Discovering Tursujuq: The Wild Majesty of Quebec's Northern Jewel

Hidden away in the vast wilderness of northern Quebec, along the east side of Hudson Bay, lies a protected area that defies imagination: Tursujuq National Park. This extraordinary space is home to the pristine Richmond Gulf, the rarely seen Clearwater Lake, and unique geological structures like cuestas and craters carved by ancient meteorites. As the largest national park in Quebec, Tursujuq is not just vast in size but rich in cultural history, Inuit heritage, and wild biodiversity. This article explores the coolest facts and natural wonders of Tursujuq, inviting travelers and nature lovers to uncover this hidden paradise of Nunavik.

What Makes Tursujuq National Park So Special?

Tursujuq National Park covers over 26,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest in eastern Canada. Its defining feature is the Richmond Gulf, known locally as a spectacular inland fjord fed by brackish waters and dramatic tides. From towering cliffs to taiga, the park offers one of the most diverse ecosystems in Quebec's far north. You can find polar bears, caribou, and beluga and seal in the same day—if you're lucky.

What Is the Story Behind the Name "Tursujuq"?

The name "Tursujuq" means "resembling a large body of water" in Inuktitut, a nod to the wide-open expanses of Clearwater Lake, Richmond Gulf, and the surrounding water systems. The Inuit of Nunavik and Cree communities have used the region for hunting and fishing for generations. It is also close to the village of Umiujaq, which acts as the main gateway into the park.

Where Exactly Is Tursujuq Located?

Located along the coast of Hudson Bay, just east of Umiujaq, the park includes the Clearwater Lakes (also known as Lac Wiyashakimi), which are believed to have formed from a double meteorite impact around 290 million years ago. The Richmond Gulf—known for its dramatic cuestas and tide-fed inlets—sits at the heart of the park.

What Flora and Fauna Live in the Park?

The flora and fauna here are as wild as they come. The tundra, taiga, and boreal ecosystems support everything from whitewater trout to herds of caribou. Marine mammals like belugas and seals patrol the coastal waters, while polar bears are known to roam the ice-edge in colder months. Birdwatchers may also spot migratory species that pass through this rarely visited haven.

What Makes Richmond Gulf So Unique?

Richmond Gulf (or Lac Guillaume-Delisle) is a brackish inland sea cut off from Hudson Bay by a narrow channel. Its inland cliffs rise dramatically over the water, resembling the Torngat Mountains or even fjords east of the Rockies. Strong tides, rapids, and wind make parts of it a challenging destination for even seasoned kayakers and canoeists.

What’s So Special About Clearwater Lake?

Clearwater Lake (also known as Lac Wiyashakimi or the Clearwater Lakes) is actually a double crater lake—a rare geological formation caused by meteorite impacts. These craters span over 30 kilometers and are still studied for their unique sediment layers and history. Clearwater is also known for its pristine clarity, making it one of the purest bodies of water in the world.

What Can You Do in Tursujuq National Park?

While the park remains largely undeveloped, it’s a magnet for backcountry adventurers. You can go kayaking, rafting, or canoeing in some of Quebec’s wildest rivers. There are opportunities to camp, explore via floatplane, or take part in guided cultural tours led by local Inuit and Cree guides.

Who Are the Communities Around the Park?

The village of Umiujaq serves as the main access point. This small Inuit community is deeply tied to the landscape and acts as a steward of the park's natural and cultural values. Tasiujaq and Kangiqsualujjuaq are other nearby communities connected to Nunavik’s growing network of parks like Pingualuit and Kuururjuaq.

Why Should You Visit Tursujuq?

If you crave remoteness, rugged beauty, and awe-inspiring natural history, Tursujuq is a once-in-a-lifetime destination. It’s one of the best places in Canada to experience northern lights, untouched landscapes, and the profound silence of northern Quebec. This park embodies the spirit of Nunavik—raw, real, and rich with stories.

Highlights to Remember

• Tursujuq National Park is Quebec’s largest, covering over 26,000 square kilometers.

• Home to Richmond Gulf, a unique brackish inland sea with fjord-like cliffs.

• Includes the Clearwater Lake craters, one of the world’s most pristine meteorite impact sites.

• Offers rare glimpses of polar bears, beluga whales, caribou, and marine mammals.

• A hub for Inuit and Cree heritage, near the community of Umiujaq.

• Ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and backcountry expeditions in northern Quebec.

Ready to explore the land of the Inuit and see the Crystal Eye of Quebec for yourself? Tursujuq is waiting.