Magdalen Islands hiking: where to go in the archipelago

Overlook Havre-Aubert and admire the archipelago from one of its highest peaks. La Grave will reveal itself before you, and you’ll see the sandstone mingling with the turquoise tones of the gulf. Climb on foot or by car, depending on your level of comfort.

Take the opportunity to discover the historic Site de la Grave, just a few minutes’ walk away, and if you’re feeling fit, the Butte de la Croix is right next door and can be combined to explore both peaks in one outing.

This intermediate climb offers some respite on the way up, but you’ll be treated to breathtaking scenery once you reach the cross. You’ll see Entry Island in the distance, and at the same time admire the tip of the hook that is the La Grave site. The side of the mountain also features a statue of the Patron Saint of the Acadians, celebrated on August 14.

Once the hike is over, an ice cream or fruit frozen yogurt can serve as a reward at O’Glaces.

Reach the furthest point of Havre-Aubert and feel as if you’re approaching Entry Island on an exceptional dune. The walk is fairly easy, but intermediate in terms of duration and the sand that serves as a trail. You can also get there by bike or tractor.

Check the tides to make sure you get there and back in time and avoid stepping in the water. Park your car in the lot at the end of Chemin du Sable.

This easy, flat loop is suitable for all ages. You’ll discover a lovely stretch of fresh water, Lac Solitaire, a protected forest haven.

Take advantage of this excursion to the Montagne area to discover the Dune de l’Ouest beach or stop off at the Maison Papier boutique.

Park at the Anse-à-la-Cabane lighthouse, then take an easy stroll along the cliff edge. Admire the capes (be careful) and take time to explore the William Cormier Heritage Park and its interpretation panels.

Once in this area, take advantage of the Bassin arts tour, circling the Canyon to discover local crafts.

Climbing the Butte ronde rewards you with an impressive view of Havre-aux-Maisons, but the ascent is relatively difficult. The escarpment is high and the feeling is unmarked. A rope holds you close to the summit, but you’ll need some skill to make the climb safely from the Cap Alright parking lot.

After the descent, explore the Cape Alright lighthouse and surrounding cliffs, then descend to the nearby beach at the foot of the peaked buttes.

The Parc des Bucks loop is perfect for all members of the family, thanks to its level of ease. You can choose from several trails and stop whenever you like. The advantage of this Magdalen Islands hike is that it’s protected from the elements, right in the heart of the forest.

Stop off at Rose Latté for a refreshing drink after this escapade, or do a little shopping in the center of Cap-aux-Meules.

With minimal elevation gain, this round-trip hike links the Côte à l’Étang-du-Nord site to the Borgot lighthouse site along spectacular headlands. Be careful and stay away from the edges, as there are many grassy false flats.

Reward yourself with a drink at the Café des Lupins as you explore the various boutiques on the Côte site.

The little-known Pointe de l’Est National Wildlife Area is nestled between Grosse-Île and Grande-Entrée. Here you’ll find a multitude of sandy trails leading from freshwater to saltwater, in a host of environments typical of the Magdalen Islands.

Taste the best lobster guédille on the Islands at Cap Dauphin’s Fish Shack after meeting the fishermen at Grande-Entrée harbour.

With little change in altitude, this walk is one of the most beautiful in the archipelago, crossing a multitude of landscapes. First, you’ll walk along the beach of Bassin Ouest, over a pebble beach, over ochre cliffs and through a wooded area, before coming out high above the remains of the island, carved out by wind and tide.

Take a kayak or clay outing in the oyster basin at La Salicorne, explore the port of Grande-Entrée or plan a swim at Grande Échouerie before returning to your accommodation.

The highest point on the Magdalen Islands, Big Hill is 174 metres high, but the hike has a final vertical drop of over 200 metres. This day trip is a must-do, see our guide to Entry Island here.

End your Entry Island exploration with a local beer or ice cream at Entry Island Marina!

With over 300 kilometers of sand on all sides of the islands, there’s no shortage of options for impromptu hikes. All the beaches are great for walking, but special mention should be made of Dune de l’Ouest, Cormorandière and Grande Échouerie!

Would you like to explore even more of the archipelago on foot? Did you know that there is a Compostelle des îles, broken down into 13 marked trails? Discover the map and technical details of the Sentier entre vents et marées here.

Hiking in the Magdalen Islands means slowing down and letting yourself be surprised by the diversity of landscapes, sometimes just a few kilometers apart. These trails will give you a whole new way to discover the archipelago: put on your shoes and follow the wind!