Hiking Rocher-Percé and Mont Sainte-Anne, Québec, Canada

My last adventure on the Gaspé Peninsula of Québec would be the picturesque Rocher-Percé in Parc National de l'Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé. Although I was not able to make it to the rock itself, I hiked Mt Sainte-Anne which had excellent views of both Bonaventure Island and Rocher-Percé

Parc National de l'Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé

Previous: Hiking Forillon National Park. 

My trip to the Gaspésie was soon coming to an end as I made my way back to Portland Maine. I took the most scenic route possible which involved a long but pretty drive along the eastern peninsula which included a quick hiking near Rocher-Percé or Pierced Rock. This rock has become somewhat of an international symbol of the Gaspésie and shows up on the covers of most regional tourism brochures. It is both the natural symbol of the Gaspé Peninsula and the Québec Maritime. Its a fitting one too with its unique natural beauty which couldn't be found anywhere else in Canada or the world. While this would be my last sight on this trip, it would not be the least!

Compared to the rest of the towns I saw, Percé was more cosmopolitan and catered more towards the general tourist. It was a busy small town with all kinds of shops, small motels and novelty stores. The centerpiece of the action was, of course, Rocher-Percé which is a massive monolith with a curiously shaped sea-arch. It is instantly recognizable-

Rocher-Percé from across the bay

I visited the tourism department and they gave me directions to hike Mt Sainte-Anne which has a great view of the whole town, Rocher-Percé and Bonaventure Island. It is about a 2.5 hour hike to the summit and back and the crowds thin as you climb higher. Along the way there were about 5 lookouts which offered different angles and views of the rock. The hike itself was steep but short enough to do in a half day.

The hike helps you appreciate how massive the rock actually is

At the summit of Mont Sainte-Anne, there is a curious sight- an outdoor Catholic Church! What a spectacular place for a church! There were all the necessities of a regular church- pews, choir seats, a pulpit and statues... but no walls. Instead the congregation was surrounded by the natural beauty of the peninsula. I wish I was there for a service.

Mont Sainte-Anne hike, Quebec

Well I still had a long way to travel back to Portland, Maine so I could not stay too long. However I did drive around town and found another great view of the rock with the arch-

And that is why it is called "Pierced Rock

It was a nice end to an epic trip. From here I drove the southern end of the peninsula around Chaleur Bay and back into New Brunswick. It was sad to leave but I'm sure I'll be back for more adventures. After all, Québec is a big place!

Au revoir, Québec!

Lire. Plan. Partez à l'aventure!
Read. Plan. Get Out There!