Overview
The park protects one of Quebec's most spectacular river gorges, cutting 700 metres deep through boreal forest along the Malbaie River. It is one of two central areas of the UNESCO Charlevoix biosphere reserve (the other being Grands-Jardins National Park upstream), making it a hub for conservation-focused wilderness recreation.
Day Trips · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Connectivity
No cell phone network coverage in the park. No WiFi. For ice climbing and backcountry travel, carry a satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB/SPOT).
Etiquette
Pack out all trash. Stay on marked trails. Fires only in designated rings. Respect wildlife viewing distances. Dogs prohibited on some trails—check with SÉPAQ.
Money
SÉPAQ park entry fees apply. Camping fees vary by site type. Activity rentals (canoe, kayak, bike, snowshoes, fatbike, rabaska) available at the Equipment Rental Centre 160 m behind Le Draveur Visitors Centre. Cash and card accepted at visitor centres.
Packing
Bring layers in all seasons; rain gear essential in summer. Winter visitors need full cold-weather gear including snowshoes or skis. All camping equipment must be self-carried to backcountry sites.
Transport
Route 381 is the main access road. No public transit. SÉPAQ runs a winter tracked shuttle between Le Draveur and Équerre (fee). Private vehicle required for full park access.
Weather
Quebec boreal climate: warm summers (15-25°C), cold snowy winters (down to -20°C). Winter activities run January–March depending on snow and ice conditions. Summer can bring afternoon thunderstorms on trails.