1 866-339-6202 - Escape Like Never Before to Eeyou Istchee Baie

Transcription

Summary
Instructions
How to use this guide
Symbols and pictograms
used in this guide
General information
Quebec’s tourist regions
Road access to the region
2
2
3
3
Tourist information on
Eeyou Istchee Baie-James
4
4
Information offices
Complaint4
Tourist information on all regions5
Other access to the region5
5
An environmentally friendly guide
Discover the region
Regional map
Inside back cover
6
Portrait of the region
The Route de la Baie-James
13
The Route Transtaïga
35
The Route du Nord
Highway 113 Vallée de la Turgeon 38
71
80
Visiting and having fun
Events84
Culture and heritage
88
88
Cultural tours Guided visits 88
Arts and crafts
89
Museum
91
Aboriginal experience
91
Nature and outdoor activities
Riding92
Recreatif equipment, location,
sell and repairs
92
Aerotourism92
Excursions / Adventures
93
Wildlife observation and
interpretation94
Public Beaches
94
Nautical Circuit
94
95
Voile
Canoeing95
Golf96
ATV96
Mountain bike paths
97
97
Bike rental
Family activities
98
98
Hiking 100
Winter fun
Snowmobile excursions
100
Snowmobile clubs
101
Cross-country skiing
101
Hunting and fishing102
Accommodation and food services
Food services
104
Accommodation106
Bed & Breakfasts
109
Hotels110
Campgrounds112
Tourist homes
113
(Cottages, condos)
Outfitters114
Roadside rest areas and
camgrounds rustic
116
Useful information
Services Practical information
118
122
Memory jogger
Alphabetical index
124
125
This tourist guide was published by Tourisme Baie-James and Eeyou Istchee Tourism in collaboration with their partners and Tourisme
Québec. Only the members of the regional tourism associations are included in this guide. Tourisme Baie-James and Eeyou Istchee
Tourism are not responsible for any unintentional omissions or errors. Feel free to send us any suggestions and comments. Our
complete address is given on page 4.
Legal deposit:
© Tourisme Québec
— Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec, 2014
ISBN 978-2-922614-09-1
© Tourisme Baie-James
— Library and Archives Canada, 2014
ISSN 1495-8341
Need help? See the instructions for using the guide: page 2 to 5. (blue section)
1
La route de la Baie-James
How to use this guide
La route de la Baie-James
Matagami
1
Route de la Baie-James
Matagami
Matagami
population 1534
819 739-2541
[email protected] / www.matagami.com
Via 109 Highway, Route de la Baie-James Km 0
pub.
p. 57
2
population 1534
Matagami is the western entrance of the Eeyou
Istchee Baie-James region. This town in a vast
territory obviously gives an important place in
outdoor activities. Within the city, it is possible
to navigate around 3.5 km of hiking trails located
in the forest providing access to an observation
tower, the rapids, a terrace, a wildlife diversity.
The resources are abundant, making Matagami
an ideal place for lovers of adventure. Nine major
rivers are accessible in a very close radius around
Matagami. The number of hours of sunshine in
the summer is higher than in areas farther south,
allowing full enjoyment of the golf course, tennis
courts, the campground and the beach. In winter,
snowmobiling became queen. The 40 km of
local trails converge toward the federated ones
and are available for several weeks because of
the length of our winters. The same is true for
trail-country skiing that will satisfy skiers even
the most experienced!
content section.
Text in italics (following the
description of a municipality or attraction) identified
with a black triangle explains where to go to visit
819 739-2541
819 739-2541
municipality or attraction. 3 The symbols used
[email protected]
/the
www.matagami.com
3
Via route 109, route de la Baie-James km 0
pub
p.457
Observation tower, Bell-Nature park © Ville de Matagami
mes
1 Each colour refers to a different category in the
population 1534 2
in the guide are
explained
below or presented in the
Via route 109, route de la Baie-James
km
0
Matagami
constitue
point indicated
d’entrée ouest
4 Thelepage
legend of
each table.
next tode la
région Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. Une ville située
Matagami constitu
dans un si vaste territoire accorde évidemment
other information
on the activity
or attraction
Eeyou
Istch
une place importante
auxrégion
activités
de plein air.
5 The même
À l’intérieur
de la dans
ville,
il est
possible
highlighted.
pictogram
indicates
tourist de
5
un si vaste
Matagami constitue le point d’entrée ouest de la
sillonneron3,5
de sentiers pédestres situés en
establishments
thekm
route.
région Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. Une ville située
unetourplace
importa
forêt, donnant accès à une
d’observation,
dans un si vaste territoire accorde évidemment
des rapides, une terrasse ainsi
qu’à
une
faune
et
À l’intérieur même
une place importante aux activités de plein air.
une flore diversifiées. Les ressources y sont abonÀ l’intérieur même de la ville, il est possible de
sillonner
3,5idéal
km d
dantes, ce qui fait de Matagami
un endroit
sillonner 3,5 km de sentiers pédestres situés en
pour
les amateurs
d’aventure.
Neufdonnant
plans
d’eau ac
The
information
in
this
guide
was
accurate
as
of
fall
2013.
Prices
do
not
include
taxes,
unless
otherwise
indicated,
and
are
forêt,
forêt, donnant accès à une tour d’observation,
sont accessibles dans un rayon très rapsubject to change without notice. The next edition will be availablemajeurs
in spring 2015.
des rapides,
une terrasse ainsi qu’à une faune et
desLe rapides,
une te
proché
autour
de Matagami.
nombre d’heures
une flore diversifiées. Les ressources y sont abond’ensoleillement
durant
l’été
y
est
plus
élevé
que
une flore diversifié
dantes, ce qui fait de Matagami un endroit idéal
Symbols
and
pictograms
used
in
this
guide
au sud, ce qui permet de jouir
dans
les
régions
plus
pour les amateurs d’aventure. Neuf plans d’eau
dantes,
ce qui fait
pleinement du terrain deV golf,
des
courts
illages
that
offerde tennis,
majeurs<
sont
accessiblesAirport
dans un rayon très
Secondary
hrap-Rest area
services
throughout
du
terrain
de
camping
et
de
la
plage.
la
proché autour
de Matagami.
Le nombre d’heures
> Main
Airport
( Permanent Visitor Center
pour les L’hiver,
amateurs
the region
motoneige
= Seaplane
? queSeasonal Visitor
Center devient reine. Les 40 km de sentiers
d’ensoleillement
durantbase
l’été y est plus élevé
sont
acces
locaux convergent vers les majeurs
sentiers fédérés
et sont
Gasplus
station
Pjouir
Covered Bridge
dans les régions
au sud, ce qui permet de
Ç Tourist road signs
accessibles durant plusieursproché
semaines autour
étant donnéde M
pleinement duHospital
terrain de golf, des courts de tennis,
du terrain de camping et de la plage. L’hiver, la
la longueur de nos hivers. Il en est de même pour
Accessreine.
for persons
with
motoneige
devient
Les 40 km
de impaired
sentiers mobility les sentiers de ski de fondd’ensoleillement
qui sauront satisfaire du
2 Complete
access
for persons
impaired mobility
locaux convergent
vers les
sentiers
fédérés with
et sont
les fondeurs les plus aguerris
! les régions plu
dans
3 durant
Partial
access for
personsétant
withdonné
impaired mobility
accessibles
plusieurs
semaines
more information, contact Kéroul at 514 252-3104 or visit www.keroul.qc.ca.
Only establishpleinement
du terra
la longueur
deFornos
hivers. Il en est de même pour
ments certified by Kéroul are listed in this guide.
les sentiers
de
ski
de
fond
qui
sauront
satisfaire
du terrain de cam
1 Tourist and Leisure Companion Sticker
les fondeurs
les
plus aguerris
!
Companions
of individuals
with this sticker are admitted free.
pub
p. 57
a description refers to the page of the guide with
Ç
© Louise Abbott
Ç
Visit our web site: www.escapelikeneverbefore.com
2014-03-10 11:05
Tour d’observation, parc Bell-Nature © Ville de Matagami
Tour d’observation, parc Bell-Nature © Ville de Matagami
18
14-01_Guide_BJ_13-34_Finaux.indd 18
Vacations adapted for
people with restricted
physical ability
Tourist road signs
motoneige devient
locaux convergent
accessibles durant
la longueur de nos
les sentiers
514 252-3104 de ski
les fondeurs les plu
ise Abbott
Look for blue signs! In Québec, they indicate the name of a region and
the route to services, attractions and activities. See www.panneaubleu.
com for more information.
2
18 et 22
General information
17
16
Québec’s tourist regions
21
18 et 22
17
16
15
14
2
13
7
11
19
12
10
9
4
20
5
3
1
6
8
Visit us on
www.facebook.com/regionstouristiquesquebec
15
14
2
1 Îles de la Madeleine
1 877 624-4437
3 tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com
1
5
7
2Gaspésie 13
1 800 4463-0323 tourisme-gaspesie.com
11
6
3Bas-Saint-Laurent
10 1 800
20 563-5268 bassaintlaurent.ca
4Québec
1 877 783-1608 quebecregion.com
19
9 8
5Charlevoix
1 800 667-2276 charlevoixtourism.com
12
1 888 831-4411 chaudiereappalaches.com
6Chaudière-Appalaches
7Mauricie
1 800 567-7603 mauricietourism.org
1 800 355-5755 easterntownships.org
8 Cantons de l’est
9Montérégie
1 866 469-0069 tourisme-monteregie.qc.ca
10Lanaudière
1 800 363-2788 lanaudiere.ca
11 Laurentides 1 800 561-6673 laurentians.com
1 800 363-7777 tourism-montreal.org
12Montréal
13Outaouais
1 800 265-7822 outaouaistourism.com
14Abitibi-Témiscamingue
1 800 808-0706 abitibi-temiscamingue-tourism.org
15 Saguenay – Lac-Saint-Jean 1 877 253-8387 saguenaylacsaintjean.ca
16 Côte-Nord | Manicouagan 1 888 463-5319 cotenord-manicouagan.com
17 Côte-Nord | Duplessis
1 888 463-0808 tourismeduplessis.com
1 888 748-8140 escapelikeneverbefore.com
18 Baie-James
1 877 465-2825 tourismelaval.com
19Laval
20 Centre-du-Québec
1 888 816-4007 tourismecentreduquebec.com
21Nunavik
1 888 594-3424 nunavik-tourism.com
22 Eeyou Istchee
1 888 268-2682 creetourism.ca
Road access to the region
Val-Paradis
Villebois
Beaucanton
* The distance to access these cities is the shortest and requires the use of gravel roads.
