Summer on Côte-Nord
From early June, Côte-Nord comes alive with endless opportunities for adventure across one of Québec's largest and most spectacular regions. Follow Route 138, also known as the Whale Route, from Tadoussac to Kegaska, with the St. Lawrence River almost always in sight. Enjoy whale watching cruises, sea kayaking, long sandy beaches, hiking through the boreal forest, cycling, camping, fishing and unforgettable island excursions.
In Minganie, set out for the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve of Canada, where towering limestone monoliths, secluded islands, nesting seabirds and colourful Atlantic puffins await. Farther east, Anticosti Island reveals dramatic canyons, waterfalls, world-renowned fossils and abundant wildlife, while travellers continuing to the Lower North Shore discover remote coastal communities and a region best explored by sea or air.
Summer is also the perfect time to experience Innu culture, visit museums and interpretation centres, sample fresh local flavours, and enjoy the many festivals and events held throughout Tadoussac, Baie-Comeau, Sept-Îles, Minganie and the rest of Côte-Nord.
Whether you're here to watch whales, embark on an unforgettable road trip, hike spectacular trails or reach the end of Route 138, summer on Côte-Nord begins in June—and there's an incredible amount of territory waiting to be explored.
Breathtaking landscapes of Côte-Nord
When Côte-Nord comes alive with fall colours
Autumn brings a different rhythm to Côte-Nord, but the adventure never slows down. It's the perfect season to experience the region through hunting and fishing, cozy cabin stays, ATV adventures along forest trails, or kayaking on peaceful bays and rivers. Whales are still active in the St. Lawrence, while hiking and cycling trails wind through forests ablaze with brilliant fall colours.
It's also harvest season. Northern berries, forest products, seasonal vegetables and local specialties fill public markets, roadside stands and gourmet shops across the region. Between a day in the wilderness, time on the water and stops to savour local flavours, autumn offers a quieter—but equally rewarding—way to discover Côte-Nord.
From the colourful coastline to the vast inland wilderness, mountains, rivers and the St. Lawrence River create spectacular autumn scenery. Whether you're planning a cabin getaway, a hunting trip, a scenic hike or an unforgettable road trip, fall is one of the best times to experience Côte-Nord, right through Halloween.
Côte-Nord's fall colours
A winter wonderland, just like you remember
On Côte-Nord, snowmobiling is the ultimate winter experience. From the legendary Trans-Québec Trail 3 (TQ3) to backcountry trails and the unforgettable White Route between Kegaska and Blanc-Sablon, winter opens the door to a vast playground of snow-covered forests and breathtaking northern landscapes. Alpine skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing enthusiasts can also enjoy excellent conditions at Mont Ti-Basse in Baie-Comeau and Station Gallix, located between Port-Cartier and Sept-Îles.
Winter can also be experienced at a slower pace. Explore snowy trails on snowshoes, ride a fat bike through the boreal forest or along the coast, try ice fishing, or simply take in the beauty of landscapes transformed by snow and ice. Along the St. Lawrence River, especially in the northernmost areas, keep an eye out for seals and other wildlife that thrive during the winter months.
The season isn't just about outdoor adventures. As the holiday season approaches, local boutiques, artisan workshops and specialty shops become the perfect places to discover handcrafted gifts, gourmet products and authentic treasures from Côte-Nord. Whether you're snowmobiling, skiing, snowshoeing or browsing local shops, winter on Côte-Nord is an experience to enjoy both outdoors and by the warmth of a fire.
Ah! How the snow has fallen!
Spring awakens Côte-Nord
By the end of March and early April, spring begins to arrive on Côte-Nord, bringing one of the region's most anticipated traditions: the return of snow crab season. Fishing boats head back to sea, wharves come alive, and freshly caught snow crab once again appears on local tables. More than a regional delicacy, crab season is a cherished spring tradition in many coastal communities. It's the perfect time to hit the road, stop at local fish markets, and savour the first fresh seafood of the season.
Spring also marks the return of wildlife. Thousands of migratory birds arrive along the St. Lawrence River, filling wetlands, tidal flats and coastal habitats. Tadoussac, Les Bergeronnes, Longue-Rive and Pointe-aux-Outardes Nature Park are among the best places to witness this spectacular migration, as geese, ducks, birds of prey and songbirds return to the region.
Farther east, spring brings unique natural phenomena. Along the Lower North Shore, icebergs may drift through the Gulf of St. Lawrence, creating unforgettable coastal scenery. Later, from May to June, comes the annual capelin roll, when thousands of small fish come ashore to spawn on certain beaches—a remarkable event that continues to attract families and visitors alike.
As the days grow longer and trails become accessible again, outdoor activities return across the region. Hiking, wildlife watching, photography, seaside walks, cabin getaways and the first fishing trips of the season offer countless ways to reconnect with nature. Spring is also an excellent time to explore Côte-Nord's charming villages, wharves, beaches and coastal landscapes before the busy summer season begins.
The season also celebrates Côte-Nord's culture and heritage. Museums, interpretation centres, historic sites, maritime traditions and Innu culture offer visitors a deeper understanding of the region. From fresh seafood and bird migration to cultural discoveries and outdoor adventures, spring reveals a vibrant and welcoming Côte-Nord, full of authentic experiences.
