Chemin Grandes-Bergeronnes — Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park Plateau Road

The north shore of the St. Lawrence between Tadoussac and Sacré-Cœur is dominated by the dramatic plateau that drops straight into the estuary, and the back road network above Grandes-Bergeronnes is one of the few places you can get a 4×4 up into that terrain without a chainsaw permit. The main track climbs steeply from the village past the Pointe-des-Roches beluga observation area, then threads inland through second-growth boreal forest on a mix of crushed gravel and exposed bedrock ledges — classic Canadian Shield stuff. The high point near Cap-de-Bon-Désir gives an unobstructed view down onto the St. Lawrence shipping lane and the Saguenay fjord mouth. Watch for logging truck traffic on weekday mornings; they own these roads and they know it.

High-clearance is mandatory; 4WD with all-terrains is the practical minimum. No permits required but check with the local municipality for seasonal road closures — spring thaw usually locks the upper sections until late May. The route is doable as a long day from Tadoussac but a night camped on the plateau above the estuary is worth it if you can find a flat pull-off. No services beyond Grandes-Bergeronnes itself; fuel and supplies in Tadoussac or Baie-Sainte-Catherine. Cell service is spotty at best once you gain elevation.