La Mauricie National Park: Québec's Untamed Wilderness Retreat

Nestled in the heart of the Laurentian Mountains, La Mauricie National Park is one of Québec’s most underrated gems—and it’s just waiting to be explored. With over 150 lakes, dense boreal forest, and a wild variety of outdoor activities year-round, this national park is a dream come true for nature lovers, adventurers, and serenity-seekers. Whether you’re canoeing through misty waterways or snowshoeing across quiet trails, La Mauricie proves that untamed Canada still thrives just a short drive from Trois-Rivières and Shawinigan. This post from the Untamed Blog uncovers everything you need to know about one of Canada’s most beautiful national parks.

Article Outline

1. Where Is La Mauricie National Park and Why Should You Visit?

2. What Makes La Mauricie One of the Most Serene Parks in Québec?

3. How Do 150 Lakes Shape the Park’s Identity?

4. What Are the Best Things to Do in La Mauricie National Park?

5. Can You Canoe and Kayak in the Park?

6. What Wildlife and Natural Wonders Can You See Here?

7. What Is the Park’s Connection to Indigenous Peoples?

8. Is La Mauricie a Year-Round Destination?

9. How Does La Mauricie Compare to Forillon or Mingan Archipelago?

10. Why Is La Mauricie a Must for the Canada Untamed Itinerary?

Where Is La Mauricie National Park and Why Should You Visit?

Located in southern Québec between Trois-Rivières and Shawinigan, La Mauricie National Park is managed by Parks Canada. Its central location makes it an ideal destination for a weekend escape or a longer wilderness retreat.

Set within the Laurentian Mountains, this parc is rich in natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and biodiversity. For those craving a balance of rugged beauty and accessible exploration, this is the park for you.

What Makes La Mauricie One of the Most Serene Parks in Québec?

La Mauricie is a haven of calm. Picture mirrored lakes, quiet forests of coniferous and deciduous trees, and sandy beaches framed by pine. The atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for contemplative hikes or leisurely paddles.

Unlike some national parks crowded with tourists, La Mauricie’s vastness allows you to lose yourself in nature without ever feeling lost in a crowd. It’s a rare blend of remoteness and accessibility.

How Do 150 Lakes Shape the Park’s Identity?

Water is the heartbeat of La Mauricie. With over 150 lakes, the park offers incredible opportunities for swimming, paddling, fishing, and reflection. Notable ones include Wapizagonke Lake and Lac à la Pêche.

These interconnected lakes and streams create a playground for canoeists and kayakers, while also supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna, including beavers, loons, and trout.

What Are the Best Things to Do in La Mauricie National Park?

Whether you’re an adventurer or a casual explorer, La Mauricie has something for you. Hiking trails offer everything from short scenic loops to full-day backcountry treks. One of the most iconic trails is the one overlooking Wapizagonke Lake.

Picnic spots, camping sites, sandy beaches, and rustic lodges like Wabenaki and Andrew make it easy to turn a day trip into a full outdoor experience. The park staff even offer interpretive programs about the park’s history and natural environment.

Can You Canoe and Kayak in the Park?

Absolutely—La Mauricie is one of Québec’s top destinations for paddling. Canoe and kayak routes take you through serene lakes, around quiet islands, and into wildlife-rich coves.

Whether you bring your own gear or rent on-site, paddling is a quintessential part of the La Mauricie experience. Don’t miss sunrise on the water—it’s unforgettable.

What Wildlife and Natural Wonders Can You See Here?

The park is home to black bears, moose, beavers, and even species at risk. Bird watchers can spot loons, herons, and birds of prey soaring above the cliffs and lakes.

From the boreal forest to geological features like ancient cliffs and glacial lakes, La Mauricie is a naturalist’s dream. The biodiversity here speaks to the park’s importance as a protected habitat.

What Is the Park’s Connection to Indigenous Peoples?

La Mauricie sits on the traditional lands of Indigenous Peoples and holds cultural and historical significance. The region was once an important hunting and fishing territory, and traces of this history can still be found today.

Parks Canada has worked with local communities to preserve and interpret this rich cultural heritage, adding depth and meaning to your visit.

Is La Mauricie a Year-Round Destination?

Yes—winter is just as exciting as summer. Snowshoe and cross-country ski trails wind through snowy forests, offering a whole new way to see the landscape.

The park’s infrastructure is well-maintained even in colder months, making it a favorite destination for cold-weather adventurers.

How Does La Mauricie Compare to Forillon or Mingan Archipelago?

Unlike Forillon National Park with its rugged coastline or the limestone monoliths of Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, La Mauricie is all about lakes and forest.

It’s more central, less windy, and arguably more peaceful. That said, all three parks offer unique experiences and deserve a spot on any Québec nature lover’s list.

Why Is La Mauricie a Must for the Canada Untamed Itinerary?

La Mauricie embodies everything the Untamed Blog is about—authentic, immersive, and awe-inspiring outdoor experiences. It offers solitude without sacrifice, adventure without extreme difficulty, and beauty without bounds.

For adventurers and nature enthusiasts mapping out their Canada Untamed journey, this national park is a must-see.

Quick Summary: Why La Mauricie National Park Should Be on Your Radar

• Located between Shawinigan and Trois-Rivières in Québec

• Over 150 lakes including Wapizagonke Lake and Lac à la Pêche

• Ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and hiking

• Year-round activities including skiing and snowshoeing

• Abundant wildlife and stunning biodiversity

• Peaceful atmosphere perfect for unplugging

• Cultural heritage tied to Indigenous Peoples

• Rustic lodges, camping, and picnic areas

• Part of Parks Canada’s national parks network

• Perfect addition to any Canada Untamed itinerary