The Sentier Ouiatchouan stretches for about 30 kilometers along the Ouiatchouan River between the historic village of Val-Jalbert and the Ermitage Saint-Antoine in Lac-Bouchette, Quebec. The trail offers breathtaking views of numerous rapids, including the Maligne and Ouiatchouan Falls, which stand at 72 meters high. The route passes through a diverse mixed forest, some of which includes trees over 100 years old, and runs over mountains that offer panoramic views of Lac Saint-Jean.
The trail offers various entry points that allow for shorter hikes, such as the 20 km Sentier des Draveurs from Saint-François-de-Sales to Val-Jalbert and the 10 km Sentier des Portageurs to the Ermitage. There are also shorter loop trails for easy exploration, such as the 6 km Sentier de Philomène or the 5 km Sentier du Flâneur. There are also shelters and bivouac opportunities along the trail, making it attractive for multi-day trips.
The name “Ouiatchouan” comes from the Innu language and means “white broth” in reference to the rapids. Combining nature, history and scenic beauty, this trail attracts hikers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a deeper experience of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region.