Important Things to Know
1. Information Regarding Your Safety
- The National Trail in Bas-Saint-Laurent is marked with red and white signs, while access routes to the trail are marked in blue and white.
- The trail is not patrolled. You are responsible for your own safety and that of the members of your group throughout your hike. It is not recommended to venture there alone, especially after dark and/or during the winter season.
- We recommend carrying a cell phone with you. However, please note that service is unavailable in several areas. Clearings and elevated locations are generally the best spots for cellular communication. In case of emergency, dial 911 or *4141 (cell phone only).
- Hiking in a natural environment involves certain risks. You must always ensure that you have the physical ability, skills, and experience required for this activity.
- It is important to be aware of the risks associated with your route and to carry appropriate equipment. We recommend wearing proper hiking shoes or boots suitable for forest trails, bringing sufficient drinking water, carrying a first aid kit, and having the necessary information about the route you plan to take.
- Before leaving, make sure to inform someone about the route you will be taking and the time you expect to return.
- Hiking during hunting season is permitted but not recommended. If you still decide to use the trail during this period, make sure you are visible and audible to hunters. Wearing a safety vest and carrying a whistle are strongly recommended.
- To develop the 144 km of the National Trail in Bas-Saint-Laurent, we were fortunate to obtain access rights across numerous private properties. We therefore ask that you stay on the trail, respect the environment, and carry out your garbage when applicable.
- If you notice any maintenance issues on the trail, we would appreciate hearing about them upon your return.
2. Access to the National Trail in Bas-Saint-Laurent
- Access to the National Trail is free of charge. However, the following sections — Cascades Sutherland, Montagne à Fourneau, Touladi, La Grande Baie, and Dégelis — pass entirely or partially through the Témiscouata Lake National Park. You must therefore purchase a daily access pass or hold a valid SÉPAQ network access card to visit these areas.
- Dogs are permitted on the National Trail in Bas-Saint-Laurent except on the sections located within the Témiscouata Lake National Park. In addition, leash use is mandatory within certain municipalities (for example: Notre-Dame-des-Neiges).
3. Useful Links for Additional Information
- Dates for hunting seasons (the National Trail is located in Zone 2 West):
https://www.quebec.ca/tourisme-et-loisirs/activites-sportives-et-de-plein-air/chasse-sportive/periodes-limites - Staying safe around black bears:
https://mffp.gouv.qc.ca/la-faune/securite-sante-maladies/vivre-securite-avec-ours-noir/ - Water disinfection and purification:
https://www.nationalgeographic.fr/voyage/2020/01/survie-comment-trouver-de-leau-et-la-rendre-potable
https://www.randonner-malin.com/quel-systeme-choisir-pour-purifier-leau-en-randonnee/ - Be aware of toxic plants, including giant hogweed (“Berce du Caucase”). Learn how to identify it here:
https://www.environnement.gouv.qc.ca/biodiversite/nuisibles/berce-caucase/index.htm
