Baie Sainte-Marguerite Coastal Trail

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.