In Rimouski, city attractions sit along a stretch of coastline surrounded by parks and wild places.
Serving a population of just under 50,000, Rimouski is a vibrant city with a historic downtown full of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants and all the amenities a visitor could want. For outdoor action, head to the lighthouse and submarine at Pointe-au-Père Maritime Historic Site (Site Historique Maritime de la Pointe-au-Père) or to the many parks and scenic hikes in and around the city. Whale watching on the St. Lawrence River is another must between mid-May and October.
Climb or hike the highest peaks in the Canadian Appalachians at Gaspesie, or travel the pristine waterways to watch out for moose, caribou, and a plethora of other flora and fauna. This spectacular park serves up all the wilderness that backcountry campers could desire, but it also offers frontcountry sites with full amenities, yurt rentals, guided experiences with park staff, and a historic hotel with a superb restaurant.
Paddlers love the canoe camping on offer at this park famous for its crystal-clear lakes and lush Acadian forest. Home to beavers, moose, white-tailed deer, and dozens of bird species, Lac-Témiscouata is a paradise for campers looking to come close to Quebec’s wildlife.
Situated in the St. Lawrence estuary, Bic's coast and marshes are home to birds of prey and a variety of both marine and terrestrial mammals. Campers can stay the night and go hiking, sea kayaking, or biking by day. In winter, snag a year-round campsite to try some snowsports.
Regular boat service from the Rimouski marina takes visitors to this small wooded island, home to 20 kilometers of hiking trails and more than 70 migratory bird species and harbour seals.
As one of the largest cities in the region, Rimouski is a year-round destination where winter closures are rare—in fact, a huge annual winter festival runs each February. Rimouski is typically busier than usual on the first weekend of September, when the town hosts a popular annual jazz fest. If visiting Rimouski in winter before heading to tour the Gaspé Peninsula loop, this is a great place to stock up on supplies for your trip.