It is illegal to transport or use radar detectors in Québec.
3
General information
Tourist information on Eeyou Istchee Baie-James
Tourisme Baie-James
1252, route 167 Sud, C.P. 134, Chibougamau (Québec) G8P 2K6
Phone: 418 748-8140 or toll free 1 888 748-8140 (Canada and United States)
Fax: 418 748-8150
www.escapelikeneverbefore.com
[email protected]
Eeyou Istchee Tourism
203, Opemiska Meskino, C.P. 1167, Oujé-Bougoumou (Québec) G0W 3C0
Phone: 418 745-2220 or toll free 1 888 268-2682 (Canada and United States)
Fax: 418 745-2240
www.escapelikeneverbefore.ca
[email protected]
(
Permanent offices
?
Seasonal offices
Eeyou Istchee James Bay
Regional Government
tourist office
Km 6, route de la Baie-James
Matagami, J0Y 2A0
819 739-4473
[email protected]
www.greibj-eijbrg.ca
Chibougamau tourist office
512, route 167 Sud G8P 2X8
418 748-7276
[email protected]
Lebel-sur-Quévillon tourist office
900, boul. Quévillon J0Y 1X0
819 755-3363 / off-season: 819 755-4826
[email protected] / urbaloi@lebel-sur-quevillon.
com www.lebel-sur-quevillon.com
Radisson tourist office
198, rue Joliet J0Y 2X0
819 638-8687 / off-season: 819 638-7777
[email protected]
Information offices
You can find tourist information offices, indicated with the “?” pictogram on the
roadside or in tourism brochures, road signs and the panel at the entrance to
the office.
Complaint
To make a complaint about tourist services received in Québec, please contact Tourisme Québec
at 1 800 463-5009 (Canada and the United States) or [email protected].
4
Information
General information
générale
Renseignements
touristiques
pour toutes les régions
Tourist information
on all regions
Par
téléphone :
By phone:
Par
courriel :
By email:
Par
écrit :
By mail:
Au
comptoir :
In person:
(
Composez
sans frais, tous
lesajours
l’année,
à 17from
h, deMontréal
Montréal,
Toll free, year-around,
7 days
week,defrom
9 a.m.de
to95hp.m.
and else
du
Québec,
d’ailleurs
au Canada
et desand
États-Unis
1 877 877
266-5687
where
in Québec,
elsewhere
in Canada
the United States..........1
266-5687
[email protected]
[email protected]
Tourisme
Tourisme Québec,
Québec,Case
Casepostale
postale979,
979,Montréal
Montréal(Québec)
(Québec)H3C
H3C2W3
2W3Canada.
Canada
Renseignements
selon
les horaires
ci-dessous.
Les horaires
sujets
chanAs indicated in the
schedules
listed
below. Schedules
are sont
subject
to à
change.
gement.
Merciour
de site
les vérifier
dans bonjourquebec.com.
Please check
at www.bonjourquebec.com.
Bureaux
permanents
(offrantvarious
divers services
et produits
Permanent
offices (offering
tourist services
andtouristiques)
products).
Québec
:
Québec:
Centre
deQuébec.
Québec.12,
12,rue
rueSainte-Anne
Sainte-Anne(across
(face au
Château
Frontenac).
Centre Infotouriste of
from
Château
Frontenac).
21
juin
août :31,
9 h9àa.m.
19 hto; 17erp.m.
June
21au
to31
August
September
1 to
October
septembre
au 31
octobre
: 9 31,
h à 918a.m.
h ; to 6 p.m.
For
the de
restl’année
of the: year,
to 5 p.m.
Closed
December
and January 1.
le
reste
9 h à 917a.m.
h ; fermé
les 25
décembre
et 1er 25
janvier.
Montréal:
Centre Infotouriste
Infotouristede
of Montréal.
Montréal.1255,
1255,rue
ruePeel,
Peel,bureau
suite 100.
Montréal
:
Centre
100. 1er avril au
April
p.m.
June
31, 9 a.m.au
to 7 p.m.
20
juin1: to
9 hJune
à 1820,
h; 9
21a.m.
juinto
au631
août
: 9 h21à to
19 August
h ; 1er septembre
September
9 a.m. toau6 31
p.m.
November
Marchles
31, 9 a.m.
31
octobre : 19 to
h àOctober
18 h ; 1er31,
novembre
mars
: 9 h à 171 hto
; fermé
to décembre
5 p.m. Closed
December
25
et 1er
janvier. 25 and January 1.
Rigaud :
Centre Infotouriste
Infotouristede
ofRigaud.
Rigaud.Autoroute
Highway 40, sortie
exit 1212inau
Québec
Rigaud
:
Centre
Québec(Highway 417
in Ontario).
21 to August
31,au
9 31
a.m.
to :79p.m.
Forhthe
(Highway
417June
en Ontario).
21 juin
août
h à 19
; le rest
resteofdethe year,
9 a.m. to
December
25 and January
1.
l’année
: 95hp.m.
à 17 Closed
h ; fermé
les 25 décembre
et 1er janvier.
Rivière-Beaudette:: Centre
Centre Infotouriste
Infotouristede
of Rivière-Beaudette.
Rivière-Beaudette.Autoroute
Highway 20
Rivière-Beaudette
20 in
auQuébec
Québec
(Highway 401
in Ontario). June
21 au
to 31
August
a.m.
to; 7
(Highway
401 en
21 juin
août 31,
: 9 h9 à
19 h
lep.m.
resteFor
dethe rest
er
of the year,
5 p.m.les
Closed
December
January 1.
l’année
: 9 h 9à a.m.
17 hto
; fermé
25 décembre
et 25
1 and
janvier.
514 8732015
873-2015ou
or 11 877
BONJOUR(2665687)
(266-5687)
514
877 BONJOUR
Autre
Other accès
accessà to
la région
the region
Avions
Air Air
Creebec
11800
Airlines
Creebec
800567-6567
567-6567
Air Air
Creebec
(Chibougamau)
Creebec
(Chibougamau) 418
418748-3764
748-3764
Air Air
Inuit
Réservation
11800
Inuit
Reservation 800361-2965
361-2965
Aéroports Chibougamau-Chapais
418
Airports
Chibougamau-Chapais
418748-2211
748-2211
La Grande
– Radisson
819
La Grande
– Radisson 819638-8847
638-8847
Montréal-Trudeau
11800
Montreal-Trudeau
800465-1213
465-1213
Nolisement
Air Air
Inuit
11800
Charter
Flights
Inuit
800661-5850
661-5850
Hélicoptères
418
Canadian Canadiens
helicoptersLtée
418748-2602
748-2602
LesLes
Hélicoptères
Whapchiwem
Hélicoptères
Whapchiwem819
819638-7904
638-7904
Autobus
Autobus
Messier
418
Bus
Autobus
Messier
418748-2120
748-2120
Terminus
Chapais
418
Terminus
Chapais
418745-2778
745-2778
Terminus
Chibougamau
418418
748-2842
Terminus
Chibougamau
748-2842
Terminus
Lebel-sur-Quévillon
755-3518
Terminus
Lebel-sur-Quévillon819819
755-3518
Terminus
Matagami
819819
739-2501
Terminus
Matagami
739-2501
Terminus
– Montréal
514514
842-2281
Terminus
– Montréal
842-2281
Terminus
– Québec
418418
525-3000
Terminus
– Québec 525-3000
État
desconditions
routes
Road
Société
de développement
de la de
Baie-James
Société
de développement
la Baie-James
748-7777
418418
748-7777
www.sdbj.gouv.qc.ca
www.sdbj.gouv.qc.ca
Transports
Québec
Transports
Québec
511511
www.quebec511.info
www.quebec511.info 1 888
355-0511
1 888
355-0511
Environnement
An environmentally friendly guide
FPO FSC
Fabriqué
auinQuébec,
le papier
lequel
imprimé
ce guide
officiel
The paper
this official
touristsur
guide
wasest
made
in Québec
and touristique
contains 100%
chain
contient
100 certified
% de fibres
certifiées
en vertu
chaîne de traçabilité,
dont network
10 % de or
of custody
libre,
of which
10%deislapost-consumer
fibre. The
fibres
post-consommation.
Le réseau
associations
touristiquesand
régionales
(ATR)
se
regional
tourism associations
caresdes
about
the environment
promotes
healthy
Reread
and share this
soucie
l’environnement
en privilégiant
la saine
gestion des
forêts tout
en encourageant
forestdemanagement
while
encouraging
the Québec
economy.
guide before
recyclingAvant
it. de me recycler, faites-moi circuler !
l’économie
québécoise.
Need
Besoinhelp?
d’aide
See
? Référez-vous
the instructions
au mode
for using
d’emploi
the guide:
du guide
page
: p.22to
à5
5.(section
(blue section)
bleue).
55
The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory, queen of wide-open spaces…
T
he Eeyou Istchee Baie-James
territory…
Aboriginal Fisherman © Annie-Claude Roberge-Sekoya.ca
leads to the town of Matagami. From that point,
there are three different roads through the
Gold, silver, copper and zinc flow from its region: the Route de la Baie-James, completely
soil. Majestic structures rise from its bedrock, yield- paved and 620 km long, connecting Matagami
ing streams of power. Fish teem in its waters. The to Radisson. All along of this way, you can see
largest herd of caribou in the world migrates the Waskaganish, Eastmain, Wemindji and
across its frozen inland seas, defying wolves whose Chisasibi Cree communities. The Route du Nord,
howls blend into the gusting wind. Come discover a gravel road, 407 km long, linking the Route
extreme ranges of temperature, endless expanses de la Baie-James to Chibougamau passing by
of snow and a sky streaked with the glorious the Nemaska Cree community; and, finally, the
shimmerof northern lights! Cross coveredbridges, Route Transtaiga, a 688-km-long gravel road,
remnants of the past, meet artisansand hear Cree connecting Hydro-Québec’s power stations
Eeyou Native legends. Go beyond the 49th paral- together, all the way to Caniapiscau dam.
lel and visit a rich territory and its welcoming There are also flights from Montréal and Vald’Or to some coastal cree communities or
population.
Chibougamau.
