Two people in a canoe at Parc national d'Opémican.

Ready to camp in the evening, Parc national d’Aiguebelle.

Abitibi-Témiscamingue: explore it to the fullest

Published on April 9, 2026 • Destinations to explore

Some regions aren’t for everyone, and in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, some would say that’s perfectly fine. But if you take the time to explore it, you’ll discover something new at every turn and surprises around every corner. Steeped in history and brimming with unspoiled nature, this vast, breathtaking region is perfect for a summer off the beaten path. Whether in the forest, on the water, or underground, each experience is authentic and unique.

Abitibi-Témiscamingue: explore it to the fullest

This article is presented by

Tourisme Abitibi-Témiscamingue

Three destinations, one adventure

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Wildlife Reserve and National Parks circuit is the perfect way to travel the region and take in its vast natural beauty. Start your adventure at the Réserve faunique La Vérendrye, where 800 km of maintained routes and nearly 500 campsites turn canoe-camping into an authentic wilderness experience.

To the north, in Parc national d’Aiguebelle, you’ll find a suspended footbridge, pillow lavas, fault lakes, and giant’s kettles. To the south, in Parc national d’Opémican, round out the experience with Opémika Falls, a heritage circuit, bike paths, and a paddling route that ends with your feet in the water.

Yellow canoe on a misty lake in Abitibi-Témiscamingue.

History at your fingertips

Discover the region’s rich history at the T.E. Draper – Chantier Gédéon historic site and immerse yourself in the world of lumberjacks and log drivers like never before.

Aboard the T.E. Draper, the region’s most powerful log tug from 1929 to 1972, discover an exhibition in the former boatshed dedicated to the forestry trades of the past. Try your hand at sawing wood, handle real tools, and hear the stories of the people who shaped this era.

Next door at the Chantier Gédéon, explore an authentic reconstruction of a 1930s–1940s lumber camp made up of five buildings along a forest trail, for a taste of what life was like working in the woods.

The T.E Draper ship in Abitibi-Témiscamingue.

A world above and below ground to explore

Built on rock and ore, Abitibi-Témiscamingue reveals its mining heritage along the Mining Experience circuit. Start at the Musée minéralogique de l’Abitibi-Témiscamingue to discover what gives the region’s soil its distinctive sparkle, then head to the Canadian Malartic Mine, one of the largest open-pit gold mines in Canada, where a lookout offers an impressive view of the site.

Looking for adventure? Put on a helmet and headlamp and venture 91 metres underground at La Cité de l’Or. And before heading back, stop by Village-Minier-de-Bourlamaque, where log houses and interactive video displays connect the region’s history to the surrounding landscape.

With so much to see and explore, let yourself be charmed by the wonders of Abitibi-Témiscamingue!