The end of summer heralds the magnificent colours of our beautiful province. An ideal season for long hikes, although the nights are getting colder. Autumn brings its share of adversity, but also its share of beauty through varied landscapes.

In terms of hiking, you probably know that the fall season forces you to adapt your hiking equipment, your sleeping strategy and your clothing. In addition to the fact that nights are getting shorter, it becomes important toadapt your h ikes according to the season in order to enjoy the colours of autumn in complete safety!

It is also important to know that fall comes earlier in the North andEast of Quebec and then descends on the rest of Quebec. This can help you determine the best time to observe the colourful landscapes.

I have decided to present you with a non-exhaustive list of my most memorable long hikes in Quebec in the fall.

1. Saguenay Fjord Pathway

-Length: 41.1 km

-Estimated time: 2-3 days

-Difficulty: 3.5 / 5

The Saguenay Fjord Trail is a marvel that combines mountain and view of the Fjord. It allows you to discover the colours of autumn with the fresh air of the Saguenay.

The trail can be started at 41.1 km from Tadoussac or Baie-Sainte-Marguerite. There are paid shuttles from Tadoussac, but you can also hitchhike, bike back or leave a car at each end of the trail.

This hike is pleasant and invigorating. Don't forget to stop in Tadoussac to try their microbrewery!

2. Crossing of Charlevoix

-Length: 105 km

-Estimated time: 4-6 days

-Difficulty: 3.7 / 5

Located in the Charlevoix region, this trail takes you through varied ecosystems surrounded by mountains reaching an altitude of 1,000 metres. The colours are incredibly beautiful. Although crossing Charlevoix requires a certain amount of experience and adversity, you will be rewarded with simply magnificent views.

You should note that it is possible to make the 55 km halfway crossing of Charlevoix. This option can be interesting for hikers who want to learn how to hike in complete autonomy.

3. Caps Trail

-Length: 51.5 km

-Estimated time: 2-4 days

-Difficulty: 3 / 5

Located in the Charlevoix region, the sentier des Caps is breathtaking. It follows the mountain ridge with surprising views of the river. It will allow you to have a panoramic view of the St. Lawrence!

There are also shelters along the trail. With a positive elevation of about 1,600 metres, this trail is ideal for beginners who wish to hike independently.

4. National Trail

-Length: 1,700 km

-Estimated time: N/A

-Difficulty: depending on the section

The National Trail is the long hike that every outdoor enthusiast is waiting for in Quebec! It starts in Gaspé and ends in Gatineau. Although the trail is not yet finished, in 2020 it will be possible to walk more than 1,700 km in a discontinuous manner.

This trail passes through the Outaouais, Laurentians, Lanaudière, Mauricie, Quebec, Charlevoix, North Shore Manicouagan, Lower St. Lawrence and Gaspésie regions. This variety of regions makes its route unique in Quebec. You will find easy, intermediate and difficult sections.

4. International Appalachian Trail (IAT)

-Length: 650 km

-Estimated time: 30 - 40 days

-Difficulty: 4 / 5

The mythical IAT trail is a long, surprising and magnificent hike. This trail is the longest in our beautiful province of Quebec.

Most hikers are challenged to hike it in the summer. Only a handful of hikers (a little crazier) do so in the fall, because winter arrives much faster in the Gaspé Peninsula. It is then that in September, you can already expect the first snow, but the IAT remains a colorful challenge.

The Gaspésie is also a mythical place because of its landscapes, but especially because of the people you will meet along the way.

Conclusion

Fall in Quebec is an ideal season for outdoor activities, but one that requires you to adapt your equipment and your strategy in order to safely enjoy the beauty that the province has to offer. Take full advantage of the fresh air and immerse yourself in long hikes that will bring you a lot of surprises and unforgettable moments.