Baie Sainte-Marguerite Coastal Trail
Fjord trail where whales visit your campsite
This rough coastal trail hugs the north shore of the Saguenay Fjord through Saguenay National Park, where 400-foot cliffs drop straight into dark water that hosts beluga whales year-round. The old logging road to Baie Sainte-Marguerite was carved by lumber companies in the 1940s but now serves as the only vehicle access to this stretch of protected fjord coastline. Pointe de l’Islet offers the best whale watching — belugas feed in the bay’s shallow waters while minke and fin whales cruise the deeper channel.
Moderate difficulty requiring high-clearance 4WD for rocky sections and creek crossings. Parks Canada requires advance permits for vehicle access and camping. Best June through September when the road is maintained and whales are most active. No services, no cell coverage, and you’re 40 miles from the nearest help. Bring everything including drinking water. What you get is front-row seats to one of Canada’s most spectacular marine sanctuaries, where you can watch whales from your campsite and hear them breathing in the calm morning air.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 25 mi / 40.2 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 650 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Tadoussac, QC |
| Land manager | Parks Canada |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | pc.gc.ca |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle this trail, or do I need a lifted rig?
A stock high-clearance 4WD is the minimum — a Tacoma or 4Runner with factory clearance will get through. Lockers or a lift aren't required, but the mixed surface and water crossings mean a 2WD or low-clearance SUV will have a bad time.
When does the trail open and is snow or ice a real concern?
June through September is the reliable window. Outside those months you're dealing with snow, ice, and frozen mud that can trap a vehicle. Parks Canada doesn't maintain winter access out here, so don't push the shoulder seasons without serious preparation.
Do I need a permit and is there a fee to run this trail?
Yes, a Parks Canada permit is required since this falls within Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park jurisdiction. Check current fees and reservation requirements directly at pc.gc.ca — camping spots along backcountry routes like this can fill up, especially July and August.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The water crossings are where moderate turns real — depths vary by season and recent rain, and there's no bridging. Approach slowly, check depth on foot first, and know your vehicle's wading limit. The rest is rutted coastal track with soft shoulders that can grab tires if you drift off line.
Is there any place to resupply or get gas near the trailhead, and what's the cell situation on trail?
Tadoussac is your last stop for fuel, food, and any forgotten gear — plan your gas range from there and back because there's nothing on trail. Cell service is completely dead once you leave the trailhead, so download offline maps and file a trip plan before you roll out.
Trail track
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