Family in a forest trail in Côte-Nord in the fall.
Two women in a pontoon in an outfitter in Côte-Nord.
Whale in the fall in Côte-Nord.
Apples on a tree in Côte-Nord.

4 ways to make the most of fall on a trip to Côte-Nord

Published on August 17, 2026 Destinations to explore

As summer slowly draws to a close, the Côte-Nord region reveals a whole new side of itself. The forests are ablaze with vibrant colours, the river takes on a wilder character, and the markets are brimming with local produce. Whether you’re dreaming of outdoor adventure, culinary discoveries, getting up close to majestic whales or trying your hand at fishing, here are 4 suggestions for an invigorating getaway!

4 ways to make the most of fall on a trip to Côte-Nord
This article is presented by

Tourisme Côte-Nord

Get moving surrounded by fall scenery 

Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages will have their pick when it comes to being active this fall. 

In Tadoussac, the Béluga Ultra Trail, on September 19, 2026, invites runners to push their limits in a family-friendly and inclusive atmosphere, while supporting a vital cause: the protection of beluga whales. Also in Tadoussac, the Domaine des Dunes offers a fun outing in nature with an obstacle course featuring 23 modules made of cedar wood and rope, with views of the river and an immersive experience in the forest.

Horseback riding in Côte-Nord.
Cœur Sauvage - Three people crouching down to forage for wild plants.
Cœur Sauvage

In Sacré-Cœur, Nordic landscapes come to life with Cœur Sauvage, which offers guided hikes to pristine lakes and colorful panoramic views, as well as introductory workshops on edible wild plants. Are you a fan of horseback riding? Instinct Nomade welcomes you to an enchanting setting where you can enjoy a variety of equestrian activities on a small family farm.

Taste the bounty of the land

Fall is also the perfect season to discover the flavors of the Côte-Nord region. In Longue-Rive, Le Bleuet des champs welcomes you to its farm stand, where wild blueberries are transformed into a wide variety of delicious homemade products, while in Pointe-Lebel, Ferme Manicouagan invites you to enjoy the late harvest at its farm stand and pick your own pumpkins and corn.

Apples on a tree in Côte-Nord.

Continue your getaway to Port-Cartier, where the Fall Market brings together vegetable farmers and artisans in a warm and welcoming atmosphere on September 11 and 12, 2026. Be sure to also stop by Ferme Ragnarüches, which offers delicious honeys, excellent bubble teas and educational activities to help you discover the fascinating world of bees. 

For a delicious end to your foodie road trip, head to Sept-Îles to sample the tempting, ecofriendly products made from woodland ingredients at Trésors des bois then visit le Petit Jardin du Nord for tantalizing artisanal hot sauces.

Mother and two kids walking by the sea.
Whale in the fall in Côte-Nord.

Witness the wonders of nature and wildlife

An extraordinary experience awaits you in the heart of one of the world’s best places to observe marine mammals (they can generally be spotted in the region until mid-October). Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family, or on your own, there are various options available to you: a whale-watching cruise, which can be combined with a lodging package, or from the shore, notably at the Cap de Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre and the Marine Environment Discovery Centre, both part of the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park

Birdwatchers will also be in for a treat at the Côte-Nord Migratory Bird Festival, which takes flight from September 21 to 27, 2026, in the charming town of Les Bergeronnes, located in the heart of one of North America’s largest migratory corridors.

Couple camping at Longue Pointe de Mingan.

Continue enjoying moments of contemplation throughout the region thanks to various outdoor sites offering scenic trails dotted with beaches and lookouts. A photographer’s paradise!

Set out on an adventure

The vast northern coastal landscapes offer an exceptional playground for those who love to venture off the beaten path. Whether you’re looking to go hunting or fishing at an outfitter’s, in a ZEC (controlled hunting zone), or on public lands, the possibilities are endless.

Couple on an ATV ride in Côte-Nord.

From the Manicouagan region to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, including Anticosti Island, outfitters welcome you to the heart of breathtaking natural scenery—the perfect setting for a change of pace with friends or a vacation in a cabin. And with Fjord Aventure, ATV enthusiasts can have a blast on the forest trails and admire magnificent views of the Saguenay Fjord.

The beauty of the landscapes and the variety of experiences definitely make a trip to the Côte-Nord worth your while this fall!

Video spotlight

Let the Côte-Nord region amaze you this fall

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Côte-Nord - Nature, beyond measure

Côte-Nord

Côte-Nord - Nature, beyond measure

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Domaine des Dunes

Côte-Nord

Domaine des Dunes

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Ferme Manicouagan

Côte-Nord

Ferme Manicouagan

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Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre (Parks Canada)

Côte-Nord

Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre (Parks Canada)

Info / Book
Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park

Côte-Nord

Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park

Info / Book
Fjord Aventure

Côte-Nord

Fjord Aventure

Info / Book

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