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Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock National Park adventures

Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock National Park Adventures

Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock National Park is a scenic coastal park in the Gulf of St. Lawrence known for its striking limestone formations and one of North America's largest northern gannet colonies, offering unique wildlife viewing and coastal hiking opportunities.

1,025 acres
Acres Protected
5 miles
Miles of Trails
100,000+
Annual Visitors
1985
Year Established

About Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock National Park

 

Located off the coast of the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec, Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock National Park is distinguished by its spectacular geological and ecological features. The park encompasses Bonaventure Island, a 4.15-square-kilometer island famous for hosting one of the largest northern gannet colonies in the world, and the iconic Percé Rock, a massive limestone formation emerging from the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The surrounding waters and cliffs provide critical habitats for numerous seabirds including puffins, razorbills, and cormorants. Historically, Percé Rock has served as a landmark for mariners since the 16th century, while Bonaventure Island has a rich past tied to fishing communities and bird conservation efforts. Visitors can explore a network of maintained trails through diverse habitats of rocky shores, boreal forests, and grasslands rich with wildflowers. Key recreational activities include guided birdwatching tours, photography of seabird colonies and Percé Rock, kayaking around the island, and cruising to sights within the park. Winter visits are limited by weather and access, but summer and early fall provide the best conditions for wildlife observation and hiking. The blend of geological grandeur and vibrant birdlife makes this park a favored destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Highlights

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Percé Rock - a massive limestone formation and iconic natural arch

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Northern gannet colony on Bonaventure Island - one of the largest in North America

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Seabird observation sites including puffins and razorbills

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Scenic coastal hiking trails with panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence

Notable Natural Features

Percé Rock

A 433-meter long and 88-meter high limestone formation rising from the Gulf of St. Lawrence, known for its natural arch and dramatic appearance.

Northern Gannet Colony

Home to nearly 60,000 breeding pairs of northern gannets, making it one of the largest and most accessible colonies in the world.

Coastal Hiking Trails

Well-maintained trails that provide spectacular views of bird colonies, the island's cliffs, and the surrounding seascape.