The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory encompasses over 350,000 km2 between the 49th and
55th parallels. Comparing it to Germany, which The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James
covers 357,000 km2, gives some idea of its size. territory – Québec’s natural
Located roughly 800 km north of Montréal, the wilderness
Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory extends from The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory has a cold
Ontario and Baie James in the west to the continental climatecharacterized by significant
Monts Otish in the east; from Nunavik in the temperature fluctuations. The long, cold winter
north to the Abitibi and Saguenay–Lac-Saint- begins in November and lasts until April, with
Jean regions in the south. Highway 167 provides temperatures averaging -23°C but sometimes
access to the area from the east. It leads to dropping to -40°C. Summer extends from June to
Mistissini, Chibougamau, Oujé-Bougoumou, September with an average temperature of 17°C,
Chapais, Waswanipi and Lebel-sur-Quévillon occasionally risingto 30°C. Though the season is
via Highway 113. Highway 109, on the other short, summer is blessed with long days; the sun
hand, enters the territory from the west and rises at 5 a.m. and only sets in the late evening.
6
Partridge © Ville de Chibougamau
All the more reason to take full advantage of
the many outdoor activities available: fishing,
camping, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, biking,
ATV outings, etc. In the fall, hunting becomes
the star activity, while in winter, picturesque
snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing sledding reveal another facet of the territory’s
untouched expanses.
Photography and nature enthusiasts will enjoy
the many hiking trails developed along roads,
rivers and streams that offer unmatched vistas,
unique and authentic shots, memories evoking
long sighs and thoughts of returning. The
luminoushorizon of the northern sky will amaze
you with its pink and blue opalescence giving
way to blazing goldensunsets. Sparkling with
a million stars, the moonbrightvault lighting your
pathway through the night will enthral you.
You may even be lucky enough to see the celestial dance of the northern lights spreading their
shimmeringribbons across the sky. Take the time
to intensely experience every minute of your
stay here.
Wildlife and flora to discover
Mushroom © Ville de Matagami
Two types of vegetation fashion the landscape
of Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. The forest, almost
impenetrable, is sprinkled with groves, hardwoods
and a wide varietyof bushes and is brimming with
edible plants and wild berries. A little further north,
the undergrowth thins out, the hardwoods gradually disappear and the spruces become smaller in
size and number; the boreal forest gives way to
the taiga. Cladonia, or reindeer moss, grows very
slowly and takes many years to form the greenish
thalli that carpet the shallow acid soil of the Eeyou
Istchee Baie-James territory. Every year, herds of
caribou from the Rivière aux Feuilles and the
Rivière George leave Nunavik and travel thousands
of kilometresseeking new pastures. It is therefore
very important not to harm these carpets of lichen,
which are a staple of their diet!
7
Geese © Gaston Cooper for COTA
For all its calm appearance, the forest is also
home to about forty species of mammals, including wolves, lynxes, foxes, bears and moose. In
the sky, sheltered beneath the rushes, perched
on branches or paddling on the waters, birds
make their presence felt and their call heard.
Ducks, snow geese, snowy owls, eagles, falcons,
ptarmigans, Canada geese, and loons figure
among the bird life of the Eeyou Istchee BaieJames territory.
The abundance of its aquatic fauna is increasingly
recognized and the diversity as well as the enormous
size of certain species make it a real paradise for
fishing enthusiasts. Anglers travel a long way to
try their luck for walleye, lake trout, brook trout,
pike and other species in the crystal-clear waters
of the territory’s innumerable lakes and rivers.
Baie-d’Hudson and Baie James also boast fish
and marine mammals such as whales, belugas
and seals, down from the Arctic.
The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory has the
largest expanses of fresh water in Québec, real
inland seas. Lac Mistassini, for instance, excavated
by glaciers, is the biggest natural lake in the province with an area of 2,115 km2 —nearly three
times the size of Lac-Saint-Jean. As for the reservoirs of the La Grande c omplex, they represent the
largest man-made waterbodies; in fact, Caniapiscau
reservoir encompasses more than 4,318 km2,
equivalent to 39 billion cubic meters of water.
The inhabitants, from past to present
Two groups live side by side in the area:
Jamesians, with a population of about 17,000,
and the Cree of Eeyou Istchee, numbering nearly 16,000 people.
Tanika© Louise Abbott
Eeyou Istchee “Land of the People”
8
The ancestors of the current Cree populationhave
occupied the land from time immemorial. In fact,
the Crees of Eeyou Istchee (Land of the People)
live along the rivers and around the lakes of the
land surroundingthe southeastern extremity of
Baie James. Their traditionalway of life is based
on hunting, fishingand trapping. Thanks to their
© Centre d’amitié Eenou de Chibougamau
Aboriginal in a canoe
The first contacts with Europeans, datingfrom
the beginning of the 17th century, mainly
involved the fur trade, which lasted nearly
300 years. With the passing years, the Crees
considerably changed their lifestyle. To meet the
demands of the fur trade, they graduallyset
aside big game hunting and their nomadic way
of life, and trapping became a major activity. The
trading post sites became the location of today’s
Cree communities.
In the summer, fishing is in full swing in the
coastal bays and river estuaries. At the end of the
season comes the long-awaited time for picking
berries, small fruits and other plants; the Crees use
them not only as food but also as ingredients in
medicine and dyes.
Aboriginal Art
© Gaston Cooper for COTA
creativityand ingenuity, the Crees have traveled
through and become familiar with this huge territory, subsistingmainly on flora and wildlife from
the sea and the forest.
Defining themselves as a nation of hunters –
Ndooheenou – the Crees followed the seasons and
animal migrations. Among big game, caribouwas
their favourite prey. It not only suppliedthem with
food but also provided essentialelements for making clothing, tools, snowshoes, moccasins and
teepees. As for small game, goose hunting in the
spring and fall contributedto filling the larder
then, and still does today, for two months.
During Goose Break, one of the major traditional
activitiesobserved by the Crees, the whole family
returns to the nomadic lifestyle for two weeks.
9
access, depending on the case, to territories
they previously occupied alone, where they can
practicetraditional hunting, fishing and trapping
activities.
The long adventure of the first Europeans to
come to America mingled with the history of the
early occupants of this huge territory. Their
explorationof the new continent was fuelled by
the search for a new route to Asia and, in 1610,
Sir Henry Hudson discovered the bay that bears
his name. In 1631, Thomas James published the
map of Baie-d’Hudson showing once and for all
that it was not the Northwest Passage, the fabled
sea route to the Orient. However, people rapidly
realizedthat the region was full of animals whose
furs were among the most sought-after in the
world. During that period, Pierre-Esprit Radisson
and Médard Chouart, Sieur des Groseilliers,
developed the fur trade in New France. They first
managed to interest the English and, in May 1670,
King Charles granted a royal charter to the
Hudson’s Bay Company, which is still in operation
© Louise Abbott
Though some Crees still make a living from trap
pingand other traditional activities such as hunting and fishing, modern life has considerably
changed the behaviour of hunters and trappers.
With longer distances to cover, they now travel by
snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle, depending on
the season. In fact, the significant transformation
of the landscape first caused by mining and logging activities, and all the more by the construction
of huge hydroelectric facilities and roads since the
beginning of the 1970s, has significantly affected
day-to-day life and traveling related to seasonal
activities for the Crees.
Since the James Bay and Northern Québec
Agreement was signed in 1975, the Crees have
moved into the 20th century at the speed of light.
A proud people, they are working to revitalize their
traditions and language, while providing community members with the benefits of modern life,
especiallyin the areas of health, education,
economicsand housing. Provisions of the
Agreement also give the Crees exclusive or shared
Learning how to scrape a hide
10
© Hydro-Québec
Water overflow structure
today! In 1674, preferring exploration to trade,
they left that company and returned once more
to France to create the North West Company,
in direct competition with the Hudson’s Bay
Company. The struggle for control of the fur trade
continued until 1713, when signature of the
Treaty of Utrecht ended hostilities between the
French and the English. The fur market grad
ually declined; only Natives now practice fur
trapping. As for the last of the trappers, they
became prospectors!
In fact, interest in the area was revived by the
riches in the bedrock of the Eeyou Istchee BaieJames territory. Road construction and railway
development after World War II made it possible
for the miningindustry to flourish. A dozen mines
went into operation in the 1950s, leading to the
founding of the towns of Chapais, Chibougamau
and, a littlelater, Matagami. The infrastructure
set up by the mining industry opened the way
to another natural resource: the boreal forest.
Spruce is used to produce excellent wood framing
and its pulp enhances the strength of certain
types of paper. Therefore, the 1960s were the
logging years. Here as well as elsewherein
Québec, many companieswere established and
their needs increased constantly.
The project of the century…
At the beginning of the 1970s, nearly all the
rivers near major urban centers had been

developed. With the rising demand for power,
it became urgent to develop new projects.
In 1971, the Québec Government announced
a mega-project: the harnessingof the rivers in
the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory. In 1972,
Hydro-Québec therefore began construction of
the La Grande complex, including the largest
underground power
house in the world, La
Grande-2, today renamed Robert-Bourassa
in honour of the proponentof the project, the
former premier.
11
In all, eight generating stations producing more
than half of Québec’s hydroelectric power,
went up during the two construction phases.
Three highways totalling over 1,700 km were
built: the Route de la Baie-James (MatagamiRadisson), the Route Transtaiga (RadissonCaniapiscau) and the Route du Nord
(Chibougamau-Radisson). Thousands of jobs
were created by Québec’s most ambitious
society-wide project to date!
Come to the Eeyou Istchee
Baie-James territory,
the destination of all adventures
The Crees use a syllabic writing system
developed by Methodist missionary James
Evans in the 1840s and made popular amongst
the Crees of Iiyiyuuschii in the last few decades
of the 19th century, when religious texts translated under the direction of the Rev. John
Horden, became widely available.
A few decades ago, syllabics were known and
used by almost all Cree adults. However, as a
result of residential schools and local education in English or French, their use declined for
youth and middle aged people. In the last
15 years there has been a resurgence of the
use of syllabics and school-age children and
many young adults are now able to read and
write. The Cree School Board places a great
emphasis on Cree literacy in its programs.
Most Crees feel that knowledge of syllabics is
an important part of being Cree and that Cree
literacy plays an important role in maintaining
and promoting the use of the language.
Syllabic © Pierre Lavigne
Traditional Snowshoe © Louise Abbott
Eeyou Istchee Baie-James, it’s everything
words can’t describe: the everlasting tundra
silence, the taiga stretching as far as the eye
can see, the boreal forest scent, the rampant
race of the big caribou herds, the northern
lights ballet in a crystal sky, a wildlife made to
survive the country’s tough conditions and
turbulent rivers.
