challenging due to its rocky terrain, but the panoramic vistas it provides are well worth the effort.
When planning your hikes, it's crucial to check the tide charts as some trails, particularly those along the coast, are best explored during low tide to ensure accessibility and safety. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as many trails can be uneven, rocky, or muddy.
Wildlife Encounters: Seals and More
The best time to spot them is during low tide, when they can be seen resting on the rocks along the shoreline. Beyond seals, the park is a haven for birdwatching, with various species inhabiting its diverse ecosystems.
Remember that these are wild animals, and sightings are not guaranteed, but the anticipation and the possibility of a close encounter add to the park's allure. Accommodation and Amenities: A Rustic Experience
Campgrounds like Macreuse Campground offer hook-ups but are adjacent to the highway, meaning some road noise is to be expected.
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