The black bear is an emblematic figure of Quebec’s forests. It is majestic yet somewhat intimidating with its imposing stature and piercing gaze. Although they can be found just about everywhere in Quebec, except for the Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Anticosti Island, very few can claim to have seen one up close! Among the lucky ones who have are a good number of our outfitters, who are experts when it comes to the territory they cherish and the treasures to be found there. Some of them even organize black bear-watching expeditions, offering you the chance to see the animal in its natural habitat. Curious to try this adventure? Let’s find out where it’s happening!
Côte-Nord
Essipit is known for its many wilderness adventure attractions, from campsites to whale-watching excursions and, of course, wildlife-watching expeditions. The Pourvoirie des Lacs à JimmyThis link will open in a new window is just a few kilometres from Tadoussac and is the perfect place to observe black bears thanks to its calm and peaceful surroundings. You’ll be guided through the forest by an experienced guide to the safe shelter, built directly in the animal’s natural habitat. Throughout this expedition, you'll be delighted by the scenery, pleasantly tinged with the know-how of the Innu culture of the Essipit community. A rich, multidimensional experience you’ll long remember!
Charlevoix
The beautiful Charlevoix region has it all: nature to spare, some of the province’s most prized mountain scenery and abundant wildlife. It offers two stops, both equally magnificent, for black bear observation.
The first is the Domaine le Pic-BoisThis link will open in a new window, less than two hours from Quebec City, offering abundant flora and fauna for nature lovers. The Domaine offers a 3-hour excursion, including a 15-minute walk, to observe the black bear from a watchtower less than 20 metres from the animal! With over 95% success over the past 5 years, an experienced bilingual guide will take you to see this natural wonder up close.
The second location, La Pourvoirie du Lac MoreauThis link will open in a new window, is an equally dreamy spot for hiking enthusiasts. Across 40 kilometres of trails, keep an eye out for the forest’s many species, including the black bear in its natural habitat from late May to mid-October. Then make your way to the highest summit, at 1,030 metres above sea level. Don’t worry there are trails for beginners and experts alike!
Mauricie
Along with the Outaouais, Mauricie is one of the regions with the highest black bear density in Quebec. Many of our Mauricie outfitters have become experts at spotting them, and they share their knowledge with their visitors! At La Seigneurie du TritonThis link will open in a new window, black bear watching is done from a canoe on the lake to keep a distance from the animal, the perfect perspective for the whole family, including the most fearful! The bear can carry on with his daily activities while you admire it.
At the Auberge du Lac-à-l’Eau-ClaireThis link will open in a new window, the secure wildlife observation site allows you to admire the black bear from a respectful distance, of course, but also the beavers! It’s the perfect activity to enhance your family vacation by exploring the wilderness. On your way back, enjoy the magnificent flowers, such as lupines, kalmias and pitcher plants.
Our tour of the Mauricie region ends with the lush green setting of the Pourvoirie du Lac BlancThis link will open in a new window, which has everything to please wildlife enthusiasts. You’ll be right in the middle of the action with their open-air facilities where the animals feed. Maybe it’ll even have the year’s cubs with it! Combine your activity with the Native combo to add an aboriginal touch to your stay. A rabaska ride and storytelling evening will round off your day perfectly.
© Pourvoirie du Lac Blanc
Our tour of the Mauricie region ends with the lush green setting of the Pourvoirie du Lac BlancThis link will open in a new window, which has everything to please wildlife enthusiasts. You’ll be right in the middle of the action with their open-air facilities where the animals feed. Maybe it’ll even have the year’s cubs with it! Combine your activity with the Native combo to add an aboriginal touch to your stay. A rabaska ride and storytelling evening will round off your day perfectly.