Scenic Views · Camping & Hiking · Quebec
A clifftop trail network above the St. Lawrence at Petite-Rivière-Saint-François, QC, known for river views in summer and groomed snowshoe and cross-country ski trails in winter. Paid access; huts and camping along the way.
The Sentier des Caps de Charlevoix follows the high capes above the St. Lawrence, with lookouts over the river, Île aux Coudres and the Laurentian hills. It runs as a long-distance route with shorter loops from the welcome areas, and the views from its rocky ridges are what hikers remember.
Winter is when it really shines, according to reviewers. Snowshoe and cross-country ski trails are groomed and well marked, staff at the welcome centre are friendly and quick with rentals, and there are several warming huts along the ski trails. The lodge has been renovated and has a wax room, and sleds are available for small children. It's run by a local non-profit, and a long-time skier said it's very well managed.
The network offers everything from a half-day outing to a multi-day trek with rustic huts and tent platforms along the way. Trails range from easy to advanced, so families and experienced skiers can both find something. There's no drinking water at the centre, so bring your own.
Summer can be a different story. One hiker, after weeks of rain, found wide trails that were very wet and overgrown and turned back after 1.5 km, and felt it was more of a ski network than a hiking trail in that section. Snowshoers also ask that people without snowshoes stay off the packed trails.
Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 235 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.
