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Chic-Choc Mountains

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Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)

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The Chic-Choc Mountains are a prominent mountain range on the Gaspé Peninsula in southeastern Quebec, forming the northernmost part of the Appalachian Mountains in Canada. Extending for about 95 kilometers parallel to the Saint Lawrence River, the range rises abruptly from the surrounding coastal lowlands. The highest peak is Mount Jacques-Cartier, reaching 1,268 meters, which is the second-highest mountain in the province of Quebec. Geologically, the range is composed of a mix of volcanic and metamorphic rocks formed during the Taconic orogeny approximately 450 million years ago. The summits feature broad, flat plateaus that host a unique alpine tundra ecosystem, the southernmost of its kind in eastern North America. This habitat is critical for the survival of the only woodland caribou herd remaining south of the Saint Lawrence River. Most of the range is protected within the Parc national de la Gaspésie, a major hub for scientific research and ecotourism. Hikers are drawn to the area for its challenging trails and remarkable vistas that often include views of the nearby gulf.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-12-12-8-17121615115-2-8
Rain mm6967717590949490961019284

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The region is typically accessed via the main highway routes crossing the Gaspé Peninsula, leading to park entrances where various trailheads and visitor centers are located.
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Best season
Summer and early autumn generally offer excellent conditions for hiking, while the winter months are famously popular for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing activities.
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Terrain & paths
The landscape is home to deeply eroded peaks, vast alpine tundras, and dense forests, featuring rugged, steep trails that require good physical stamina to navigate successfully.
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What to bring
High-quality hiking boots and layered, wind-resistant clothing are essential, and specialized backcountry equipment is mandatory for those visiting during the winter season.
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Parking
Established parking areas are generally found at the main park visitor centers and designated trailheads, providing safe spots to leave vehicles before heading into the wild.
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Safety
Visitors must be prepared for sudden and severe weather changes typical of alpine environments, and wildlife encounters require maintaining a respectful, safe distance.
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Time needed
While some shorter scenic trails can be completed in a half-day, fully experiencing the grandeur of the range usually warrants a multi-day backcountry adventure.

Geography

Coordinates
48.90000, -66.00000

Facts

  • Mount Jacques-Cartier is the highest peak at 1,268 meters.
  • The mountains were formed approximately 450 million years ago.
  • The range hosts the only caribou herd found south of the St. Lawrence River.
  • Parc national de la Gaspésie was established in 1937.
  • The name 'Chic-Choc' comes from the Mi'kmaq word meaning 'impassable barrier.'
  • Snow remains on the high plateaus frequently until late July.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

New RichmondNew Richmond37 km · NWExplore →
Sainte-Anne-des-MontsSainte-Anne-des-Monts55 km · SExplore →
BeresfordBeresford64 km · NWExplore →
BonaventureBonaventure69 km · NWExplore →
Port of Sept-ÎlesPort of Sept-Îles72 km · SEExplore →
New CarlisleNew Carlisle85 km · NWExplore →
PaspébiacPaspébiac93 km · NWExplore →
Lower NapanLower Napan112 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Chic-Choc Mountains (3)

Mont Olivine🌿 nature

A summit in the Choc Mountains of Quebec, named after the mineral olivine.

Chute du Diable🌿 nature

A waterfall in the Choc Mountains, plunging into a rocky gorge.

Mont Xalibu🌿 nature

Mont Xalibu: a mountain in the Chic-Chocs range of the Gaspé Peninsula, offering scenic hiking.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where are the Chic-Choc Mountains located?
On the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec, part of the Appalachian range.
Are there caribou there?
Yes, home to the only caribou herd south of the St. Lawrence River.
What is the highest mountain in the range?
Mount Jacques-Cartier, standing at 1,268 meters.
Can you ski there in winter?
Yes, it is very popular for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing.
When do the alpine plants bloom?
Typically in July on the sparse summit plateaus.
Chic-Choc Mountains: where is it located?
Chic-Choc Mountains is located in Canada.
Chic-Choc Mountains: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mont Olivine, Chute du Diable, Mont Xalibu.
Chic-Choc Mountains: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Chic-Choc Mountains: why is it worth visiting?
The Chic-Choc Mountains are a prominent mountain range on the Gaspé Peninsula in southeastern Quebec, forming the northernmost part of the Appalachian Mountains in Canada.
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Nearby cities

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A city across the river from Ottawa, part of the National Capital Region.
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Saguenay — Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)
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A city formed by the merger of several cities on the Saguenay River.
Trois-Rivières — Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)
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A historic city at the confluence of the St.
Lévis — Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)
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Levis sits on the south shore of the St.
Sherbrooke — Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)
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The main city in the Eastern Townships region of Quebec.
Terrebonne — Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)
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A growing suburb on the north shore of Montreal.
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu — Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)
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Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu lies on the Richelieu River south of Montreal.
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Granby is a city in Quebec's Eastern Townships and a regional centre along the Yamaska River.
Drummondville — Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)
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A city in central Quebec, known for its 'Mondial des Cultures' summer festival.
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Known as the 'Gateway to the Laurentians'.
Saint-Hyacinthe — Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)
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Saint-Hyacinthe sits on the Yamaska River in Quebec's Montérégie region.
Dollard-des-Ormeaux — Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)
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A multicultural suburban city on the Island of Montreal, known for its extensive parks and green residential areas.
Blainville — Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)
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An affluent suburban city north of Montreal.

History & landmarks

Baie-Saint-Paul — Chic-Choc Mountains (Canada)
Baie-Saint-Paul
Baie-Saint-Paul serves as the cultural center of the Charlevoix region.