0 FR

Wildlife watching in Quebec: where to see moose, bears, birds and beavers

Our suggestions
Animal observé de près dans un parc animalier du Québec

A moose crossing a lake at dawn, a black bear in a blueberry field, a colony of gannets, a beaver dam at dusk: in Quebec, wildlife can be seen without going far, as long as you know where and when. This guide gathers Quebec’s wildlife-watching places, reserves, parks, interpretation centres and guided excursions, with each one’s listing, species and seasons.

When and how

Dawn and dusk are the hours of mammals; spring and fall, those of bird migrations; late September, that of the moose rut. Guided outings (truck safari, bear blind, seal cruise) nearly guarantee a sighting; on your own, silence, binoculars and patience do the rest.

The rules

Watch from a distance, without feeding or approaching, especially bears and moose during the rut. On regional roads, moose cross at nightfall: slow down. National parks note the most promising trails and lookouts on their listing.

🦌 Places by region

MontrealQuebecAbitibi-TémiscamingueBas-Saint-LaurentCentre-du-QuébecCharlevoixChaudière-AppalachesCôte-NordEastern TownshipsEeyou Istchee Baie-JamesGaspésieÎles-de-la-MadeleineLanaudièreLaurentidesMauricieMontérégieNunavikOutaouaisSaguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean

Montreal

6 places

Parc-nature de l’Ile-de-la-Visitation

A true historical gem! Located along the Rivière des Prairies, at the very heart of the history of Sault-au-Récollet, this park abounds in historical elements, such as the Site des Moulins ruins, the Maison du Pressoir and the Maison du Meunier.

Montréal Space for Life – Biodôme

Summer and winter alike, it is a place to discover!

Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques

Whether you are at the ecological farm, in a picnic area, on the beach or in the forest, you will appreciate this area set in the wilderness.

Parc-nature de la Pointe-aux-Prairies

Nature lovers will enjoy strolling through its fields and wooded areas and discovering its marshes.

Ecomuseum Zoo

Discover the only outdoor zoo on Montréal Island and see what Québec’s fauna has to offer in a unique natural setting!

Parc-nature du Bois-de-Liesse

During the hot days of summer, what could be better than going hiking or cycling?

Quebec

12 places

Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier

This park is home to one of Québec’s most spectacular glacial valleys, the Jacques-Cartier valley.

Canyon Sainte-Anne

Walking in pure nature!Discover the spectacular canyon carved out of the 1.2 billion year old rock by a 74 m waterfall, its mini canyon and its giant's kettle.

Aquarium du Québec

Dive into the world of the Aquarium for an accessible activity where the whole family will discover polar bears, seals, jellyfish and thousands of other marine animals.

Réserve faunique des Laurentides

Laurentides Wildlife Reserve is known as a reservoir of natural and wildlife resources.

Éducazoo Qc

This exotic animal sanctuary provides guided tours, with a booking.

Parc naturel régional de Portneuf

This regional nature park covers a 70-km2 (27-sq. mi.) territory of some of the most extraordinarily beautiful rock formations.

See 6 more ›

Abitibi-Témiscamingue

3 places

Parc national d’Aiguebelle

Come observe traces of the ice age, lava flows and rocks that are 2.7 billion years old.

Parc national d’Opémican

Experience this brand new national park and explore the pristine rivière and lac Kipawa and the cliffs of lac Témiscamingue.

Refuge Pageau

The story that will unfold as you follow the wooden trail began more than 30 years ago.

Bas-Saint-Laurent

12 places

Parcs des Chutes et de la Croix

In the heart of Rivière-du-Loup, a stop is a must in front of the spectacular 33-metre waterfall, which can be admired from one of the footbridges overlooking the river.

Pointe-au-Père National Wildlife Area

National wildlife area encompassing 21.7 hectares (53.6 acres) of intertidal marsh in the St. Lawrence, 8 km (5 mi.) northeast of Rimouski.
Free

Parc côtier Kiskotuk

This coastal park has nearly 20 kilometers of trails and offers lodging sites where the St. Lawrence River, the mountains, the marshes and the islands blend harmoniously.

