Fall in Bas-Saint-Laurent: mushrooms, nature adventures and encounters with marine life

In September, the landscapes of Bas-Saint-Laurent don their finest colours, bathed in a golden light. Whether travelling along the coast or venturing into the high country, the season is perfect for making all sorts of discoveries, from gourmet feasts to nature adventures and memorable marine-life sightings. Here are three ideas to make the most of fall in Bas-Saint-Laurent.

Celebrate Mushroom Month in Kamouraska

From September 19 to 21, 2025, the Festival des champignons forestiers du Kamouraska (forest mushroom festival) invites you to delve into the world of fungi. Talks, classes, a tour of the mycotechnology research pilot plant, culinary workshops and food trucks all vie for the most creative ways to celebrate mushrooms.

There is also Mushland, a guided forest excursion that will introduce you to the fascinating world of mushrooms, with shuttle service available throughout the weekend. Tastings, music shows and a range of workshops complete the festival’s activities.

Immerse yourself in nature

Be sure to visit Terfa – Duchénier Wildlife Reserve and the spectacular Portes de l’Enfer (hell’s gate) canyon in Saint-Narcisse-de-Rimouski. Between the hiking trails—some of which allow dogs on leash—the highest suspended footbridge in Quebec, the Grand Sault waterfall and the immersive woods walks such as the Route du Diable (devil’s road) and Portes d’Oniria (gates of Oniria), you are sure to be wowed. 

Want to stay overnight and make the most of your visit? There are cottages, yurts, ready-to-camp accommodations and campsites to rent.

Watch belugas in a fall landscape

If whales fascinate you, make time to visit the Putep ’t-awt observatory (meaning beluga trail in the Wolastoqey language). This mountain trail in Gros-Cacouna, which you can visit free of charge, leads to lookouts with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River, where you can watch these amazing marine mammals without disturbing them. Designed in accordance with Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation values, it will immerse you in the world of beluga whales, creating memories you won’t soon forget. The trail is open until October 19, 2025.