Gaspésie is a land of contrasts. While 25 of the highest peaks in Québec are found in the interior of this vast peninsula, the Gaspé coast is surrounded by unique beaches and unforgettable views. Not only is this region home to legendary Percé Rock, but it also boasts four national parks, world-renowned salmon rivers, a rich history and a multitude of talented chefs, artists and artisans.
The scenery of Gaspésie is also charming in the winter. Mountain sports enthusiasts will be thrilled by the many opportunities to explore the Chic-Choc Mountains and other parts of the Appalachians while skiing, snowshoeing or snowboarding. In addition, the Gaspé Peninsula is renowned as a snowmobile destination, offering nearly 2000 kilometres (1200 miles) of trails with breathtaking views.
Do you love the grandeur of winter landscapes? Are you looking for a feeling of total freedom? Are you craving the adrenaline rush that comes with mountain activities? Then, backcountry skiing is made for you. And the Chic-Choc Mountains, in the Gaspésie region in Eastern Canada, are a true paradise for this.
Coming from Western Canada with little prior knowledge of the region, I was pleasantly surprised to discover world-class alpine skiing. The underrated Gaspé Peninsula is the best powder skiing you’ll get east of the Rockies, which I got to experience first-hand during my five-day trip with fellow photographer Callum Snape.
When I calculated that we had travelled 10,794 km on the roads of the maritime regions of Québec this summer, I was shocked! The maritime regions of Québec cover a vast territory. Why did we embark upon such a long journey? To capture video footage of the best these magnificent regions have to offer.
Year-round, I’m a big fan of the great outdoors! In the winter, I swap my hiking boots for snowshoes or skis and set off to explore the trails, whether in national parks or elsewhere. Here are a few suggestions of places to visit for your next snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or backcountry skiing trip.
Before I came to Québec for the first time, I’d made a list of all the things I wanted to do during my year of study in Matane, in Gaspésie. I was very impressed by the variety of wildlife found on this territory. What I didn’t anticipate was the awe I would feel seeing these animals.
Fall. Just hearing the word awakens the senses. Red and orange leaves, the fresh aroma of the damp earth, the beginning of sweater weather... The residents of the maritime regions of Québec take full advantage of this season. Why not join them?
The International Appalachian Trail (IAT) in Québec criss-crossing the Gaspé Peninsula will undoubtedly arouse your interest. The IAT offers numerous hiking and backpacking options, from a two-hour-long stroll in the woods or along the shoreline, to the full-on 40-day-long trip.
You can’t really miss La Maison du Pêcheur when you visit Percé because of its prime location literally steps away from the wharf where depart tour boats heading for Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock.