Quebec City isn’t just about its charming cobblestone streets and historic walls — it’s also a fantastic base for outdoor enthusiasts looking for memorable hiking and trekking experiences. With its proximity to lush forests, national parks, and scenic wilderness, it offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and fitness levels. We especially love activities like the Goat Hiking, Beaver Dam Visit and picnic in Quebec forest for its playful approach to nature, and the Guided Hike in Jacques-Cartier National Park for a more traditional park adventure. Whether you’re chasing wildlife, exploring diverse ecosystems, or enjoying a peaceful forest walk, Quebec’s trails won’t disappoint.
If you’re considering planning your outdoor adventures, this list highlights the best hiking and trekking tours in Quebec City, explaining what makes each one unique, practical details, and who they are best suited for.
Quick Overview
This list includes three standout tours that showcase Quebec’s natural beauty. The first offers a fun and animal-centered experience with goats and beavers, perfect for casual nature lovers. The second combines guided hiking with park exploration, ideal for those who want a structured yet flexible outing. The third takes you into the boreal taiga, exploring ecosystems rarely seen by casual hikers. Each offers something different, so read on to find your perfect match.
1. Goat Hiking, Beaver Dam Visit and picnic in Quebec forest
At number 1, this Goat Hiking, Beaver Dam Visit and picnic in Quebec forest scores a perfect 5.0/5 with 122 reviews, making it a standout choice. The tour combines walking with charming packing goats, which turns a simple hike into a playful and interactive experience. These goats aren’t just adorable—they’re surprisingly intelligent and affectionate, making the walk both entertaining and relaxing. The guide, Francois, is praised for his knowledge and friendliness, adding a personal touch to the experience.
The hike also includes a visit to a massive beaver dam, providing a fascinating glimpse into wildlife and the ecosystem. As you stroll through Quebec’s lush forest and landscapes, you’ll see abundant local wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty. The tour ends with a picnic featuring fresh, homemade food, which is a nice break after exploring with the goats and Luna the shepherd’s dog.
This tour is perfect for animal lovers, families, or anyone seeking a light-hearted outdoor activity that offers something truly unique. The price of around $77.87 per person offers excellent value given the small-group intimacy and the memorable interactions with animals.
Bottom Line: A one-of-a-kind, animal-filled hike that’s perfect if you want to combine nature with a bit of fun and relaxation.
2. Guided Hike in Jacques-Cartier National Park
Coming in at number 2, the Guided Hike in Jacques-Cartier National Park offers a longer, more traditional outdoor experience. With a 4.5/5 rating from 94 reviews, it’s well-loved for its ease and flexibility. The tour takes about 4 to 8 hours, making it a solid option for half a day or a full day outside the city.
The trip starts with stress-free transport from Old Quebec, so you don’t need to worry about navigating or parking. Once at the park, you have the choice of guided trails, where your guide will suggest suitable routes based on your fitness level and interests. The highlight is the gourmet hike, where you’ll explore the park’s most beautiful trails and sample local products along the way. You’ll also receive a lunch, included in the price, which can be a bit underwhelming according to some reviews, but it’s convenient for a full-day outing.
In the afternoon, you get two hours of free time to further explore, rent a canoe, or simply relax by the river. The park is known for its spectacular scenery, with lush forests, river views, and peaceful trails that appeal to hikers of all experience levels.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a guided, scenic hike with the convenience of transportation and the option to explore more on your own.
3. Québec City: Boreal Taiga Guided Hike
Lastly, the Québec City: Boreal Taiga Guided Hike takes you into the remote beauty of Grands-Jardins National Park. This full-day adventure focuses on learning about the fragile taiga ecosystem—a landscape not often experienced by casual hikers. The tour emphasizes environmental education, with tastings of wild plants and local products along the trail, making it both a sensory and educational adventure.
Participants discover emblematic species like black spruce and reindeer lichen and listen to stories about caribou migration and ecological history. The guide shares insights into natural fire cycles and the importance of these ecosystems, making this a good pick for nature enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of Quebec’s wilderness.
While more expensive at $107 per person, this tour is suited for those interested in ecology, botany, and ecology-focused hikes. It’s not the best choice if you prefer a more casual walk or shorter outing but excels for those wanting an immersive experience in Canada’s boreal forests.
Bottom Line: Perfect for eco-minded travelers wanting a full-day, educational trek into Quebec’s lesser-known ecosystems.
$107 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Hiking Tour
Choosing between these options depends largely on your interests, fitness level, and available time. If you’re traveling with family or seeking a light, playful experience, the Goat Hiking with Beaver Dam visit offers a memorable mix of animals and scenery. For those who want a structured yet flexible day of exploring diverse landscapes, the Jacques-Cartier guided hike provides excellent value and scenery. Meanwhile, eco-conscious travelers or those with a full day free should consider the Boreal Taiga hike for deeper insights into Quebec’s wilderness.
Book early during peak months, especially in summer, when trails are most accessible. Consider your comfort level with walking distances, as some tours are longer or more physically demanding. Think about whether you prefer animal encounters, education, or simply soaking in scenic vistas — each tour offers a different flavor of Quebec’s outdoors.
In summary, Quebec City’s outdoor offerings are diverse enough to satisfy thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and families alike. Whether you opt for the playful charm of goats, the scenic tranquility of Jacques-Cartier Park, or the ecological depth of the boreal forest, these tours deliver authentic, memorable experiences. For the best chance at enjoying these adventures, plan ahead and secure your spot early — Quebec’s wilderness waits for you.