Matane Wildlife Reserve
🛶 Gaspésie· Matane

Matane Wildlife Reserve

🚣 Water🥾 Hiking❄️ Winter Kayak Canoe Stand-up paddleboard

The Matane Wildlife Reserve offers breathtaking landscapes with its winding rivers and dense forests. It is an ideal spot for intermediate paddlers looking to explore the wilderness and observe wildlife in a peaceful setting.

Why go

Just a few hours' drive from the city, the Matane Wildlife Reserve awaits you for an unforgettable nature getaway. With its breathtaking landscapes and crystal-clear waters, it's the perfect spot for enthusiasts of water activities and hiking.

What to do

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the winding rivers by kayak or canoe and let yourself be carried by the moderate current while admiring the surrounding nature.
  • Stand-Up Paddling: Glide across the calm waters and enjoy a moment of relaxation on your stand-up paddleboard, perfect for both beginners and experts.
  • Hiking: Put on your hiking shoes and discover the picturesque trails that wind through the reserve, offering breathtaking views of the landscape.

Nearby

After a day of activities, find a quiet spot for a picnic by the water or relax while admiring the local wildlife.

Getting there

From Quebec City, expect about a 4-hour drive to reach the reserve. A perfect trip to kick off your adventure.

Good to know

Make sure to check the weather conditions before heading out, and bring enough water and snacks for your outing. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes!

Sunset

Recommended for spectacular sunsets over the water.

Wildlife

Keep an eye out for birds, deer, and other wildlife that inhabit the reserve.

Safety tips

Don’t forget your personal flotation device (PFD) and stay vigilant about weather conditions and water temperature.

Rules

Follow navigation rules and check permit information before heading out.

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Information

Characteristics

Type
River
Recommended level
Intermediate
Avg. depth
3 m
Length
20 km
Elevation
200 m
Water quality
Excellent
Avg. temperature
18 °C
Prevailing winds
Northeast
Current
Moderate (river)
Waves
Calm with light winds
Best season
June to September
Suggested distance
3 to 6 km
Average time
1.5 to 3 hours
Fishing
Allowed
ParkingToiletsDogs allowedCamping

Services and activities

Water activities

  • Canot récréatif
  • Chaloupe à rames
  • Kayak récréatif
  • Fishing
  • Pedal boat
  • Stand-up paddleboard

Land activities

  • Chasse
  • Hiking
  • Snowshoeing
  • Mountain biking

Recreation & discovery

  • Self-guided tour

Equipment rental

  • Watercraft
  • Canot récréatif
  • Chaloupe
  • Équipement de pêche
  • Kayak récréatif
  • Moteur à essence
  • Moteur électrique
  • Stand-up paddleboard
  • Land sports gear
  • Fatbiking
  • Fatbike - taille enfant

Facilities

  • Outdoor playground
  • Showers
  • Walking trail
  • Restrooms

On-site lodging

  • Cottage
  • Serviced campground
  • Camping rustique
  • Camping aménagé sans services

Food & dining

  • Picnic area
  • Café / tearoom

Services

  • Shop
  • Émission de permis
  • Ice
  • Wi-Fi

Source: SIT Québec (Tourinsoft) — open data CC-BY 4.0.

Map

7-day forecast

Frequently asked questions

What activities are offered at the Matane Wildlife Reserve?
You can enjoy water activities like kayaking, fishing, and canoeing, as well as land activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and hunting.
What types of accommodation are available?
The reserve offers chalets, developed campgrounds (with 1, 2, or 3 services), as well as rustic and unserviced campgrounds.
Are there equipment rental services available?
Yes, you can rent various equipment for water and land activities, including kayaks, canoes, and fatbikes.
Is the Matane Wildlife Reserve family-friendly?
Yes, it is suitable for adults, teenagers, and children, and has facilities like an outdoor playground for kids.
Are there dining options on site?
Yes, there is a picnic area as well as a café and tea room on site.