Wondering what to do in Port-Cartier on your next Côte-Nord getaway? Here, the St. Lawrence River, rivers, beaches and boreal forest create an incredible playground for exploration and adventure. Whether you're travelling with family, as a couple or with friends, Port-Cartier makes it easy to combine outdoor activities, hiking, water sports, fishing, beaches, heritage and culture.
Outdoor Adventures Surrounded by Côte-Nord Scenery
Nature lovers have plenty of ways to explore Port-Cartier. Discover the trails of Parc de la Taïga, located on Patterson Island, where approximately two kilometres of trails wind through boreal forest vegetation and offer views of the Rivière aux Rochers and its impressive waterfalls.
At Base de plein air Les Goélands, located along the coast, enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, beach outings, birdwatching and water sports. The Baie des Îles de Mai is also ideal for sea kayaking, with kayaks and paddleboards available for rent on site.
In winter, the area transforms into a snowy playground with activities including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snow tubing.
Beaches, the St. Lawrence River and Water Activities
In Port-Cartier, the St. Lawrence is an essential part of the experience. Parc et plage Rochelois features a large public sandy beach, areas for walking and beautiful views of the Lady Era shipwreck, which has rested offshore since 1977.
Farther west, the Rivière-Pentecôte area opens the door to an even wilder side of the Côte-Nord. Beaches, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, sport fishing and water activities are among the possibilities for visitors looking to explore beyond the usual routes.
Hiking, Kayaking and Fishing in the Backcountry
For an even deeper immersion in nature, explore the Port-Cartier–Sept-Îles Wildlife Reserve. Covering an immense territory of 6,423 km², the reserve features more than 200 accessible bodies of water and offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, canoe camping, kayaking and fishing.
The reserve is also home to spectacular Walker Lake, surrounded by towering cliffs, as well as trails leading to remarkable landscapes, including the Montagne Trail and MacDonald Falls Trail.
Discover the Rivière aux Rochers and Atlantic Salmon
Right in the heart of Port-Cartier, the Rivière aux Rochers offers an experience closely connected to the destination's natural environment.
At Parc de la rivière aux Rochers, visitors can observe the Atlantic salmon run and visit an interpretation pavilion dedicated to this iconic species. Trails and picnic areas also make it a great place to slow down and enjoy the surroundings.
Walks, Heritage and Culture
There's more to Port-Cartier than outdoor adventure. The Promenade du P'tit Quai, located in the historic Shelter Bay area, follows the Rivière aux Rochers and offers views of the St. Lawrence and Patterson Island. Rest areas, a lookout, a children's playground and nearby walking and cycling routes make it an enjoyable stop during a visit.
To discover more about the destination's history, follow the Shelter Bay and Patterson Island Heritage Circuit on foot, by bicycle or by car. You can also visit the Port-Cartier History Interpretation Centre, which explores the major forestry and mining developments that helped shape the Côte-Nord.
Culture also has its place in a Port-Cartier getaway. Located on McCormick Island, Café-théâtre Graffiti presents shows, events, movies and exhibitions in an intimate setting. The island itself also features beaches, trails and picnic areas.
Port-Cartier – A Destination to Discover in Every Season
The adventure doesn't stop when the snow arrives. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sliding, snowmobiling and other winter activities offer completely different ways to experience Port-Cartier and its northern landscapes.
From beaches to forest trails, kayaking and fishing to the waterfalls of the Rivière aux Rochers and the vast wilderness of the wildlife reserve, Port-Cartier is a destination where every stay can be filled with activities, outdoor adventures and discoveries.
Take the time to venture beyond Route 138 and explore a remarkable Côte-Nord destination shaped by the St. Lawrence River, rivers, forests and wide-open spaces.