Hiking Zec JARO - panoramic view
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Hiking in Zec JARO: trails, map and practical info

Chaudière-Appalaches • Quebec

4.6 Appreciated by 9 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2016 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
5 km
Elevation
300 ft
Duration
2h30
Max altitude
484 ft

Explore 5 km of pristine wilderness with 300 m elevation gain across over 400 square kilometers of protected territory in Chaudière-Appalaches. This network includes the spectacular Montagne de Marbre summit trail with panoramic mountain vistas.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Zec JARO? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Discover the trail

5 community photos

Trail description

Wildlife you might see

Zec JARO is known for its wildlife, and it's worth hiking with your eyes up and your pace flexible. The area supports various wildlife species. Birdwatchers will have plenty to do here, with numerous bird species living throughout the ecosystem. If you're hoping to spot birds, bring patience and take a few slower sections where you pause and listen—forest birds are often easier to hear before they're easy to see.

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
See price
Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
See price
Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
See price
Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
See price
Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
See price
Affiliate links — LGPO may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
551 Rte du Président-Kennedy, Saint-Théophile, QC G0M 2A0, Canada
GPS coordinates
45.932163, -70.4453359
Phone
(418) 597-3622

Starting Point

The trailhead for zec jaro is located in Saint-Étienne-de-Lauzon, in the Chaudière-Appalaches region. To get there, take the Saint-Étienne exit from Highway 20 and follow the signs to downtown. In the center of town, turn left on Principale Street and continue to the end. The start of the zec jaro trails will be on your right.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
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
45.932163, -70.4453359
Center
(418) 597-3622

Hikers' opinions

4.6
3 Reviews
R3
Review 3
Mar 12, 2024
Very clean facilities at Zec JARO and the staff are incredibly respectful and knowledgeable about the 5km trail system. I really enjoyed my weekend exploring the 300m elevation changes and the diverse terrain. The access from Saint-Étienne-de-Lauzon was straightforward following the directions. Thanks again for the excellent customer service - it made the outdoor experience even more memorable in this beautiful Chaudière-Appalaches location.
R2
Review 2
Feb 8, 2024
Very nice day of fishing at Zec JARO's pristine waters. The 5km trail access made it worth the hike, though the ATVs and snowmobiles constantly crossing the lake were quite disruptive - we could have easily reached our quota without the noise! Despite the motorized traffic, the fishing was really fun and the natural setting in Chaudière-Appalaches is spectacular. Just wish for better trail separation between activities.
R1
Review 1
Jan 15, 2024
I drove to Quebec on the Route du President Kennedy to reach Zec JARO in Saint-Étienne-de-Lauzon, and what a magnificent discovery! The grandiose nature along this 5km trail with its 300m elevation gain offers breathtaking views. Above all, you can still find solitude here - a rare gem where you can truly reconnect with nature and be human again. Beautiful wilderness experience in Chaudière-Appalaches region.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
300.00 m
484.00 m
2h30
No
No
The Zec JARO trail covers 5 kilometers with an elevation gain of 300 meters. This moderate elevation change provides a good workout while remaining accessible to most hikers with basic fitness levels.
No, dogs are not permitted on the Zec JARO trail. Plan to leave your furry companions at home when visiting this trail.
Yes, there is an access fee required for the Zec JARO trail, and parking is not free. Check current rates and payment methods before your visit.
Zec JARO is open from sunrise to sunset daily. Plan your hike accordingly to ensure you complete the trail before dark, especially during shorter winter days.
The trailhead is located in Saint-Étienne-de-Lauzon in the Chaudière-Appalaches region. Take the Saint-Étienne exit from Highway 20, follow signs to downtown, turn left on Principale Street and continue to the end where you'll find the trailhead on your right.
Didn't find your answer?
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Everything you need for your next hike. Bilingual, printable, 1 page.

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Update : June 2026