Hiking in Réserve faunique Mastigouche: trails, map and practical info

Réserve faunique Mastigouche is in the Mauricie region of Quebec, close to Saint-Alexis-des-Monts. It covers more than 1,500 square kilometers and has more than 400 lakes, according to Tourisme Mauricie. Tourisme Québec and Tourisme Mauricie list hiking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming and cycling there.

The Sentier national de la Mauricie in the reserve

The Sentier national de la Mauricie crosses the reserve through the Tonnerre, Saint-Bernard and Vianney-Guillemette sections. The Tonnerre trail has several viewpoints over the Rivière aux Écorces valley and over lakes, including lacs Chamberlain, Tonnerre and Saint-Bernard.

The Saint-Bernard shelter stay, offered by the Sentier national, lasts 3 days and 2 nights (38.2 km, intermediate level). On day 1, 13.1 km (about 6 hours) lead to the shelter, which has 12 places; lodging there is paid and reservations are required. Day 2 is a 12 km loop (4 to 5 hours) around Lac Saint-Bernard, with a viewpoint over the whole lake and a beach for swimming at its north end. The route starts at the end of rang Morin, in Saint-Alexis-des-Monts (free roadside parking, about 15 spaces).

Dogs

Tourisme Québec states that dogs on a leash are allowed in the reserve. On Sentier national itineraries, leashed dogs are welcome, except in the shelters.

Season and restrictions

The Sentier national recommends early June to late August for the Saint-Bernard shelter itinerary. It is closed during the big-game hunting season and open during the small-game season, when a dossard (bib) is required.

Access and fees

According to the Sentier national de la Mauricie's Prêt-à-partir route sheets (Balise Québec), access to its itineraries in the reserve is free. For the western Mauricie crossing, registration at the Pins-Rouges reception is mandatory. For other activities, Tourisme Québec refers to the rates published by Sépaq.

Camping and lodging

The Lac Saint-Bernard campground has nearly 100 serviced sites available until mid-October, according to Tourisme Mauricie, which also lists free showers and drinking water among the reserve's services. Tourisme Québec also lists ready-to-camp units and chalet stays; Tourisme Mauricie counts 50 chalets.