Hiking Site Ornithologique Du Marais De Gros-cacouna - panoramic view
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Hiking in Site Ornithologique Du Marais De Gros-cacouna: trails, map and practical info

Bas-Saint-Laurent • Quebec

4.7 Appreciated by 3 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2016Updated 19/06/2026
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
5 km
Elevation
1 m
Duration
1h10
Max altitude
1 m

This easy 4.7 km trail through Bas-Saint-Laurent's premier birdwatching sanctuary offers encounters with over 200 species, including herons and bald eagles. Flat terrain along St. Lawrence River marshlands makes it perfect for nature photography and peaceful observation.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Site Ornithologique Du Marais De Gros-cacouna? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Discover the trail

5 community photos

Trail description

The Marais de Gros-Cacouna is known for its rich biodiversity and is especially valued as a birding destination. It is ranked among the top three ornithological sites in Quebec, making it one of the best locations for birdwatching in the province. You may spot herons standing still at the edge of the water, ducks tucked into calmer areas of the marsh, and—if you're lucky—the occasional bald eagle overhead.

If you're coming primarily for wildlife, plan to move quietly and give yourself time. Wetland birds often blend into the background until you stop and let your eyes adjust, and some of the best sightings happen when you pause and listen for calls or wingbeats rather than trying to cover distance quickly.

The Site Ornithologique Du Marais De Gros-Cacouna works well for a wide range of visitors. With its easy, nearly flat 4.7 km network, it's a solid choice for beginners and casual walkers, while still offering enough wildlife interest to keep experienced outdoor people engaged. Nature lovers who enjoy landscapes shaped by water will find plenty to look at.

Recommended gear for this trail

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Wide Mouth 1L
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Trail Ergo Cork
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Actik Core 625
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Not available
GPS coordinates
47.9401055, -69.49719689999999
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

To access the hiking trails, head to the parking lot located at 301 Chemin du Quai, Cacouna, Quebec. This is the main starting point for exploring the area.

When?

Opening hours
No information
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
47.9401055, -69.49719689999999
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.7
1 Reviews
R1
Review 1
Jan 15, 2024
Been coming here for many years. It's changed in the way that it's become more 'user-friendly' with more stairs on the mountain trail in difficult locations which is fine by me. Everything has been very nicely preserved though and people who use the trail seem to have a lot of respect for the environment. The lookout points have some spectacular views and if you're lucky you can spot belugas in the Saint-Lawrence. There's lots of wildlife to see if you listen and look closely on the trail as well. If you're not a very experienced hiker, the flats walk is also quite worth it. The 4.7km easy trail with minimal elevation makes it perfect for bird watching and enjoying the marsh ecosystem.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
1.00 M
1.00 M
1h10
No
No
The Site Ornithologique Du Marais De Gros-cacouna trail is rated as Easy difficulty with minimal elevation gain of only 1 meter. This makes it accessible for hikers of all skill levels, including beginners and families.
The Site Ornithologique Du Marais De Gros-cacouna trail covers a distance of 4.7 kilometers. The flat terrain with only 1 meter of elevation gain makes for a comfortable walking experience.
No, dogs are not allowed on the Site Ornithologique Du Marais De Gros-cacouna trail. This restriction helps protect the sensitive marsh ecosystem and wildlife habitat.
Yes, there is an access fee required to visit the Site Ornithologique Du Marais De Gros-cacouna, and parking is not free. Check current rates and payment methods before your visit.
The Site Ornithologique Du Marais De Gros-cacouna is an ornithological site featuring marsh habitats ideal for birdwatching. The flat, easy trail provides excellent opportunities to observe various bird species in their natural wetland environment.
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Everything you need for your next hike. Bilingual, printable, 1 page.

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Our ranking based on hiker reviews

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Update : June 2026