Parc du Mont-Comi

Eastern Quebec's largest ski area!

Parc national du Bic

Set on the shores of the St. Lawrence River, this 33.2-km2 (12.8-sq.-mi.) national park boasts a stunning landscape of headlands, bays, coves, islands and mountains.

Canyon des Portes de l’Enfer

Managed by Terfa, the Canyon des Portes de l'Enfer is an outdoor area of choice.

See 6 more ›

Centre-du-Québec

4 places

Parc régional de la Rivière Gentilly

The must-see outdoor family destination in Centre-du-QuébecThe Parc régional de la rivière Gentilly offers activities in the great outdoors.

Parc régional des Grandes-Coulées

The parc régional des Grandes-Coulées includes two areas accessible for free: the Forêt ancienne with 10 km of trails along the beautiful Rivière Noire plus its many activities for the family and the Grande tourbière de Villeroy - a magnificent territory - with 3 km of trails including 1,2 km of boardwalk in the heart of an open bog. *NB: The Grande tourbière de Villeroy area will be closed for the 2024 season due to construction work.

Parc du Sanctuaire

A natural gem, Parc du Sanctuaire is the gateway to the Drummond Forest Regional Park, offering an incomparable view of the Saint-François River.

Parc régional des Grandes-Coulées / Ornithologie, mycologie et observation de la flore

Charlevoix

2 places

Parc national des Grands-Jardins

A memorable getaway awaits you at this park showcasing the beauty of the boreal forest and tundra.

Parc national des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie

The parc is one of Québec's most beautiful natural monuments.

Chaudière-Appalaches

6 places

Refuge animalier du Domaine Wolfestown

Since its inception, the Wolfestown Estate has made it its mission to help injured, abused, or orphaned wild animals.

Parc national de Frontenac

Nature, wildlife, boating and camping activities on Grand lac Saint-François.

Miller Zoo

A zoo and wildlife rehabilitation centre.

Parc du Massif du Sud

The Massif du Sud Park is a must.

Parc régional des Appalaches

The Parc des Appalaches extends over several sectors with many points of interest.

Sanctuaire de loups LUPO

Welcome to this sanctuary, a haven of peace nestled in the heart of unspoiled nature.

Côte-Nord

5 places

Parc Nature de Pointe-aux-Outardes

Here, you could almost soar.

Godbout Birds of prey Interpretation Centre

Working together with UQROP, Québec's coalition for the rehabilitation of birds of prey, the centre provides a safe haven for birds of prey that cannot be released back into the wild.

Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve

For your vacation in Quebec, enjoy an unforgettable experience in the Mingan Archipelago!

Parc national d’Anticosti

Imagine a wild and enchanting island, bathed by the transparent light of the north.

Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park

There are many ways to explore the marine park.

Eastern Townships

15 places

Zoo de Granby

On the Zoo's trails, visitors can observe almost 1,500 animals representing 193 species.

Parc régional du Mont-Ham

The Parc régional du Mont-Ham offers a complete immersion in a universe where nature and its roots take over.

Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook

The Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook offers a wide range of activities.

Parc national du Mont-Mégantic

Explore a land like no other by hiking, skiing or snowshoeing.

Parc d’environnement naturel de Sutton

Discover a 52-km network of four-season trails linked to the Green Mountains Nature Reserve and the Sentiers de l’Estrie.

Parc régional du Marécage-des-Scots

This park boasts 16.6 km (10 mi.) (return trip) of hiking and cycling trails.

See 9 more ›

Eeyou Istchee Baie-James

1 place

Nibiischii Corporation – Albanel-Mistassini-Waconichi Wildlife Reserve

Discover our packages with or without fishing in a chalet, floating chalet, prospector camp, Coolbox or camping in one of our four developed sites.