Arid mountains offer a beautiful spot for hiking, small preys and fish call hunters and fans
of fishing while the immensity of the territory
opens itself to its discovery in quad and snowmobile. In short, this territory offers loads of
activities for adventurers!
Syllabic
12
?
Route Tr
CENTRALE
EASTMAIN-1-A
(
?
?
13
Aerial dam giant steps Robert – Bourassa generating facility © Neils K. Jensen
14
T
he Route de la Baie-James is a 620-km
long road that crosses the region
from south to north. It is the extension of Highway 109 and connects the
towns of Matagami and Radisson and also
the Cree communities of Waskaganish,
Eastmain, Wemindji and Chisasibi. Only the
community of Whapmagoostui, North of
Chisasibi is not accessible by road.
Grey jay © Neils K. Jensen
The Route de la Baie-James was initially built to enable machinery and workers to reach the major
jobsites of the hydroelectric projects, undertaken in the 1970s, overland. Construction began in
1971 and was completed in October 1974, which was remarkably quick, considering the scope
of the work to be done. In fact, the 420-mile length of the road was completed in record time of
420 days. The road, which is larger than usual, was designed with a load bearing capacity of up
to 500 metric tons. It goes without saying that the eleven bridges along the Route de la BaieJames are particularly sturdy.
A few stretches of road connecting the Route de la Baie-James to certain Hydro-Québec facilities
or Cree villages have also been built since its inauguration. The Cree communities of Waskaganish,
Eastmain, Wemindji and Chisasibi are now accessible by road.
Although there are no towns along the Route de la Baie-James, you will notice camps on the roadside. These are hunting and fishing camps occupied by the Crees of the neighbouring communities.
The camps are used mainly during the hunting seasons, although some are inhabited year round.
You will find a gas area at kilometer 381 from Matagami. A cafeteria, gas station and rooms
are available there.
Since the road crosses an isolated and remote territory, for their safety, travelers are asked to
registrer at the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government Tourist Office six kilometers north
of Matagami. There are also emergency phones available along the Route de la Baie-James for
safety reasons.
They say the journey is just as important as the destination. This long road leads to the northern
horizon, opening the way to a territory rich in culture, wildlife, vegetation and history. Interpretive
panels placed at strategic locations along the road will help you to discover it. Rest areas will
allow you to enjoy it. You will gain a better understanding of certain conditions that show the
incredible force and creativity of nature.
Take your time discovering the road; enjoy a unique, memorable trip.
15
Eeyou Istchee James-Bay Regional Government
819 739-2030
[email protected] / www.greibj-eijbrg.ca
Via routes 111, 109, 167, 113 and 393
Since January 1, 2014, Category III lands as defined in the James Bay and Northern Quebec
Agreement (JBNQA) are managed by the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government, which
is responsible for the administration of numerous services, including municipal services, regional
county municipality (MRC) services, and services provided by regional boards on natural resources
and land use, for an area covering more than 277,000 square kilometres. It is worth noting that
the council of the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government is made up of 11 Cree and
11 James Bay members who jointly manage this part of the region of Eeyou Istchee James Bay.
You can enter the region of Eeyou Istchee James Bay from Abitibi-Témiscamingue using Routes 109
and 113 and crossing the 49th parallel or by passing Kilometre post 187 in the Ashuapmushuan
reservation coming from Lac-Saint-Jean using Route 167. This immense northern territory, dotted
with far-flung cities and communities, is governed in accordance with the James Bay and Northern
Quebec Agreement, which calls for three categories of land use. Category I lands are reserved
exclusively for the use of Native people. Since January 2014, Category II lands are under the
responsibility of the new Cree Nation Government (CNG). In addition, Category III lands are now
managed by the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government.
The Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government is endeavouring to make your travel in the
region as pleasant and comfortable as possible to help ensure that you enjoy your stay. Rest stops,
launching ramps, docks, wading and camping sites, and the information office at Kilometre 6 are
all services and amenities designed for you. Get the most out of your stay in this magnificent
northern region!
The logo for the new regional government was created by two artists who took part in the logo design contest,
Stéfanie Thompson and Stéphanie Brousseau.
16
The Route de la Baie-James obviously starts at the entrance of the region Eeyou Istchee Baie-James,
by Highway 109, heading north.
RTE 109 – KM 118
Interpretation panel: “A Synthesis of Ore Bearing Structures”.
RTE 109 – KM 133
Lac Paradis © Christiane Caron
Interpretation panel: “What Gives the Emerald Water its Colour?”.
RTE 109 – KM 157: Cartwright Hills
Scenic lookout, picnic area, sanitary facilities and public phone, Interpretation panels:
“Memory of a glacier : the esker Matagami”.
“A trapline in the Abitibi beaver reserve”.
“Animals and Algonquins respected partners in life”.
RTE 109 – KM 224:
Matagami
Don’t forget to fuel up beforehand
because the next gas station is
381 km away!
Route de la Baie-James © Alain Larouche
KM 0: Your adventure
begins here!
Get your picture taken here.
17
Matagami
population 1534 819 739-2541
Via 109 Highway, Route de la Baie-James Km 0
Matagami is the western entrance of the Eeyou
Istchee Baie-James region. This town in a vast
territory obviously gives an important place in
outdoor activities. Within the city, it is possible
to navigate around 3.5 km of hiking trails located
in the forest providing access to an observation
tower, the rapids, a terrace, a wildlife diversity.
The resources are abundant, making Matagami
an ideal place for lovers of adventure. Nine major
rivers are accessible in a very close radius around
Matagami. The number of hours of sunshine in
the summer is higher than in areas farther south,
allowing full enjoyment of the golf course, tennis
courts, the campground and the beach. In winter,
snowmobiling became queen. The 40 km of
local trails converge toward the federated ones
and are available for several weeks because of
the length of our winters. The same is true for
trail-country skiing that will satisfy skiers even
the most experienced!
© Louise Abbott
Observation tower, Bell-Nature park © Ville de Matagami
pub.
p. 57
18
Falls © Ville de Matagami
Hunting and Fishing
Lovers of hunting and fishing can take advantage of unique sites where the game and fish are
plentiful. The nine rivers that surround Matagami provide sufficient space to enable everyone to
have a little piece of its own.
As Matagami is located near hunting areas 16, 17 and 22, you should pay attention to the rules.
Each area has its own merits, especially with regard to the dates of opening and closing. Lovers
of big game will enjoy themselves in that territory where the big taken are not uncommon. There
are moose, black bear and even caribou. Lovers of hunting small game are not forgotten either,
since they may hunt four species of partridges and hares.
Fishing will bring you certainly thrills. Walleye fishing is a great challenge. It is predominantly found
in lacs Matagami, Goéland and Olga. The experience of ice fishing is unique. Escaping a pike of
about fifteen pounds is a memory that you remember for a long time.
Matagami also represents the relay ideal for those who want to go further north, in the land of
the caribou.
History
Matagami, founded in 1963, owes its origin to mineral exploration. But the Matagami territory
was occupied long before the arrival of the European. Already in the 17th century, the Cree
in the region made the fur trade with the English of the Baie-James and the French of Abitibi
and Témiscamingue.
Like sturgeon and white fish abounded in Lac Waswanipi, commercial fishing began in the thirties. In 1962, several Cree families were installed in Matagami. Among the first to settle here,
we note the Kitchen and Otter. The Cree population continued to rise steadily until 1975, then
the cree people fled to the Waswanipi community.
19
KM 0.5
Interpretation panel: “Pioneers of a Leading Industry“
KM 2: Pont de la Rivière-Bell
The bridge is the longest on this highway. The Rivière Bell flows into Lac Matagami. The northern
point of the lake then becomes the Rivière Nottaway which flows up to Baie-James.
KM 6: Eeyou Istchee James
Bay Regional Government
tourist office
Mont Laurier © Tourisme Baie-James
We suggest that you register yourself for security purposes. You may
also obtain several interesting pieces
of information about the area from
our tourist officers. Memories, restrooms, picnic tables and public phone.
Interpretation panel: “One terri
tory… six seasons”.
Open 24 hours, all year long
819 739-4473.
KM 8
Interpretation panel: “Fens and
bogs: more than just Peatlands”.
KM 10: Mont Laurier
An interpretation panel is located on the highway’s northbound shoulder. This hill is 480 m high.
You may trek up to its top and enjoy a magnificent view of Matagami’s surroundings.
Interpretation panel: “Mont Laurier – A taste of northern environments”.
KM 37: Lac Matagami Campground (2 Km)
85 sites in total including 79 with sewage system, running water, fireplace (4 facing route) and
6 sandy sites dedicated to tents (with fireplace). All campers have access to restrooms, showers
and community pavillon. Features: boat-launching ramp, fishing, playground, picnic tables, parking,
cycling trail. Open from midsummer’s to Labour Day: 819 739-8383 or 819 739-2030 off season.
Interpretation panel: “Surface deposits and the nature of forest populations”.
KM 38: Rivière Waswanipi
Boat-launching ramp on the northbound shoulder of the highway. 10 km east from the bridge,
are the Red Falls, a spectacular sight!
KM 48: Rivière Waswanipi & Lac Olga (10 km)
You will find a rustic campground on the shore of Rivière Waswanipi (giving access to Lac Olga).
Picnic tables, sanitary facilities and boat-launching ramp.
KM 50
Interpretation panel: “Boosting forest rebirth”, on the northbound shoulder of the highway.
KM 80: Lac Ouescapis (2,5 km)
Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary facilities and boat-launching ramp.
20
KM 88
Interpretation panel: “Forestry activities”.
KM 106
Interpretation panel: “Close-up on mining exploration”.
KM 130
Interpretation panel: “Glacial deposits and forest roads”.
KM 135: Emergency phone
Rest area, picnic tables, sanitary facilities.
KM 161
Interpretation panel: “Boreal encounter”. Beware, it is on top of the hill on the west side of
the road.
KM 189: Lac Rodayer
Beaver © Ville de Magagami
KM 232: Rivière Broadback
Interpretation panel: “Baie James the contemporary heir of ice ages”, picnic area, sanitary
facilities, scenic lookout and pathway. Here a long time ago began the Tyrell Sea.
Interpretation panel: “Rythmites, varves and shells: remnants of glacier advance”.
Km 237: Access Road to Waskaganish (gravel)
Rest area, picnic tables, sanitary facilities. Waskaganish (in the past Rupert House) is 102 km west.
21
Waskaganish
population 2621 819 895-8650
[email protected] / www.waskaganish.ca
Waskaganish © Gaston Cooper for COTA
You don’t have to go far to get a little glimpse of the past in Waskaganish: a short stroll and
you’ll find yourself facing the majestic Rivière Rupert and right in front of the very first fur trading post in Canada. The community, whose original name was Fort Charles, was settled in the
region more than 330 years ago. It was shortly thereafter re-named Rupert’s House. In fact, this
community of 2621 residents owes its name to the fur trade, as Waskaganish is the Cree word
meaning “Little House”, the name used by the first inhabitants to describe the trading post
buildings. The preservation of the community’s rich history remains a priority. Proof of this is that
local historians at the Waskaganish Cultural Institute are d ocumenting the community’s past.
For those looking to combine adventure and culture you will be more than enthused by what
Waskaganish has to offer. The community is situated on the southeast corner of Baie James,
on the south shore of the Rivière Rupert where the Rivières Nottaway, Broadback, Rupert and
Pontax converge. Accompanied by an experienced guide, visitors can travel by freighter canoe
along the coast and to the islands.
Nature and photography enthusiasts will find an abundance of subjects as this is one of North
America’s premier areas for migratory birds. In 1995, a survey of the region counted a record
for the number of species observed in a single day in northern Canada.
The region is also renowned for its mainland waterways, most notably the legendary Rivière
Rupert. Considered a traditional “highway” to the mainland it is the site every year of a “canoe
brigade” where local elders guide Cree youth up the river teaching them about the land and
the traditional Cree way of life. The river is also the site of an important annual event, where
families gather at the Smoky Hill rapids on the Rivière Rupert to fish for seagoing whitefish
annual spawning.
22
Rivière Rupert © Gaston Cooper for COTA
KM 257: Rivière Rupert (1.2 KM)
Rustic campground, boat-launching ramp, picnic tables and sanitary facilities.
The powerful Rivière Rupert, one of Québec’s largest, flows from east to west, from Lac
Mistassini to Baie de Rupert in Baie James, over a distance of nearly 600 kilometres. The river
has several impressive rapids, including the one that can be admired from the bridge.
In 1668, Médard Chouart des Groseilliers, a Frenchman working for the British government,
made his way to the mouth of the Rivière Rupert to break the French monopoly on the fur trade.
He named the river in honour of Prince Rupert, the backer of the expedition. He also founded a
fort at the river mouth, which later became Rupert House, the original Hudson’s Bay Company
trading post, and is now the site of the Cree village of Waskaganish.
KM 257: Rivière Rupert Waterfall
Interpretation panel: “Lord paramount of the North”.
Picnic area, sanitary facilities, scenic lookout and pathway on the north shore of the river. It’s
the place to have a picnic!
Interpretation panel: “The Rupert: Over 3000 Years of History”.
23
Caribous © Guy Lavoie
KM 274: Passages (transitions) Rest Area and Route du Nord Intersection
Interpretation panel: “Fire-devastated forests”. Picnic area and sanitary facilities, site wading.
Lightning caused a forest fire here in 1983.
KM 294: Rivière Pontax III
The Pontax name is a transformation of the Indian name “Pontacks”, a Cree trapper family who
used to live in the area. Site wading.
KM 307: Rivière Pontax I
Forest fire caused by lightning in 1986. You will observe that the river’s numbers are not
consecutive. They have been given in accordance with their rate of flow. It is one of a few rivers
of the Baie-James basin to be excluded from the hydroelectric projects. Three rivers Pontax are
feed by Lac Champion. Site wading.
KM 312: Rivière Pontax II
Site wading.
KM 323: Lac Mirabelli (4 km)
Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary facilities and boat-launching ramp. In the past, this site
was used as a road construction camp.
KM 324: Rivière Jolicoeur
You may see a nice waterfall under the bridge.
KM 350: Access Road to Eastmain (gravel)
You are at 103 Km of Eastmain
24
Eastmain population 781 819 977-0211
[email protected] / www.eastmain.ca
Eastmain © Gaston Cooper for COTA
Goose dance
© Cree Nation of Eastmain
Eastmain still bears the historic name given
to the mainland of the eastern shores
of Baie James. In fact, the Hudson Bay
Company referred to the whole eastern
shores of Baie James and Baie-d’Hudson as
“East Main”. It was here, during the 1670’s
that the first ships from the Hudson’s Bay
Company dropped anchor to trade with the
community’s ancestors.
Today, Eastmain is a growing community of 781 residents nestled along the south shores of the
Rivière Eastmain. Its modest size allows visitors to bask in a truly traditional Cree environment
while having access to all the amenities of modern life. You will find lodging (a new hotel is
also scheduled for opening in the summer of 2014), a restaurant, two fully stocked grocery
stores, as well as a sporting goods store.
In the summer, visitors can bike or walk along the paths that meander through the surrounding
nature. During winter, abundant snowmobile trails replace these paths. The region is also
renowned for waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, and migratory flight paths that can be
observed or photographed from the islands and coastal marshlands. Visitors looking for real
adventure can explore the amazing challenging terrain of the Baie James coast accompanied
by an experienced Cree guide. Eastmain is a very friendly place, where people are generous,
kind and hospitable. A simple handshake and greeting is all that will suffice to make you feel
welcome to our communauty!
25
KM 381:
Rest stop-SDBJ
pub.
p. 59
Administered by the Société de
développement de la Baie-James.
Gas 24 h/24. Cafeteria 6 a.m. to
8 p.m. Motel accommodation
(new) 24 h/24, 819 638-8502.
Take note that two emergency
phone cabins are located there.
Pont de l’Eastmain © Tourisme Baie-James
KM 391
Interpretation panel: “Experimental reforestation techniques for an outstanding road”.
Interpretation panel: “An exceptional bridge for an exceptional road”.
KM 395: Rivière Eastmain (3 km)
Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary facilities and scenic lookout under the bridge. This
most impressive bridge of the 11 bridges along the Route de la Baie-James won a prize for its
architecture and engineering.
KM 411:
Rivière Opinaca
You may see a nice waterfall under the bridge.
Lightning caused a forest
fire in 1989. Rustic campground, picnic tables and
sanitary facilities.
KM 440:
String of Lakes
(chaîne de lacs)
(3 km)
Rustic campground, picnic
tables, sanitary facilities,
boat-launching ramp. In
the past time, this site was
a workers camp.
KM 464:
Rivière du Vieux Comptoir
Rivière Opinaca © Eeyou Istchee James-Bay Regional Government
Picnic tables, sanitary facilities and scenic lookout. You will discover one of the biggest culvert in
the world: 16 m wide by 80 m long. A big forest fire caused by lightning in 1989 went all the
way to Lac Yasinski.
26
KM 467:
Lac du Vieux Comptoir
Immensity © Mathieu Dupuis
Rustic campground, sanitary
facilities and picnic tables. An
astonishing site, especially at
sunset. You may then understand why people used to call
the area “painted hills”.
Interpretation panel: “Once
upon a time… the earth”.
Interpretation panel: “Cree
gathering place”.
Interpretation panel: A whaleback topography”.
KM 488
Interpretation panel: “The Northern trucker”.
KM 503: Lac Miron (1,5 km)
Picnic tables, sanitary facilities, boat-launching ramp and rustic campground. In the past, there
was a trappers camp and a workers camp. The lake was called at that time “The Crosswise
House Lake”.
KM 518: Rest Area and Access Road to Wemindji (gravel)
© Alain Larouche
Picnic tables and sanitary facilities. Wemindji is 96 km west.
Interpretation panel: “The hidden treasure of glacial deposits”.
27
Wemindji
population 1539 819 978-0264
www.wemindji.ca
Wemindji © Gaston Cooper for COTA
Situated in the heart of a breathtaking natural environment, Wemindji takes its name from
the Cree word meaning “Painted Hills” or “Ochre Mountains” which make up the colourful
backdrop of this community. In 1959, after its relocation from its original home on an island
in the Old Factory Bay, Wemindji turned into an energetic and thriving community of roughly
1539 residents. At the forefront of the economic development in the region, it is the home
of Creenet, the high-speed cable internet provider of the region, and it sells electricity that is
produced at the mini-hydro dam on the Maquata River to Hydro-Québec.
28
In Wemindji you will discover
a veritable 4-season destination. The islands as well as the
rugged coast of Baie James, in
addition to the rivers and lakes
of the region are absolutely
beautiful. You will find an abundance of fauna, from autumn
and spring migrating birds in
Baie James to belugas, caribou
and seals for as far as the eye
can see.
Wemindji is also a fishing paradise, as the region’s lakes and
rivers are full of northern pike,
walleye as well as big lake
trout. Visitors to the community
can also go canoeing, go on a
kayaking excursion or even do
some winter camping.
Culture and history buffs
will be able to participate in
the numerous festivities and
celebrations, such as our Wallye
Fishing Derby, Music Festival,
Bluebery Festival, Moose
Festival, Old Factory Visit (a
culture-filled week of traditional
events at a previous settlement location). These events are held annually or bi-annually, so
please consult our web page for more accurate information on exact dates. Visitors to the
region, much like locals, never get bored of a walk to the top of one of the nearby hills where
they can admire the magnificent view of the sun setting in the distance.
KM 542: Lac Yasinski
Picnic tables, sanitary facilities and scenic lookout. It is the location of one of the most important
spawning ground for walleye in Canada.
Interpretation panel: “Always on the watch!”.
Interpretation panel: “Resources of unimagined wealth”.
For a long time, this lake has been the LG-2 residents and workers favourite place to fish. However,
the construction of the road destroyed the main yellow walleye’s spawning bed, but it has been
redeveloped by installing a lagoon and protecting walls as breakwater.
KM 544: Route Transtaïga Intersection
This gravel road is 666 km long. There are emergency phones in each one of Hydro-Québec’s
settlements (LG-3, LG-4, LA-1 and Brisay). You are 358 km far from Mirage Adventure / Mirage
Outfitter (gas, lodging and restaurant).
KM 561: Rivière au Castor
Picnic tables and sanitary facilities.
KM 574: Lac Duncan (8 km)
KM 578
Interpretation panel: “Lands of Lichen”, on the northbound shoulder of the highway.
