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All the
Activities
Everyone's been spreading the word... Winter or summer, Vallée Bras-du-Nord is incomparable! An outdoor destination less than an hour from Quebec City, with activities to please everyone!
Biking, hiking, kayaking or canoeing — not to mention canyoning-style climbing and Via Ferrata… This versatile outdoor park awaits nature lovers year-round, just one hour from Québec City, whether with family or friends. Here, every adventure supports a form of tourism that respects nature and local communities, embracing a sustainable and egenerative approach to the land.
Pascale Anctil
Combining short and long forest hikes, the different trails are surrounded by breathtaking peaceful and one of a kind point of views
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Tyler Ravelle
Vallée Bras-du-Nord, located near Québec City, is internationally renowned for its mountain biking trails that are as epic as they are breathtaking.
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Amy Gagnon
Canoeing and kayaking down the Bras-du-Nord River is the pioneering family activity that has charmed and made the Valley famous. Discover this legendary route by reserving one of our boats!
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"Vertaco", a company of great renown, offers novices several well-watered courses on the mountainside.
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NORR
This adventure activity combines hiking and climbing. The via ferrata du Nord is a mountain "hike" secured by steel cables fixed to the rock face.
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Colin Rousseau
In its cold season, the Vallée Bras-du-Nord hiking area has a second vocation: winter hiking.
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Pascale Anctil
Explore winter differently on a fatbike at Vallée Bras-du-Nord! Ride on accessible and fun trails, accompanied by the sound of studs, the river, and birds. A unique experience for complete disconnection.
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Alysson Gallant
Winter lovers will discover a new way to enjoy the cold season in Vallée Bras-du-Nord: Hok skiing, a clever blend of snowshoeing and Nordic skiing to explore snowy trails in complete freedom.
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Xavier Caron
Dive into adventure this winter with our new mountain skiing experience! Unforgettable runs and breathtaking views await you in the heart of Vallée Bras-du-Nord.
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Charles Queinnec
This adventure activity combines hiking and climbing. The via ferrata du Nord is a mountain "hike" secured by steel cables fixed to the rock face.
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Online booking
Required
Right of access is mandatory to access activities. You must purchase your daily access online and present your QR code upon arrival.
Download the trail map on the app Ondago.
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Outdoor Activities
Outdoor Activities in Portneuf, Near Québec City: Vallée Bras-du-Nord Through the Seasons
An Immersive Experience, Summer and Winter Alike
Nestled in the heart of Québec’s natural landscape, Vallée Bras-du-Nord is an outdoor adventure cooperative located just 60 minutes from Québec City. Here, every nature outing becomes an unforgettable outdoor getaway: over 150 km of marked trails, 17 km of navigable river, towering cliffs, and pristine boreal forests. Whether you're with family, friends, a partner, or on a nature-inspired team building retreat, you'll find activities designed for all ages and every season, in an authentic, eco-friendly, and safe environment.
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Summer activities
Hiking
Hiking – 9 groomed and marked trails wind through the valley, from the beginner-friendly Bras-du-Nord Trail (7.2 km) to the spectacular Sentier du Philosore. Scenic views of waterfalls and the river invite you to reconnect with nature. Dogs are allowed on several routes, making it a great outdoor activity with your pet.
- Total distance: 80 km of maintained trails.
- Level: Beginner to advanced – perfect for an outdoor activity for adults or a family-friendly outdoor adventure.
- Services: Easy parking, Ondago trail maps, nearby accommodations (see options).
Mountain bike
Mountain Biking – Over 100 km of singletracks, berms, and natural features, internationally recognized. Whether you're riding in discovery mode or tackling enduro descents, enjoy a smooth and playful outdoor adventure.
- Sucré, River, Gravity: trails suited for every skill level.
- Mountain bike, e-bike, and fatbike rentals available on-site.
- Perfect for an adventure weekend or an outdoor team-building activity.
Canoe & Kayak
Canoe and Kayak – Paddle down 17 km of calm river through untouched natural landscapes. The canoe-camping option lets you extend the adventure under the stars.
- Shuttle included: easy and convenient return transport.
- All boats, paddles, and life jackets are provided.
- Perfect for a group outdoor activity or a couple’s getaway.
Canyoning
Canyoning – Try your hand at waterfall climbing at the Cascade de l’Île de Pâques site or venture onto the Delaney Falls. Guaranteed thrills in a setting of moss and gneiss rock.
Via Ferrata (Summer)
Via Ferrata (Summer) – Move along suspended terraces overlooking the valley: a unique blend of hiking and climbing.
Winter activities
Snowshoeing
Winter Hiking – The same trails take on a magical winter atmosphere: snow-covered fir trees, a muffled silence, and icy footbridges make for a rejuvenating winter outdoor activity.
Fat bike
Fat Bike – Ride along packed snow trails for kilometres, with your tires crunching over the frozen surface, in rhythm with the icy river. On-site rentals available; no experience required.
Ski-Hok
Hok Ski – Hok skis combine the flotation of snowshoes with the glide of skis, making it easy to explore the boreal forest.
Back-Country Skiing
Backcountry Skiing – Guided off-trail descents across more than 35 hectares of skiable terrain: a must for powder-seeking adventurers.
Via Ferrata (Winter)
Via Ferrata (Winter) – Climb the frozen rock face with crampons on your feet and frost in the air—an unforgettable icy adventure.
Why Choose Vallée Bras-du-Nord?
- Accessibility Close to Québec City, with multiple parking areas and a warm welcome. See the starting points.
- Eco-responsible: Your visit supports the cooperative’s regenerative tourism model.
- Four Seasons: Outdoor activities adapted for summer, winter, spring, and fall
- Safety: Certified guides, marked trails, and inspected equipment.
- Variety of Lodging: Cabins, yurts, campsites, and shelters—stay overnight right at the trailhead!
Practical Tips & FAQ
How do I book my activities?
You must purchase your access passes online in advance. Book now >
Are dogs allowed?
Visitors can enjoy several outdoor activities with their dog, as long as it is kept on a leash at all times. Dog-friendly experiences include hiking, winter snowshoeing, and fat biking (only in the Grande Évasion sector). When it comes to lodging, many options welcome leashed dogs: the Shannahan and Etsanha campgrounds, the yurts Auréole, Nymphe, and Méandre, as well as several shelters such as La Hutte, Le Draveur, Des Falaises, Montagne Art, Orignal, Philosore, and the Delaney yurt. The Rivière, Petit Loup, Geai Bleu, and Etsanha cabins are also open to four-legged companions. View PDF version
Can I do more than one activity in a day?
Absolutely! Combine a morning hike with an afternoon swim or canoe outing to make the most of your outdoor day.
It's Your Turn!
Whether you're planning a relaxing escape with river views or an intense outdoor challenge, Vallée Bras-du-Nord promises an original, accessible, and fun-filled adventure. Book your Québec outdoor activity now and let the call of the forest guide you.