This Unique National Park In Canada Is Famous For Its Otherworldly Limestone Monoliths

Looking for an unforgettable weekend adventure? Tucked along Quebec's remote Côte-Nord, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve is one of Canada's most unique and breathtaking coastal landscapes. Spread across islands and islets in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, this protected area is popular for its limestone monoliths. The best part? Entrance is free for youth (17 years and below), $6.50 for adults (18 to 64 years), $5.50 for seniors (above 65 years), and $13.50 for groups or families! Adventure seekers will love this budget-friendly Canadian destination, which combines geological wonders and island escapes without the high price tag of bucket-list destinations.

Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve is in Havre-Saint-Pierre, which is 35 minutes from Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan. You can fly into Sept-Îles Airport, located about 210 kilometres west of Havre-Saint-Pierre, or take the road trip along Route 138, which is one of Quebec's most scenic coastal drives. From these towns, take a short boat ride, operated by locals, to the islands. The Mingan Archipelago was designated as a park in 1984 to protect the limestone islands and monoliths. However, its story goes back millions of years when the monoliths were formed. The indigenous communities relied on the archipelago for fishing and hunting. In the 15th and 16th centuries, European settlers used the region for cod fishing.

At the heart of the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve are the limestone monoliths, which are formations rising from the Gulf of St. Lawrence. These formations, some reaching a height of 20 metres, have been shaped over millions of years and are spread across 40 islands and islets, making this park one of Canada's most spectacular national parks. You can clearly see the monoliths by taking a boat tour, which allows you to get close and see how they rise from the waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Several companies in Havre-Saint-Pierre offer three- to five-hour tours with opportunities to spot seals, whales, and fossils.

If kayaking or paddleboarding is more your speed, you can rent a kayak from one of the local outfitters and follow the kayaking routes in the area. There are routes for beginners and experienced paddlers. If you prefer exploring on foot or are feeling adventurous, some hiking trails on the islands provide viewpoints for admiring the formations up close. For example, the Île Nue de Mingan trails follow shorter paths across limestone landscapes with rock formations and diverse flora. The Île Quarry, on the other hand, passes through boreal forests and spectacular viewpoints overlooking monoliths along the shore. Each trail gives you a unique perspective on the monoliths, with some rising from hidden coves or perched on sea cliffs.

After discovering the limestone monoliths, spend time in Havre-Saint-Pierre, a small coastal community that is a gateway to the islands. With Acadian heritage, this cute Canadian town is the ultimate destination, especially for solo travelers, providing comfort and adventure at your own pace. Explore Havre-Saint-Pierre's charming streets dotted with local boutiques and the Maison de la Culture Roland-Jomphe, which features the region's fishing and geological history. Craving some seafood? Make sure you stop by La Promenade for a taste of delicious lobsters and scallops. You can also grab a meal at Chez Julie, a family-run restaurant offering delicious seafood and desserts on the menu.

About a half-hour drive from Havre-Saint-Pierre to the east is the Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan. This is a small fishing village with beautiful sandy beaches, coastal trails, and sea views. You can also visit Baie-Johan-Beetz, a 45-minute drive from the park. This small town charms visitors with its historic manor house, which feels like a step back in time. In addition, the beautiful landscapes and coastal scenery make Baie-Johan-Beetz a great destination for bonding with nature. If you want to experience the local culture, take a short drive inland to Natashquan, the birthplace of famous Quebecois poet and songwriter Gilles Vigneault. The traditional clapboard houses and cultural festivals keep the Acadian and Innu heritage alive.