Gaspésie

12 places

Bioparc de la Gaspésie

Share close encounters with 40 indigenous animal species.

Parc national de la Gaspésie

With 25 peaks over a thousand metres (3,280 ft.) high, this park in heart of the Gaspé peninsula is unique due to its very diverse fauna and flora.

Forillon National Park

Located just minutes from Gaspé, Forillon National Park offers a wide range of exciting experiences by the sea, along cliffs and in the forest.

Parc régional de la rivière Mitis

Developed around the Mitis River, this park offers visitors a multitude of attractions and activities: conceptual gardens, hiking trails, wildlife observation, hunting, fishing, camping, resorts, etc.

Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé

At low tide, walk up to the 5-million-ton monolith shaped by stormy seas, strong gales and severe cold weather.

Parc régional du Lac-Matapédia

The Parc régional du Lac-Matapédia, a vast 170 km² natural territory, offers an immense playground for moving around in the forest or simply admiring the beauty of Lake Matapedia, in complete simplicity.

See 6 more ›

Îles-de-la-Madeleine

2 places

Pointe de l’Est National Wildlife Area

This National Wildlife Area was established in 1978 to protect habitats for migratory birds' staging areas and breeding grounds for at-risk species.
Free

Parc de Gros-Cap

A kayaking must on the Îles-de-la-Madeleine.

Lanaudière

11 places

Familizoo

Home to over 350 Canadian and exotic wildlife species.

Réserve faunique Rouge-Matawin

Reserve with over 450 lakes and rivers and numerous mountains.

Parc régional des Chutes-Monte-à-Peine-et-des-Dalles

A network of over 26 km of hiking trails leading to several waterfalls and bridges.

Parc régional de la Chute-à-Bull

16.8 km of hiking trails, including one leading to an 18 m-high waterfall.

Dorwin Falls Park

Interpretive trails topped by an imposing waterfall, with lookouts and play areas.

Parc de l’Île-Lebel

In the heart of Repentigny bordering the St. Lawrence River, this park is a 15.7-hectare haven of peace.

See 5 more ›

Laurentides

16 places

Parc national du Mont-Tremblant

The dean of Quebec's national parks, two-thirds of which are located in the Lanaudière region.

Parc Nature du Lac Beattie

This nature park is located 50 minutes from Montréal and offers a wide variety of year-round outdoor activities in a 100% preserved environment.

Parc national d’Oka

From the Calvaire Hill to Lac des Deux-Montagnes, history abounds.

Parc du Domaine Vert

The varied program at Parc du Domaine Vert (Domaine Vert park) features year round activities for all tastes and for everyone; families, school groups and businesses.

Parc régional Kiamika

An exceptional place for exceptional moments!Located less than 200 km from Montreal, the Kiamika Regional Park is a well-kept secret that surprises by its splendour and its wild aspect!

Parc Éco Laurentides

This park lets you experience the natural attractions and flora and fauna of this part of the country.

See 10 more ›

Mauricie

9 places

La Mauricie National Park

An array of trails, lodgings, forests, lakes and beaches are available to outdoor enthusiasts, campers and sports enthusiasts, summer and winter alike: road biking, hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, swimming, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and much more.

Réserve faunique Mastigouche

The reserve's special appeal is a magnet for visitors who come to enjoy other recreational activities for the day or to stay at one of the superb cabins located in enchanting surroundings.

Ranch Dupont

Nature lovers, take a walk along the trails and discover over 200 animals from 40 different species.

Réserve faunique du Saint-Maurice

Lake and speckled trout abound in the reserve's numerous lakes and waterways.

Parc récréoforestier Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc

This 127-km2 (78.9-mi2) park is open all year round to outdoor enthusiasts.

Parc nature La Gabelle

This park offers a diversified hiking experience, accessible to all levels.

See 3 more ›

Montérégie

11 places

Parc Safari

Much more than just a zoo!

