Between the river and the mountains, the Côte-de-Beaupré region is full of family-friendly activities just waiting to be explored — and it’s only 30 minutes from Québec City! Whether you’re planning a full vacation or just a day trip, this little slice of paradise is sure to please kids and grown-ups alike.
Main photo: Au Québ
Over a billion years old, Canyon Sainte-Anne
is a breathtaking natural site accessible to all. The 2.2 km trail takes you across three suspended bridges, one of which soars 60 metres above the gorge!
It’s a fantastic outing for families, with life-size animal sculptures, two scavenger hunts, and a brand-new interactive adventure using your smartphone. New for 2024: the digital “Draveur Mystery” rally! Download the custom app, search for clues along the trails, and answer 15 questions to solve the mystery — every participant receives a prize and an entry for a draw.
Top it all off with a ride on the AirCANYON — the only ride of its kind in a Canadian natural park — which launches you across the canyon at 50 km/h for unbeatable views of the Sainte-Anne River and the 74-metre waterfall (taller than Niagara Falls!). And the price? Surprisingly accessible!
Photo: Au Québ
Located at the foot of Mont-Sainte-Anne, Jean-Larose Fall is one of the region’s most impressive waterfalls, just seven metres shorter than Montmorency Falls. A brand-new staircase leads to the base, where you can admire the cascade’s three-tiered drop. Perfect for a family picnic and short hike.
Getting there: after the Mont-Sainte-Anne traffic light on Route 360, park immediately on the right after the bridge. The moderate-level loop trail includes 350 steps with viewpoints along the way and a gentle return trail for a full 4 km circuit.
Photo: 4000 Hikes
Part of the new Côte-de-Beaupré Gourmet Trail, this farm offers a wide range of freshly harvested and homemade products — along with unbeatable views of the St. Lawrence River and Île d’Orléans. Kids will love the seasonal U-pick options (strawberries, raspberries, pears in summer; apples and squash in fall), and everyone will appreciate a slice of homemade pie.
Photo: Au Québ
This third-wave café serves specialty coffee and iced drinks for the whole family. Just off Avenue Royale and steps from the new Sainte-Anne Wharf, it’s the perfect stop — especially in summer, when the garage doors open and you can feel the warm breeze.
Photo: Au Québ
Mont-Sainte-Anne is a top destination for mountain bikers. A skills park with a pump track helps riders of all ages practice before heading into the forest. Expect jumps, berms, and drops of all sizes! Two downhill trails (La Baptême and La Grisante) are now open to beginner and intermediate riders, and a single-lift pass lets you ride up and enjoy a scenic descent.
For new riders, the Boucle d’Or and Germaine trails in the St-Julien sector are perfect introductions. Cross-country and downhill in one place — it’s the best of both worlds!
Photo: Au Québ
Just minutes from Old Québec, Montmorency Falls Park combines history and nature with its stunning 83-metre-high waterfall. Explore panoramic trails, take a guided tour, stroll across the dramatic footbridge, or challenge yourself on the via ferrata. There’s also a picnic area, kids’ play structure, and hiking trails — perfect for families.
Photo: Sépaq
This protected area is where the river, marshlands, plains, and mountains meet. Designed with families in mind, its short trails offer beautiful views and birdwatching opportunities — especially in spring and fall when thousands of snow geese migrate through.
At the interpretation centre, kids can learn all about the local wildlife. The 1 km Bois-Sent-Bon trail leads to a lookout with telescopes and guides to help you spot the birds. On the Moqueur-Chat trail (0.4 km), children love the giant bird sculptures — and yes, it’s stroller-friendly!
Photo: MJ Marcotte (ECCC)
Located in Château-Richer, this family-friendly amusement complex features a 1.4 km go-kart track and multiple kart options, including two-seaters for adults and kids, plus easy-to-handle single karts designed for children. With safety harnesses, roll bars, and adjustable seats, everyone leaves with a huge smile.
Photo: Au Québ
This riverside campground and activity site sits between the St. Lawrence River and the Sainte-Anne Basilica. A green, peaceful space for reconnecting with nature, the Domaine also hosts a full summer lineup of events — including the Rythmes et Papilles micro-festival from August 16 to 18.
On-site amenities include:
• Firepit areas
• Picnic spots with charcoal BBQs
• Riverside seating areas
• Retro bike and roller skate rentals
• A family-friendly loop trail
Photo: Les Festifs
