The best summer hikes in the Saguenay region
With its vast green spaces, mountains and breathtaking panoramas, Saguenay Fjord is the perfect destination for hiking. Here are our top suggestions for short or long hikes.
There are many hiking trails in the region, suitable for all levels and preferences. We've classified the best hikes for you into four categories: family/beginner, sporty, full-day and long-distance.
Family or beginner hikes in the Saguenay region
Parc de la Rivière-du-Moulin
For families or those looking for an easy hike, the parc de la Rivière-du-Moulin is perfect! Located in the heart of the city, this park is much loved by locals for its accessibility, size and versatility. Indeed, there are many activities to be enjoyed here, but the main one is walking.
What a delight to hear the melodious sounds of the river's cascades and animals like birds and squirrels. The park boasts 35 kilometers of semi-urban or rustic trails, making it ideal for short or long hikes.
Le Mirador trail
This easy trail is perfect for a great family activity! Located in the enchanting Monts-Valin National Park, this path is three kilometers round trip. You should therefore allow about an hour to complete it.
It stands out for its enchanting scenery and its view of the Monts Valin once at the summit. Even though it's located in a national park, it's still very accessible for beginners and families.
Center plein air Bec-Scie
With its magnificent canyon, waterfalls, lookouts and well-maintained trails, the Center plein air Bec-Scie is definitely the place to go for a short hike in Saguenay!
In all, more than 120 kilometers of trails await you in a natural setting. It only takes a few kilometers to get to this place, which is perfect for a short family hike!
Chicoutimi Port Area
To discover Saguenay's urban charm, we invite you to visit the Port area of Chicoutimi. With its long wooden footbridge, fountains and proximity to the Saguenay River, the Zone Portuaire is a wonderful place to explore on foot. What's more, thanks to the bike path that runs alongside the Saguenay River, you can walk for quite some time without difficulty.
Sporty hikes
Statue trail
This hiking 7.6-kilometre trail in Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay is one of the most popular in the region! Along the way, you'll be able to take in all the beauty of the fjord from a number of breathtaking vantage points. And just before you turn back, you'll catch a glimpse of the famous statue of Notre-Dame-du-Saguenay, which has stood here since 1881.
Les Caps trail (to Géant viewpoint)
Still in the Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay, there's a hike that's perfect for sports enthusiasts: the les Caps trail. The 10.2-kilometre hike takes between four and five hours to complete. But be careful! Its total length is 18 kilometers (see last paragraph of this article), so you'll need to make the return trip after admiring the panorama from Le Géant viewpoint.
Le Pic-de-la-tête-de-chien trail
This trail located in the Monts-Valin National Park, is very popular: you'll undoubtedly be accompanied by other sports enthusiasts during your hike. With a length of eight kilometers and a duration of approximately 2 h 30, this nature trail will take you to an almost magical place with an infinite view of the forest of this national park. Here's a suggestion: bring your own lunch and enjoy it at the summit, admiring the beauty of the magnificent landscape.
The Eucher trail
It's the perfect place for a sporty hike. The main trail, which is the most popular, is 2.9 kilometers long. On the other hand, the eucher trail offers another trail, Les Berges, which lets you extend your hike and enjoy your outdoor activity for longer.
You can extend your hike by up to 6.4 kilometers, or by up to 12.6 kilometers if you decide to take the longer route. This free hike is a must for many hikers! What's more, it offers many exceptional panoramic views of the Saguenay Fjord.
Day trips in the Saguenay region
Sentier des Chutes (to White Mountain)
This magnificent hiking 13.8-kilometre hike takes you to the highest accessible peak in Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay. A pleasant surprise awaits you on the way up: a spectacular 360-degree view of the mountains. Allow six to seven hours to complete this challenging hike.
Pic-de-la-Hutte
Visit Pic-de-la-Hutte is one of the many hikes offered in Monts-Valin National Park. We suggest you take the long version of this 16-kilometre hike. To get there, you have to leave from the Discovery and Services Centre. A great physical challenge for hikers!
Long tours
Le Fjord trail
With a total length of 41 kilometers, this long path is part of the Fjord-du-Saguenay National Park. It is advisable to allow three to four days to complete it in its entirety. All along the way, a wide range of accommodation is available for overnight stays. What's more, there are many viewpoints within easy reach, offering breathtaking panoramas.
You need to be an experienced hiker to complete this hike, but it's well worth the effort, as it's an exceptional experience.
Les Caps Trail
This long nature trail in the Baie-Éternité sector, with a total distance varying between 27 and 32 kilometers, is accessible in many different ways. You can adapt the route to suit your needs and availability. Whatever you choose, it's advisable to complete this long hike in three days.
The tour can be taken in either direction. You can also take advantage of a shuttle service to return to the starting point after your excursion.
What's your next trip to the Saguenay?