La Mauricie National Park
La Mauricie National Park protects rolling Laurentian hills, countless lakes and streams, and mixed Acadian–boreal forest between Shawinigan and La Tuque in Quebec’s Mauricie region. Known for classic canoe-camping routes and lake-to-lake portages, the park offers beaches, waterfalls, and a scenic parkway linking viewpoints and day-use areas.
| Location | Mauricie region of Quebec (between Shawinigan and La Tuque) |
|---|---|
| Province | Quebec |
| Established | 1970 |
| Area (approx.) | ≈ 536 km² |
| Notable features | Canoe routes and portages among 150+ lakes; Wapizagonke Lake and Waber Falls (Chutes Waber); panoramic lookouts along a scenic parkway; beaches and picnic areas |
| Nearby communities | Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc, Shawinigan (incl. Saint-Jean-des-Piles), La Tuque; regional hub: Trois-Rivières |
Overview
Set on the Canadian Shield, La Mauricie is a landscape of rounded hills, clear lakes, and forested valleys shaped by glaciers and long forestry history. Today it’s a paddler’s and hiker’s park: quiet backcountry lakes linked by short portages, family-friendly beaches and lookouts, and fall colours that light up the hardwood slopes.
Landscapes and ecosystems
- Lakes and waterways: Over 150 lakes—from small kettle ponds to long canoeing lakes—connected by streams and short portages; classic routes radiate from Wapizagonke.
- Waterfalls and cascades: The best-known objective is Waber Falls (Chutes Waber), reached by canoe/portage plus a forest hike; smaller cascades dot other valleys.
- Forests & wildlife: Mixed hardwoods (maple, birch) and conifers (spruce, fir, hemlock, pine) host moose, black bear, beaver, fox, and common loon; wetlands support waterfowl and amphibians.
- Shield hills & lookouts: Granite/gneiss ridges provide viewpoints over lake chains and autumn foliage.
Things to do
- Canoeing & portaging: Signposted canoe routes with reservable backcountry sites; rentals and guided outings operate in season at main access points.
- Hiking & viewpoints: Short loops to lakes and lookouts, half-day ridge walks, and the popular Waber Falls approach (paddle + hike).
- Beaches & day-use: Designated swimming beaches and picnic areas on major lakes; family-friendly facilities and boardwalks.
- Cycling & scenic driving: The parkway links entrances with pullouts, short trails, and panoramas; selected multi-use paths allow cycling.
- Winter: When conditions allow, snowshoeing and Nordic skiing on marked trails; check seasonal operations.
Access and visitor services
Two main entrances—often referred to as the Saint-Mathieu and Saint-Jean-des-Piles sectors—connect to a scenic parkway across the park. Visitor centres provide trip planning, exhibits, and permits. The nearest services are in Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc and Shawinigan; Trois-Rivières is the closest larger centre.
- Camping & roofed stays
Frontcountry campgrounds (with serviced/unserviced sites and oTENTik units in season) anchor each sector. Backcountry tent pads on canoe routes are reservable and require permits. Book early for peak summer and autumn weekends.
Safety and low-impact travel
Weather can change quickly on exposed lakes—carry PFDs and be prepared for wind. Portage trails and rocky landings can be slippery; wear sturdy footwear. Store food securely and give wildlife space. Follow fire bans, respect seasonal closures, and practice Leave No Trace to protect shorelines and trails.
See also
- Forillon National Park • Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve • Mauricie (region)
- National parks of Canada • Travel in Canada • Geography of Canada
External links (official)
- Parks Canada — La Mauricie National Park: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/qc/mauricie
- Parks Canada — Reservations (camping/backcountry/roofed): https://reservation.pc.gc.ca
- Parks Canada — Important bulletins (closures, wildlife, fire bans): https://parks.canada.ca/amnc-nmca/imp