Differences between Jacques Cartier Park and La Mauricie Park

Hello Raychris, Your question is way too vague to answer properly, but I’ll try to give you some quick comparisons. I’ve visited both parks several times, and they’re both wonderful. Both parks are huge (Jacques Cartier = 670 km² and Mauricie = 536 km²). They both offer tons of activities. Mauricie Park is run by the Canadian government. Jacques Cartier Park is run by the Quebec government. The daily entry fee is pretty much the same: $9–$10 per adult per day. There’s about 200 km between the two parks, or a 2.5-hour drive. If you’re planning to book a room near Quebec City, Jacques Cartier Park should be your priority. It’s up to you, though. I encourage you to check out both parks’ websites to pick one or more activities. Quebec is big!

Happy travels

I have some French friends visiting?... I’m taking them to Jacques-Cartier Park. But they wouldn’t be disappointed if we went to La Mauricie instead.

Hi, It's true that my question is pretty vague 😛, but you’ve already helped answer part of it. I’ll check out both websites like you suggested, but could you tell me if the wildlife and plant life are the same, and which one you think is a must-see? Thanks

Hi there, Mauricie: Laurentian flora and fauna, and Jacques-Cartier: as you gain altitude, you get closer to Arctic wildlife and plants. Check out Martin Deschamps' website.

Hi Raychris,

yes, I know my reply is late. Several events have somewhat delayed my activities. When it comes to wildlife, you can easily encounter the same mammal species in both parks. The two parks have practically the same mammals, except for Jacques Cartier Park, which is home to the Tuktu ("Inuktituk" in Inuit language) or Caribou. You might have the opportunity to observe it—perhaps—at the summit of Mount Jacques Cartier in July or August. This animal is called the Woodland Caribou and is endangered in this area.

In both parks, the mammals you can encounter without too much difficulty are: American hare, squirrels, beaver. If luck is on your side, you might also see deer, moose, otter, black bear, coyote, porcupine, etc.

Regarding flora, both parks have essentially the same tree species. Jacques Cartier Park is located in the boreal forest and, being at a higher altitude, has its own lichens (don’t forget your magnifying glass!). La Mauricie Park, located further south in our province, has a mixed forest.

Personally, I visit La Mauricie Park in the spring for its large brook trout lakes because I’m passionate about fly fishing. But for breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, spectacular viewpoints, and endless forests, Jacques Cartier Park is by far the most beautiful park in Quebec. It’s a must-see.

If you enjoy fishing for Atlantic salmon, you can make your dream come true. The Jacques Cartier River has some, and it’s only 45 minutes from Quebec City.

Happy New Year 2025