6 Best Outdoor Activities to Experience Québec’s Stunning Fall Foliage
Vibrant golden yellow, rustic orange and ruby red; the colours of fall will take your breath away, and it will be almost impossible to visit the city (and its surroundings) without taking an obscene amount of photos. The best way to experience the fall foliage is to spend as much time outdoors as possible. While walking along the Samuel-De Champlain Promenade or the Plains of Abraham is recommended, try outdoor sports and activities for true immersion.
Marais du Nord, Francis Fontaine
1Hike Among the Trees
When it comes to nature, Québec is the land of milk and honey. While hiking is recommended year round, autumn is by far the best for those who love vibrant colours, slightly cooler weather and less people on the trails. Here are some of the best trails to hike during your time in Québec.
Yan Lasalle
2Create Your Own Cycling Tour de Québec
Not all of us can be professional cyclists, but with good roads and breathtaking scenery, anyone can rent a bicycle and explore outside the city. Cycle around Île d’Orléans, stop for chocolate-dipped cones, cheese and fresh fruits; and make time to admire the fall foliage as it blankets Mont-Saint-Anne. Cycle Chemin du Roy (Route 138) which stretches from Montréal to Québec City. A delightful journey that includes quaint towns, historic sites, beautiful churches and gourmet food. Challenge yourself to explore as many bike paths in the Québec Region as you possibly can.
Empire 47
3Get An Adrenaline High On a Mountain Bike
Adrenaline, challenging mountain biking trails and colourful scenery abound just outside Québec City. Barrel down the downhill and cross-country trails at Mont-Sainte-Anne or venture up to Vallée-Bras-du-Nord, Sentiers du Moulin, Empire 47 or Massif de Charlevoix.
- Arbraska Duchesnay, Francis Fontaine
4Swing Through the Trees
Set out for a day at Arbraska Chauveau or Arbraska Duchesnay. Zip your way through the golden yellow, burnt orange and ruby red leaves. Walk along boardwalks suspended high among the treetops. There are several courses to choose from, including a few that are child friendly.
- Sépaq - Parc de la Chute-Montmorency
5Soar Your Way to New Heights
In case you’re not familiar, Via Ferrata is a cross between hiking and climbing and usually involves shimming along thick cables stretched across gorgeous gorges. Montmorency Falls Park is an excellent site for Via Ferrata and offers breathtaking views of the waterfalls.
Head to Canyon Sainte-Anne for zipping across the void at nearly 50 km/h (30 m/h) on the tandem AirCanyon.
Luc Rousseau
6Paddle Through #naturesbeauty
Journey to Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier, just half an hour outside the city, and spend a day kayaking or canoeing down the Jacques-Cartier River. Be warned, there is a good chance you won’t want to leave the river as it is quiet peaceful and especially beautiful in autumn. If you feel so inclined, bring a GoPro or waterproof camera.