Information panel: “The Jack Pine”.
KM 582
Information panel: “A Cree moss winter Lodge”.
KM 589: La Grande-Rivière Airport
Gas, diesel, 100LL, Jet-A available. Open Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. After hours (charge) 819-638-9104
KM 600: Access Road to LG1 Hydroelectrical Power Plant and Chisasibi
LG1 is 62 km away and Chisasibi is 84 km away. About 10 km westwards of Chisasibi is Baie James.
Landscape © Mathieu Dupuis
KM 617: Access Road to Radisson
29
Radisson
population 343
?
819 638-7777
[email protected]
Via Route de la Baie-James Km 617
Radisson © Neils K. Jensen
The village of Radisson, perched on a hill at the very end of the Route de la Baie-James, is like
an oasis in the heart of the taiga. Founded in 1974 to accommodate workers who were here to
complete the “project of the century”, this is one of the rare non native community in Québec
north of the 53rd parallel. Over the years, the population of Radisson has fluctuated according
to the needs of the large construction sites in the area. After the work was completed, lovers
of the Great North stayed on, thus ensuring the survival of the young community. Located in
the heart of the La Grande hydroelectric complex, Radisson offers a full range of services and
warmly welcomes tourists, fishing groups, hunters and lovers of the great outdoors. See page 4
for the tourist offices.
pub
p. 64
Interpretation Center
(Free Open-house)
Complexe Pierre-Radisson, Radisson
819 638-8486 or toll free: 1 800 291-8486
www.hydroquebec.com/visit
Hydro-Québec is one of the largest electricity companies in North America. Hydro-Québec
produces, transports and distributes almost all the electricity used in Québec. 98% of its production comes from hydroelectric power stations, nearly half of which is produced by La Grande
complex. Hydro-Québec invites you at its Interpretation Center to complete the guided visits.This
permanent exhibition offers interesting perspectives on the natural and human environments
that make up the Baie-James territory. It is also an opportunity to increase your knowledge of
nature and the production and transportation of electricity. Schedule: open all year round.
Average length of a tour: 30 minutes. Admission: Free.
30
pub.
p. 64
Robert-Bourassa Generating Facility
(Free guided tour)
Departure: Pierre-Radisson Complex, Radisson
819 638-8486 or toll-free in Québec: 1 800 291-8486
Giant staircase © Hydro-Québec
Come admire our world-renown facilities! Hydro-Québec offers you free guided tours of two
memorable sites: the Robert-Bourassa development and the La Grande-1 generating station.
Before you see these huge facilities, relive the era of great builders with a visit to Robert-A.Boyd park in french (offered by the Société des sites historiques de Radisson) that pays tribute
to the 185,000 workers who built the La Grande Complex.
Hydro-Québec welcomes you to the largest underground generating station in the world,
Robert-Bourassa generating station (formerly known as La Grande-2). The visit begins with a
general presentation of the La Grande Complex. Then, climb aboard a bus for a 25-km ride to
discover the spillway, nicknamed “the giant’s staircase”, and the dam, as tall as a 53-storey
building! You’ll also descend 137 m underground to visit the generating station. Since it is being
refurbished, you might get a chance to see one of the enormous generating units up close!
The visit will make you feel proud of these impressive feats achieved right here in Québec!
Schedule: June 10 to August 31: Wednesday to Monday at 1 p.m., Tuesday at 2 p.m.; visit
in english by appointment only. Please reserve 48 hours in advance. Visitors must present
picture ID. Average length of a tour: approximately 4 hours. Admission: free.
pub.
p. 64
La Grande-1 Generating Station – run-of-river!
(Free guided tour)
Departure: Pierre-Radisson Complex, Radisson
819 638-8486 or toll-free in Québec: 1 800 291-8486
The Robert-Bourassa generating facility, get back on the road with us to the last generating
station on the Grande Rivière: La Grande-1. This run-of-river generating station is also home to
impressive plant and wildlife environments. It’s a magnificent example of human know-how that
is respectful of nature!
Schedule: June 10 to August 31: 8 a.m. daily except Tuesday (no visits); visit in english by
appointment only. Please reserve 48 hours in advance. Visitors must present picture ID. Average
length of a tour: approximately 4 hours. Admission: free.
31
Arts & Trésors inouïs
65, avenue Des Groseilliers, Radisson
819 638-6969
[email protected]
www.artinunat.com
© Michel Tournay
You do not want to miss visiting this
boutique which offers some of the
most beautiful examples of art objects,
jewelry, as well as Native and Inuit
artifacts. The boutique’s owners will
tell you about the history, origins and
legends associated with them. It is
the ideal place to purchase souvenirs
and feast your eyes on extraordinary
art and treasures. Schedule: every
day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m from SaintJean-Baptiste Day (June 24) to Labour
Day; closed Mondays from Labour Day
to June 24.
Tamarack geese © Gaston Cooper for COTA
Arts et trésors inouïs
32
Chisasibi population 4282 819 855-2878
www.chisasibi.org
Geese © Réal Lavigne
Situated on the south shore of Rivière La Grande you will find the modern community of
Chisasibi, whose name means “Great River” in Cree. Here the boreal forest merges with the
arctic tundra and the waters of Baie James mix with those of Baie-d’Hudson.
Thanks to a remarkable setting, Chisasibi offers visitors unforgettable adventures and activities.
Outfitters can take visitors by freighter canoe or bush plane to unimaginable places for fishing
and caribou hunting. Visitors that are more interested in the surrounding nature and breathtaking
landscape can travel up the coast accompanied by an experienced guide and discover the many
fascinating places to explore on foot, by canoe, on skis, on snowshoes or by snowmobile.
Cultural experiences are everywhere to be taken in. Every summer, nearby Fort George Island
is host to a week-long cultural festival known as Mamoweedow. Adventurer seeking to spend
a couple of nights in a traditional bush camp, will be delighted to know that local elders are
available to guide you and share their incredible stories and local legends and even teach you
a few survival skills. In addition to learning about Chisasibi’s stories and traditions, visitors will
be able to familiarize themselves with the various plants, berries as well as the unique fauna
that are all specific to the region.
Located at the very end of the Route de la Baie-James, Chisasibi is the last of the Cree communities
in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James that is accessible by road.
33
Whapmagoostui population 916 819 929-3384
www.whapmagoostuifn.ca
Whapmagoostui © Gaston Cooper for COTA
Whapmagoostui is the northern most Cree community – and the only one not accessible by road.
It is situated at the mouth of the Grande Rivière de la Baleine. As the only Cree community on
Baie-d’Hudson, Whapmagoostui is located on the arctic frontier. This location results is unmatched
surroundings as the beautiful marriage between the flora and fauna is not found anywhere in
Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. Visitors can spend time on windswept beaches, see scattered stands of
spruce trees and vast expanses of tundra, as well as picturesque lakes and rivers.
Whapmagoostui – which means “Place of the Beluga” in Cree – is home to about 916 Crees.
It is considered as a bi-cultural community adjacent to the Inuit village of Kuujjuarapik which
in itself is home to about 525 inhabitants. Up until the 1950’s, Whapmagoostui mostly served
as a summer encampment. During the winter months residents lived in smaller camps located
further inland. Although permanent installations have been established since 1955, the majority
of the residents still head towards their hunting camps in the spring to hunt geese and caribou.
Numerous visitors go to Manitounuk Sound, an archipelago just off the coast, for bird watching.
Visitors to the community will be able to participate in traditional summer gatherings, go whale
watching or, in the winter, do some exciting snowmobiling. Visitors will find accommodations,
restaurants, grocery stores, as well as camping equipment stores and equipment rental stores.
The Grande Rivière de la Baleine ends at Whapmagoostui, decreasing 45 meters in depth over
the last 30 kilometers before slowly flowing into Baie-d’Hudson. Lovers of river rapids will
discover an amazing place just as the beluga have – these great creatures gather near the
mouth of the river.
34
Route Transtaïga
B
© Alain Larouche
uilding the La Grande complex required
construction of an east-west road, the
Route Transtaïga, which has a total
length of about 700 kilometers (435 miles).
This gravel road starts a few dozen kilometers
south of the La Grande airport terminal and
leads to the facilities at La Grande-3 (130 kilometers), La Grande-4 (316 kilometers), Laforge-1
(491 kilometers), Laforge-2 (521 kilometers),
Brisay (598 kilometers) and, finally, the
Caniapiscau diversion structures (661 kilometers). The road also provides access to several
outfitters. Admire the landscapes of the taiga
and be observant—caribou, wolves, lynxes,
partridges, and foxes are watching you…
Make sure you fill up your gas tank, since you
won’t get another opportunity for 358 km.
Route Transtaïga
KM 56: Lac Sakami
Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary
facilities and boat-launching ramp.
KM 59: Lac Sakami Water
Overflow Structure
Picnic tables, sanitary facilities, fishing
and trail.
Rest Stop © MBJ
KM 62: Réservoir Robert-Bourassa
Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary
facilities, scenic lookout and boat-launching
ramp.
?
Route Transtaïga
gas
May to
October
DUPL
Route Transtaïga
35
Route Transtaïga
KM 100:
Access Road to LG-3
Hydroelectric power plant (30 km away)
and Hydro-Québec’s Sakami settlement
(not open to public) (24 km away). HQ’s
scenic lookout.
KM 203:
Rivière De Pontois
Rivière de la Corvette has been diverted
but the bridge kept its name.
KM 286: Lac Cladonia
Cargair Outfitter 1 800 371-2371, gas
and fuel available (open May to
October / Visa, MC and cash).
Réservoir de Caniapiscau © Le Québec en images
KM 292: LG-4 Airport
(Not open to public).
KM 307: Hydro-Québec Settlement LG-4 Access Road (1 km away).
Keyano Camp is at 1 Km away. (Not open to public).
KM 308
Hydro-Québec’s scenic lookout.
KM 311: Access Road to LG-4
Hydroelectric power plant (5 km away). (Not open to public).
KM 358: Mirage Adventure / Mirage Outfitter
1 866 339-6202 Open year round. Gasoline, fuel, accommodation, airstrips, hydrobase and
helipads. AvGaz and Jet-A available year round.
KM 395: Access Road to LA-1
Homes and the central 38 kilometers away (Not open to public). Hydro-Québec interpretation
scenic lookout.
KM 525: Access Road to LA-2
The Central LA-2 is located 6 km (Not open to public), Hydro-Québec interpretation scenic lookout.
