Cap-Tourmente National Wildlife Area

A Federal Wildlife Area Where Tens Of Thousands Of Greater Snow Geese Rest In Spring And Autumn On The St. Lawrence Marsh, With Trails, A Nature Centre And Ridge Views Toward Ile D'Orleans. One Of Quebec'S Best Birdwatching Places, With Strict Conservation Rules · Saint-Joachim, Quebec

Cap-Tourmente National Wildlife Area is a federal reserve on the north shore of the St. Lawrence River, about 50 km east of Quebec City, where steep wooded cliffs fall to a wide marsh and tidal flats. Tens of thousands of greater snow geese rest and feed here in spring and autumn on their migration between the Arctic and the American coast, one of the great wildlife sights of eastern Canada. A network of trails climbs through forest to viewpoints with long views of the river and Ile d'Orleans, and a nature centre explains the marsh and its birds. More than 300 species have been recorded here, and the area is run with strict conservation rules, including no dogs and set trail use. It is a place for quiet watching, not for crowds or noise. Plan for cold wind off the river, dress in layers and bring binoculars, because the best views are long ones, and the staff at the centre will happily tell you where the flocks are feeding that day.

Cap-Tourmente National Wildlife Area, a protected marsh and cliff reserve on the St. Lawrence about 50 km east of Quebec City; coordinates approximate, Saint-Joachim, Quebec, Canada

The reserve is open daily in the main visitor season, roughly from spring through autumn, with the nature centre and gate staffed about 9 to 5 and later in peak goose weeks - confirm opening dates and hours with the site. Trails are open in daylight and may close in poor winter conditions or during hunting weeks in designated areas. The snow goose peaks are roughly April to early May and from late September to early November, with the highest numbers in mid-October. Winter use is possible on foot or snowshoes but with reduced services, so confirm access, fees and trail status before you drive out.

Cap-Tourmente National Wildlife Area on Spottos · Explore more places on Spottos