West sector: from Matane River to Beaulieu Lake - 72 km

From summit to summit

The portion of the international Appalachian trail under the responsibility of the Matane committee covers the western part of the Chic-choc mountain range. Of the 72 kilometers of linear path found there, 66 are found in the Matane wildlife reserve. Hikers can choose from multiple day hikes or long hikes with rustic camping accommodations.

Moving west to east, the trail first runs along the Matane River for more than 6 kilometers before reaching John Station, which marks the official entrance to the reserve. The river follows the path for another 3.5 kilometers before entering the first ascent. What interests: rapids, ponds, canals, pits, beaver dam, walkways, etc. Then it is the climb to the first summit to then follow the southern escarpment of the Chic-shock mountains, at an average altitude of 500 to 600 meters. We discover beautiful panoramas of the Matane river valley, the southern part of the peninsula and the surrounding lakes. It is also the kingdom of the moose and the territory of the golden eagle. Two couples nest in this area. Observe well. The path then descends before embarking on the demanding climb of the Mont de l'Ouest, which rises to 922 meters. The summit offers a beautiful panorama to the east and several streams dotted with waterfalls and falls crisscross the massif. Beautiful views of Lake Matane also precede the descent. What a marvel that this narrow body of water surrounded by high mountains.

The path then begins to climb the narrow mountain ridge that overlooks the eastern shore of the lake. It offers superb views of the lake and the deep valley of Desjarlais Creek. A beautiful bog is crossed before arriving at the peak which offers a breathtaking view of the chain of lakes and the massif of Mont de l'Ouest. The Gros Ruisseau lake and a series of peaks dot the route which leads to Mont Pointu (930 meters) and Mont Craggy (846 meters) which, through their rocky promontories, offer very beautiful, sometimes dizzying, views. vast expanse of forest that stretches at their feet and on the St. Lawrence River in the distance. The descent of Mount Craggy presents remarkable views of the neighboring Mont Blanc and the pass that connects them. The ascent of Mont Blanc, which culminates at 1065 meters, is rewarded with wide panoramas. We then see all the way traveled. The krummohlz forest leads to the impressive and rough north flow then to the beautiful alpine meadow which opens onto the majestic mountain panorama which extends to the east. The meeting of an alpine bog precedes arrival at the clearing which reveals a splendid view of Lake Beaulieu, Lake T and the surrounding mountains. The campsite is below.