KM 582: Brisay Power Plant and Hydro-Québec Housing
Hydro-Québec interpretation scenic lookout (Not open to public)
KM 666: Caniapiscau Outfitter
1 800 267-9797 This is the end of Route Transtaïga – Duplanter water overflow structure and
Réservoir de Caniapiscau. Caniapiscau Outfitter.
36
37
Aboriginal child © Neils K. Jensen
Route du Nord
T
he Route du Nord connects Chibou
gamau to the Route de la Baie-James
and to Radisson. Driving on it is an
adventure in itself. As you drive “up” north
along its 407 km of gravel, you will notice
significant geographical changes and may feel
rather disoriented. The bushes will vanish, the
forest will thin out and the trees will shrink.
The ground will become covered with lichen.
The mountains will?disappear. You will start to
feel smaller and smaller in a huge landscape.
A walk in the forest may make you feel very
tall; an interesting sensation produced by the
small size of the trees in the land of the Giants.
The Route du Nord was inaugurated in 1993. Built
mainly for the development of Hydro-Québec’s
Eastmain project, it is also used by local logging
companies for timber transport. This means that
you will be meeting huge semi-trailers transport
ing tons of spruce. The road is also used more
and more by tourists looking for new horizons,
and by hunters and anglers. In winter, it is pos
sible that you will encounter caribou.
Be prepared
Route Transtaïga
The Route du Nord is an isolated road with limited services where help is sometimes hard to get, so
being well prepared is essential.
Emergencies on the Route du Nord
There are no emergency phones along the road and cellular phones only get a signal in a few locations
along the first section. Only CBs or FM radios and satellite phones work. However, neither 911
or 310-4141 work on satellite phones; you have to call 418 549-5393 to reach the Sûreté du Québec
in Chicoutimi or 819 764-6604 in Rouyn-Noranda.
CENTRALE
EASTMAIN-1-A
(
?
The Route du Nord
38
Ptarmigan © Martin Isabelle
Route du Nord
Cellular phones on the Route du Nord
Cellular phones work almost everywhere up to Km 40. Further along, there are two higher spots
where most phones get a signal. Parking areas have been set up there to enable you to safely
leave your car to make a call (Km 72 and Km 86).
Driving
The vehicles you meet sometimes raise clouds of dust or snow that can hang in the air for nearly
a kilometer on a windless day. Keep to the right, especially as you near hills; slow down when
you meet another vehicle. Be very careful when passing. Make regular stops to stay alert—it will
give you time to appreciate the scenery.
What you should bring
Your vehicle has to be in perfect condition! You will need a full-size spare tire, the doughnut type
won’t last long on a gravel road. One is good; two is better. You should also have windshield
washer liquid, a basic toolkit, a first aid kit, food (there are no convenience stores), drinking water,
matches and a flashlight. In winter, add anti-freeze, a warm change of clothes and one or two
cans of Sterno to the list.
Refuelling the car… and its passengers
Between Chibougamau and Radisson, there are only three places to fill up. Check their business
hours! The Nemiscau substation (322 km from Chibougamau) is the site of the Cree Construction
Company’s fuel pumps. Open Monday to Saturday, from 7 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to
6:30 p.m. On Sunday, it is open from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
At the Cree village of Nemaska (344 km from Chibougamau), there is a gas station (819 673-2559),
open every day from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m., 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Debit cards,
Master Cards and Visa credit cards are a ccepted. The dining room of the inn in Nemaska is
open only at meal times (819 673-2615) (From 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and
5 p.m. to 8 p.m.) and closed Saturday and Sunday.
You can refuel at the Km 381 rest area (544 km from Chibougamau) (819 638-8502)
24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Food and accomodations are also available there.
Take advantage of the road. Stop often to admire the scenery all along your journey north.
39
Route du Nord
Chibougamau population 7656
?
418 748-2688
[email protected]
www.ville.chibougamau.qc.ca
Via 167 Highway
In a mountainous terrain, on the shorelines of Lac Gilman, as well as the vicinity of Lac aux
Dorés proudly stands the largest community in the Nord-du-Québec: Chibougamau, which name
means, “meeting place”. Chibougamau was visited as early as the 17th Century by many
merchants, explorers and trappers. Father Charles Albanel also crossed it to reach the Baied’Hudson in 1671. One of the numerous lakes to dot the region bears his name.
The first official exploration mining campaign on the territory
was conducted in 1870 by James Richardson. The discovery of
a gold-bearing quartz lode in 1903 by Peter McKenzie, a fur
trader, generated intermittent waves of intensive exploration of
the sector. However, the exploitation of the rich polymetallic
deposits (gold, copper and silver) definitely begun in 1955, with
the opening of the Campbell Mine, first founded as mining village in 1953, Chibougamau gained its status of municipal corporation in 1954. Although still considered a mining town, its
economy gradually diversified over the years and its population
slowly developped a strong sense of nordic identity. Today, the
forestry industry plays a role as important as the mining industry.
Chibougamau has become a center of services for the surrounding communities. Chibougamau is also known as a
paradise for fishermen and snowmobilers. Come and enjoy the many activities that occur near
Chibougamau: golf, swimming, helicopter tour, paraski, mini-golf and more! (See details in the
green section)
Contact us for professional services, complete documentation references as well as technical help
can be provided to assist you in the planning of your stay in Chibougamau and its surroundings.
For tourist information, contact Developpement Chibougamau 418 748-6060.
Outdoor activity © Ville de Chibougamau
Éloïse © TBJ
pub.
p. 54
40
Route du Nord
Geomorphologic Sites
Developpement Chibougamau
600, 3e Rue, Bureau 2, Chibougamau
418 748-6060
[email protected]
Witness of the passage of glaciers, those spectacular rock formations reveal the mystery of soil
formation, one of the oldest on the planet. Many interpretative panels are installed to mark out
time signature. The impact of cold water meeting hot lava has created volcanic rocks that are now
forming the basis of Parc Leblanc. At Parc Allard, the passage of glaciers has polished the land, in a
way you can observe blocks of stratified lava. You also will be able to see rock made of stromatolites.
Obalski Park
Whether walking, biking, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, you will appreciate the grand
beauty of the boreal forest all year round. A trek around the Lac Gilman, will make you discover
the secrets of the local flora and wildlife through the numerous interpretation panels doting the
paths. You may even bring along your fishing rod to tease the fish! Other paths will lead you to
mountain peaks offering panoramic views on Chibougamau, Lac aux Dorés and the vast Lac
Chibougamau. You will find belvederes, wharfs, benches, picnic tables and a cabin along your
way to enhance your trek. You can reach those paths from the public beach or by the Pavillon
Obalski Inmet where you easily may rent equipment to practice your favorite sports such as Alpine
skiing and Snowshoeing. Admission: Free.
Regional Historical Society of Chibougamau
646, 3e Rue, Chibougamau
418 748-3124
www.shrcnq.com
The Regional Historical Society of Chibougamau is a private archival service accredited by
Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec. The Society’s mission is to preserve and showcase
the historical heritage of Chibougamau and Nord-du-Québec, including Baie-James, Eeyou Istchee,
and Nunavik. Researchers are free to consult the Society’s archives and artefacts. The Society
features both a permanent exhibition and historical trail, which are free of charge. History books
are sold on site, including titles such as L’Appel du Chibougamau (“the call of the Chibougamau”)
and Histoire du Nord-du-Québec (“history of Northern Québec”). Schedule: Monday to Friday
from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
41
Route du Nord
Planétarium
418 748-2497 or 418 748-4642
Planetarium © Pierre Bureau
The Quasar Planetarium is truly unique. It is a
prototype, a local invention. Unique in Québec,
if not in the world. It will make you discover,
through special effects, the beautiful constellations in our Nordic sky. Located at the Municipal
Library, it may receive two to three adults or a
small family with animator. Average duration
of the visit: 30 to 60 minutes. The Club also
owns an observatory located on a peninsula of
Lac aux Dorés. A reservation is required for this
activity. Admission: Free.
Salle de quilles Bolorama (1991) inc.
160, avenue Lafontaine, Chibougamau
418 748-7286 or 1 877 420-5996
[email protected]
Since the founding of the town of Chibougamau, bowling has always been part of the activities
offered to its population. Of course, bowling alleys have evolved ever since and our establishment
now offers eight fluorescent synthetic alleys, Moonlight evenings with music, children’s birthday
parties, a reception room capacity for 50 individuals, pleasure and competition bowling leagues
for seniors or people physically disabled. Moreover, we help non-profit organizations with their
fundraising activities by adding up different friendly tournaments.
Highway 167 – Release Chibougamau
Kayak © Ville de Chibougamau
So, now that you have a full tank of gas, you are ready to leave town on Road 167, heading
north. That’s the road to take to reach Route du Nord. On your right, you can see Lac Gilman
with its beautiful beach; on the hill to your left is Chibougamau’s hospital. Don’t forget, if you
have a CB radio, tune in to channel 23 and regularly announce your presence on the road.
42
Route du Nord
Highway 167 – Pavillon Obalski Inmet
© B.Boone
Pavillon Obalski Inmet (outdoor activities center) is on your right, 4 km from Chibougamau. In
addition to ski and snowboard runs, it has a tube slide and provides access to a huge network of
cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. In summer, it is a favourite haunt of mountain biking
enthusiasts.
The road to the mines is just past the outdoor activity center. If you have five minutes, turn right
and drive for two kilometers. The view is worth the detour.
43
Route du Nord
Highway 167 – KM 242: Lac aux Dorés
As you cross the bridge, you will see a splendid beaver dam. Take a good look, there’s more
than one lodge and if you’re lucky, you may see the beavers hard at work. The Péninsule Gouin
separates the lake, which covers 40 km2, from its neighbour, Lac Chibougamau. Lac aux Dorés
is the source of the Rivière Chibougamau, which flows into the Rivière Nottaway. A member of
the team of prospectors traveling through the area in 1870, James Richardson, briefly described
the lake without naming it. In the early 20th century, Cree bands started to settle in the vicinity. In 1901, explorer Henry O’Sullivan wrote that the picturesque body of water, with its
gently sloping shoreline, was surrounded by high mountains to the north and east. A few years
later, several copper, silver and gold deposits were discovered. In 1914, a publication explained
that the lake had been named for the main species of fish it contained, yellow walleye or doré,
in French.
