📍 Location: Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park (SEPAQ)
💵 Fee: $9.85/day (SEPAQ park)
🚶 Length & Duration: 13 km, 4-5 hours
⏰ Timing Rules: Start before 12 p.m.; descent mandatory by 3 p.m.
🚌 Transportation: Shuttle buses available from visitor center on busy days
🍁❄️ Seasonal Shift: Experience fall foliage at the base and winter snow at the summit
⚠️ Difficulty: Rated hard but manageable for experienced hikers
🏔️ Highest Point: 3rd summit at 1048 m
My Experience on L'Acropole des Draveurs
L'Acropole des Draveurs is an iconic Quebec hike that truly showcases the beauty of changing seasons. We did it on Thanksgiving weekend, just before it closed for the season, and it was a memorable journey from fall to winter. Starting out, we were surrounded by vibrant autumn colors along the river. The trail was popular that day, so we took a nostalgic ride in a school bus shuttle from the visitor center—a fun little twist!
As we climbed, we went from fiery fall leaves at the base to icy, snow-covered trees at the summit, creating a magical contrast. Despite its “hard” rating, I found it pretty doable compared to other tough hikes I’ve done. Reaching the 3rd summit at 1048 m, with stunning, frosty views, was well worth the effort.
Tip: Dress warmly—it’s surprisingly cold up top! This hike is a must-do for any outdoor lover in Quebec, and one of my favorites in the province.
