Traversée des Chic-Chocs

Traversée des Chic-Chocs (La Traversée des Chic-Chocs) is a long, multi-day point-to-point backpacking trek through Québec’s Chic-Choc Mountains, run inside Parc national de la Gaspésie. The route is mapped as a ~95.8 km thru-hike intended for experienced, fit hikers.

Plan on 6 to 8 days on trail. The typical itinerary runs west to east, using a shuttle or arranged vehicle drop-off because the trek doesn’t return to the starting point.

The route is built around high terrain: it crosses alpine ridges and remote valleys and includes numerous summits over 1,000 m. Expect heavy elevation change—over 9,500 m total—so pacing and navigation ability matter.

Season and access are constrained: the full trail is open from July 1 to September 30. Reservations are required through the park system for backcountry campsites and roofed shelters, since capacities are limited.

Backcountry logistics are part of the experience. Water is available at refuges/campsites along the way, and pit toilets are available at campsites and shelters. Campfires are prohibited in the backcountry throughout the park.

If you want highlights to key your planning, the mapped traverse passes through peaks associated with the Chic-Chocs high country, including Mont Albert, Mont Logan, and Mont Jacques-Cartier.

A practical way to think about the route: it’s managed as a single continuous traverse with end-to-end shuttle timing, and you’ll usually hike toward the Discovery/Sector receiving areas rather than starting and finishing at the same trailhead.

More information: Chic-Chocs Traverse Backpacking Guide – Québec's Epic ..., 11 Epic Backpacking Trails In Quebec's Stunning Wilderness, Randonnée : les 10 plus hauts sommets à gravir au Québec - Espaces