Sentiers de L’escapade

Located in the heart of Mont Rigaud, this recreational park features 27 km of trails.

Parc Les Salines

The lungs of Saint-Hyacinthe!Les Salines Park is an open-air base located along the Jean-Lesage highway and occupies an area of approximately 105 hectares, more than 60% of which is wooded.

Lake Saint-François National Wildlife Area

A national wildlife reserve created to preserve a unique collection of marshes and swamps, home to an exceptionally diverse flora and fauna.
Free

Parc national des Îles-de-Boucherville

This national park in the middle of the St. Lawrence River just a short distance from the heart of Montréal, boasts green spaces, channels teeming with life and waterside trails for campers, hikers, cyclists and canoeists looking for a breath of fresh air and an escape from noisy city life.

Parc national du Mont-Saint-Bruno

Hikers can enjoy the park’s five lakes, orchards boasting over 2,000 apple trees, a tea room and miles of trails criss-crossing the forest.

See 5 more ›

Nunavik

4 places

Parc national Tursujuq

Near Hudson Bay, discover the largest national park in Québec!

Parc national Ulittaniujalik

Ulittaniujalik has a rich millennial history.

Parc national Kuururjuaq

Covering 4,460.8 square kilometres, this park extends from Ungava Bay to Mount Caubvick (Mont D'Iberville in Québec) —the highest peak in eastern North America, rising to 1,646 metres crisscrossed by the majestic Koroc River, whose shores are lined with countless archeological gems.

Parc national des Pingualuit

The legendary crystal eye of a 1.4 million year old meteorite crater, in which the blue waters that bathes in this circular lake are of pure transparency, will leave you spellbound.

Outaouais

11 places

Réserve faunique de Papineau-Labelle

In summer, enjoy the fine sand beaches and calm lakes where you can set out in your canoe, kayak or pedal boat.

Parc national de Plaisance

Located on a series of islands in the Ottawa River, the Parc national de Plaisance is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly birdwatchers: over 250 species can be observed all year.

Chutes Coulonge Park

Discover the Chutes Coulonge Park in the heart of the Pontiac, and enjoy history, culture and outdoor adventure!

Parc Oméga

Since 1991, Parc Omega in Montebello has offered a unique experience in Quebec!

Forêt-la-Blanche Ecological Reserve

Explore one of the oldest forests in eastern North America.

Gatineau Park

The National Capital Conservation Park, known as the “green lung” of the Outaouais region, covers more than 361 square kilometers and is home to a rich and unique biodiversity.

See 5 more ›

Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean

10 places

Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay

Imagine standing among breathtaking cliffs and steep slopes.

Parc de la Rivière-du-Moulin

Discover the pleasures of the outdoors in the city!

Zoo sauvage de Saint-Félicien

Experience the boreal wilderness like never before!

Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon

A unique view onto lake Saint-Jean, an immense inner sea.

Parc national des Monts-Valin

Set in the heart of the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, this national park boasts peaks over 900 m (2,953 ft.) high, spectacular views, and rivers and other bodies of water ideal for hikers, canoeists and fishing enthusiasts.

Zoo Falardeau

The refuge takes in injured or orphaned animals, rehabilitates them and returns them to the wild.

See 4 more ›

Read next

Read next: whale-watching cruises and hikes and lookouts.

Don't Miss47 articles

See all ›

The latest news and announcements about events, festivals and activities in Quebec. Everything you need to know so you don't miss any of the outings and new things happening right now.

Christmas 2026 in Quebec: lights, illuminated trails and Christmas villages
6 October 2026

Escape rooms and immersive experiences in Quebec: the indoor outings that build a team
30 September 2026

Halloween in Quebec: haunted villages, ghost walks and parties for adults
30 September 2026

Thanksgiving in Quebec: the long weekend of grape harvest and fall colours
30 September 2026

Rain? Freezing? The indoor activities that save your day
20 September 2026

Christmas markets in Quebec: the magical tour to do this year
20 September 2026