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Forillon National Park: Where Land Meets Sea

Discover dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and rich history at Quebec's Forillon National Park, where the mountains meet the sea.

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Forillon National Park, located on the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec, is a stunning blend of land and sea. Established in 1970, it protects a diverse landscape of forests, cliffs, beaches, and marine environments. The park offers a wide array of activities, from hiking and whale watching to exploring historical sites.

A brief summary to Forillon Centre d'accueil et de découverte National Park

Local tips

  • Visit the Information and Discovery Centre to learn about the park's natural and cultural heritage.
  • Pack layers, as the weather can change quickly, especially near the coast.
  • Bring binoculars for wildlife watching, especially for seabirds and whales.
  • Reservations are recommended for camping, especially during the summer months.
  • Check the Parks Canada website for updated information on trail conditions and park activities.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Forillon National Park is accessible via Provincial Route 132, which circles the Gaspé Peninsula. From Gaspé, follow Route 132 West, the main entrance to the park at La Penouille is approximately 19 km away. From there, continue 14 km on Route 132 and Boulevard de Grande-Grave to reach the Petit-Gaspé tollbooth, where you can pay the park entrance fee. Parking lots are available at various points of interest within the park, including La Penouille, Cap-des-Rosiers, and Grande-Grave Wharf. Parking fees may apply.

  • Public Transport

    The RéGÎM bus Route 21 connects L'Anse-au-Griffon with Place Jacques-Cartier in downtown Gaspé, stopping at the La Penouille Visitor Centre and Fort Peninsula. A one-way fare from Gaspé to La Penouille is approximately $5 CAD. Check the RéGÎM website for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.

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Discover more about Forillon Centre d'accueil et de découverte National Park

Forillon National Park, a jewel on Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula, invites you to discover its dramatic natural beauty and rich history. Established in 1970 as Quebec's first national park, Forillon encompasses 244 square kilometers of diverse ecosystems, where the Appalachian Mountains meet the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The park's landscape is a captivating mix of soaring limestone cliffs, pebble beaches, and rugged hills. Explore the boreal forest, home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, deer, black bears, and lynx. The coastline is a haven for seabirds, with thousands nesting on the steep cliffs. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the shores and whales breaching in the waters offshore. Forillon's human history stretches back 9,000 years, with archaeological evidence of early settlements at Penouille. In the 18th century, European fishermen established villages along the coast, drawn by the abundant cod. Visit Grande-Grave, a restored fishing village, to experience the traditional lifestyle of the region's fishermen. Explore the Hyman & Sons General Store and the Blanchette House to step back in time. However, the park's creation was not without controversy. In 1970, the government expropriated land from 225 families to create the park, causing significant disruption to their lives and communities. Today, Parks Canada works with the Association of Persons Expropriated from Forillon and their Descendants to commemorate this difficult history. Forillon offers over 125 km of marked hiking trails, with stunning views of the forest, Gulf of St. Lawrence, and Gaspé Bay. Hike to the Mont-Saint-Alban observation tower for panoramic vistas, or explore the Les Graves trail to reach the iconic Cape Gaspé Lighthouse, also known as Land's End. Discover Fort Peninsula, a World War II shore battery, and learn about the area's maritime heritage. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, historical insights, or simply a peaceful escape, Forillon National Park promises an unforgettable experience.

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