This national park with thousands of islands is home to Canada’s largest concentration of monoliths

Who wants to go island hopping? If you’re in Quebec or planning a trip this upcoming season, the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve is a must-visit.

Home to thousands of islands and islets, the national park is considered to house the largest concentration of monoliths (sea-sculpted columns) in Canada, which makes for all the more exciting adventures as you navigate them all via sea excursions.

These guided sea excursions by Parks Canada take visitors to multiple of the 20-some main islands of the park, all with breathtaking landscapes that are larger than life. From the boreal forests of Île Quarry to exploring the unusual flora and sculptures on Île du Fantôme and île Niapiskau, there’s something for every type of nature lover here.

As for the largest island of the Park, there are two varieties of limestone monoliths to take in: One that looks like a zoo populated by “stone animals,” according to Parks Canada, and another that is shaped like a castle!

Botany enthusiasts can spot more than 490 species of vascular plants alone, ranging from arctic-alpine plants to rare Nordic vegetation.

In addition to close to 80 km worth of hiking opportunities across nine different islands, visitors can enjoy kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, explore two lighthouses, and walk down multiple scenic boardwalks.

Overnight info

Finally, those looking for a unique overnight stay at the park can check out the teardrop-shaped “duplexes” called Ôasis, available at select national parks.

The Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve Ôasis is located on Île du Havre and on Grande Île, consisting of a convertible table/bed on the main level and a suspended hammock loft above. Perfect for couples or a pair of friends looking to get up close and personal with the park’s dramatic natural landscapes!

So there you have it, island lovers! A trip to see the Mingan Archipelago is certainly one for the books.

Happy island hopping!

Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve 

Where: 1010 Promenade Des Anciens, Havre-Saint-Pierre, QC

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