Mestachibo Trail

Mestachibo Trail (Sentier Mestachibo) is a challenging Quebec backcountry hike that follows the Sainte-Anne-du-Nord River. It’s mapped as a multi-day route with a total hiking distance of 23.81 km, and it’s commonly run as an out-and-back or a shuttle hike in one direction.

Route character is hilly and technical, with multiple steep ascents and descents on rugged terrain. Expect sustained up/down along the river corridor rather than a flat stroll.

The trail includes two suspension bridges that cross the Sainte-Anne River; they are each about 70 m long. Mid-route, there are belvederes positioned above the canyon to look down over the river rapids and canyon terrain.

The western end centers on Jean-Larose waterfalls at the base of Mont-Sainte-Anne Resort. Many hikers plan the day around reaching those waterfalls as the turnaround or drop-off point.

Access is straightforward at the two ends: one common start point is Saint-Ferréol-les-Neiges church, and the other is the Mont-Sainte-Anne/Jean-Larose waterfalls parking area. The two-ended layout supports both one-way shuttles and out-and-back plans.

Hike timing is generally a long-season trail use: summer hiking and winter snowshoe use are supported by the trail access being free of charge. One commonly cited moving-time range for a single-direction hike is about 6.5–7.5 hours, reflecting the steepness and terrain.

The elevation gain is listed at approximately 924 m for the full one-way route, so pacing matters—especially on the steeper climbs and descents between the river crossings and the canyon viewpoints.

Famous-hike status is tied to the river scenery plus the suspension bridges and canyon belvederes; it’s the kind of route where routefinding plus footing on rough ground matter as much as distance.

More information: Eva and Miller Lakes Trail in Mount Revelstoke National Park, B.C. — Di..., Route: Mestachibo Trail (QC, Canada) - Fastest Known Time, Pukaskwa Coastal Trail: Hatties Cove to North Swallow and Back (9 days...