Highway 167 – KM 243: Chemin du Lac Chibougamau Nord
Turn right on the road to the northern part of Lac Chibougamau to reach outfitters “Camp de
pêche Pomerleau” (5 km). Lac Chibougamau is located a dozen kilometers southeast of the town
of the same name and 185 km northwest of Lac-Saint-Jean. The lake, which is 35 km long and
has an area of 206 km2, is the source of the Rivière Chibougamau and is sprinkled with islands;
it has many wide and deep bays, giving it an irregular shape. Explorer Henry O’Sullivan described
the gentle slope of its shoreline, interrupted in the north by mounts Sorcier, Paint and Cummings;
he noted, in 1895, that Lake Shabokoma had “a total length of 42 miles, which is surprisingly
large to have remained unknown to this day.” Lac Chibougamau lies immediately southeast of
Lac aux Dorés, from which it is almost entirely separated by Péninsule Gouin, but into which it
pours through a short winding passage. The presence of mineral resources, confirmed in 1870,
increased interest in the lake and the region. In 1871, surveyor Walter McOuat noted, “we have
never seen anything like the chloride schists of lakes Chibogomou and Wakinitchee (Waconichi).”
Joseph Obalski, a Québec mine inspector, was the first to use the current spelling for Lac
Chibougamau in 1907. The Hudson’s Bay Company moved its depot there from Lac Obatogamau
in 1914. The post closed in 1942.
44
Route du Nord
Highway 167 – KM 244: Mont Cummings
Here is an exceptional panorama giving you a foretaste of what to expect—you won’t be
disappointed. On Mont Cummings, there is a white-domed radar station. The lakeshore is dotted
with many cottages, several of which are inhabited year round. Past Lac Cummings (km 244),
the relief is gentler; 2 transmission lines, supplying electricity to the Cree village of Mistissini,
run along the roadside.
pub.
p. 59
Highway 167 – KM 252: Junction of Route du Nord:
Réserves fauniques Assinica et des Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-and-Waconichi
1584, route 167 Nord, Chibougamau, 418 748-7748, albanel@sepaq.com / www.sepaq.com
Sales and reservations at SEPAQ: 1 800 665-6527
Réserves fauniques Assinica et
des Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-etWaconichi have many choice
locations for trophy-seeking
anglers and lovers of the great
outdoors. On this sprawling
territory is Québec’s largest
natural freshwater lake, Lac
Mistassini, 176 km long by
40 km wide in certain places.
Breathe in the fresh lake air
and enjoy a memorable stay in
these wildlife reserves that the
word “space” cannot begin
to describe… In the past, on
this ancestral land, Aboriginal
people traded beaver furs for firearms and food. To ensure their protection and access to the
whole population, these vast spaces received a wildlife reserve status. They are also part of a
great beaver reserve which benefits the Cree Nation. Hunting and fishing of certain species of
fish, such as whitefish and sturgeon, is reserved to the Cree community. The reserves are run and
operated jointly by the Cree Nation of Mistissini and Sépaq, in conformity with the James Bay
and Northern Québec Agreement.
Highway 167 – KM 304 – Mistissini road (16 km including 12 km of gravel)
Highway 167 ends 100 km further north, at the Lac Albanel campground. Be careful, this last
section of the road is gravel.
45
© Les camps Kiskimaastakin
You enter Réserves fauniques Assinica et des Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-et-Waconichi’s territory. You
remain in this territory from this point to the exit of Réserve faunique Assinica, at Km 162 on
the Route du Nord. Less than 100 meters from this junction, on your left, is Rupert registration
centre, the main registration centre of the wildlife reserves in Nord-du-Québec’s area. If you plan
on staying in this territory for recreational purposes, registration is required.
Route du Nord
Mistissini
population 4543
418 923-3466
[email protected] / www.mistissini.ca
Mistissini, the Cree word for “Big Rock” takes its name
from the enormous rock that served as a point of reference for generations of Cree. The town is situated on
the south-east shores of Lac Mistassini – the largest
natural lake in the province of Québec, with its 160 km
in length and its 40 km in width in some places. Mistissini
is a modern community with a population in excess of
4543 residents.
Since the beginning of time, the Mistissini Cree have used
Lac Mistassini as a travel route to hunting, fishing and
trapping territories. Thanks to its existence, youth and
children learn about the way of life of their ancestors.
Mistissini is located in close proximity to the largest wildlife reserve in the province of Québec.
Mistissini, one of the largest of the nine Eeyou Istchee
communities, is home to many regional organizations
including: the Cree School Board, the James Bay Cree
Communications Society and the Cree Board of Health
and Social Services.
You will find everything you need in Mistissini, from restaurants to modern lodging—the Mistissini Lodge is a
4-star hotel with 20 rooms all offereing a view of the lake. You will also find stores, boutiques and
financial services. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the region and do some fishing, canoeing, or
simply, some photography to immortalize the spectacular views that the surrounding nature has to
offer. For those who are a little more adventurous, you will find charter services offering camping,
fishing or snowshoeing in an untamed environment.
Aerial view of Mistissini © Mistissini Tourism
Senior © Mathieu Dupuis
pub.
p. 58
46
Route du Nord
Lac Mistassini area © Mathieu Dupuis.
Snowmobile © Mathieu Dupuis
Highway 167 – KM 252:
Route du Nord (km 0)
Turn left to really experience the Route du Nord.
KM 4: Waconichi Cottages
The road on the right leads to the Lac Waconichi cottages, managed by the SÉPAQ.
KM 31: Baie Pénicouane
On the right, 8 km from the intersection, you will see Baie Pénicouane.
This magnificent site consists of a narrow bay with the look of a fjord; it is an extension of Lac
Mistassini. A guard will welcome you at the entrance. There is a campsite, a boat-launching ramp
with a dock.
KM 39: Réserve faunique Assinica
You are now entering the Réserve faunique Assinica. Its name comes from the Cree word Asinikaw,
meaning “full of rocks”.
KM 43: Fork ahoy!
Take a left toward Nemiscau substation (242 km).
47
Route du Nord
Porcupine © Gaston Cooper pour COTA
KM 62.6:
Rivière Brock
The river’s name was proposed by
geologist E. D. Kindle while he was
working in the area. In Old English,
brock means badger or more likely
wolverine, the now legendary predator from the same family.
KM 66:
Lac Samuel-Bédard
About a dozen kilometers long,
Lac Samuel-Bédard is the principal
source of the Rivière Brock Nord.
Samuel Bédard owned the farm in Péribonka where writer Louis Hémon spent the summer of 1912.
Bédard and his wife Laura may have been the inspirations for the father (Samuel) and mother of
the Chapdelaine family in famous novel, Maria Chapdelaine, which Louis Hémon completed in
Montréal the following spring.
KM 72: Cellular-phone Parking Area
KM 86: Cellular-phone Parking Area
KM 89: Beaver Logging Camp
Although forest workers only live there from May to September, there are almost always road
maintenance employees at the camp. Help is almost always available there in an emergency.
KM 98:
Lac Regneault
Stretching from southwest to northeast,
this lake is a little less than 20 km long.
It lies at the eastern extremity of the
Rivière Broadback’s drainage system, to
which it belongs. It is characterized by
the presence of eskers on its western
shoreline.
The Route du Nord © Mathieu Dupuis
KM 102:
Châtillon Logging Camp Road
48
If you are in trouble, you can get help
here; the camp is about 1 km down the
road.
From the main road, you can see short
sections of the old logging road along
which the Route du Nord was built.
Route du Nord
KM 108: Troïlus Mine Road (44 km)
It was an opencast gold mine that is now closed.
The view features several small lakes nestled in a huge valley, including Lacs Charbonneau
and Bugon.
For the last few kilometers, you have been able to see the transmission lines of the La Grande
complex. These 735,000-volt lines transmit the power produced by the generating stations at
Brisay, Laforge-1, La Grande-4 and part of the power from La Grande-3.
KM 129: Broadback Logging Camp
On your left is the access road to Chantiers Chibougamau’s Broadback logging camp, which is
50 km away.
KM 131: Rivière Broadback
If you stop near the bridge; you can see a small road leading to the riverbank, on the left. One
of the major rivers flowing into Baie James, the Broadback runs into it through Baie de Rupert,
in the heart of the Cree village of Waskaganish. It rises in Lac Frotet and winds westward for
451 km between the Rivière Rupert, to the north, and the Rivière Nottaway, to the South. The
Cree call the river Chistamiskau Sipi, meaning deep river.
KM 132: Chéniapiscau Rest area
It has picnic tables, sanitary facilities and a scenic lookout.
KM 162: End of the Réserve faunique Assinica
At this point, you have driven about 181 km from Chibougamau. If you have a provincial fishing
license, from this point on you can cast your line at any time.
KM 221: Lac Mesgouez
Full of islands and peninsulas that make it a
bit of a maze, Lac Mesgouez is a huge
widening of the Rivière Rupert, which flows
into Baie James through Baie de Rupert. The
lake, which is 50 km long, 4 km wide and
covers 132 km2, is located more than 100
km northwest of Lac Mistassini and about
30 km northeast of Lacs Villon and
Camousitchouane. It has a boat-launching
ramp and sanitary facilities.
KM 238:
Rivière Rupert Rest area
The bridge spans some rapids that are worth
a closer look! There are picnic tables, sanitary
facilities and a scenic lookout. Boardwalks
lead to fishing sites and the rapids. The Rivière
Rupert is fed by Lacs Mistassini and Albanel
and their tributaries. At the outlet of Lac
Mistassini, the river widens into a considerable
number of large lakes with many islands that
form a real maze.
49
Rivière Rupert © Gaston Cooper for COTA
Route du Nord
KM 241: Rivière Bras de Rupert
Take a look at the lovely valley of the Rivière Bras de Rupert.
KM 258: Albanel Substation
Turn left to reach Nemiscau substation and the Cree village of Nemaska. You are now 148 km
from the intersection of the Route du Nord with the Route de la Baie-James.
KM 286: Collines Lescar Rest area
Pont de la Rivière Rupert
© Alain Larouche
It has picnic tables, sanitary facilities and a scenic lookout with a
great view of the valley and Nemiscau substation.
KM 288: Hydro-Québec’s Nemiscau Transformer
Substation
KM 290: Gas Station
On your right is the Cree Construction Development Company’s gas
station. Open Monday to Saturday, from 7 a.m. to noon and from
1 to 6:30 p.m. On Sunday, it is open from 9 a.m. to noon and from
1 to 5 p.m.
KM 291: Access Road to Nemiscau Substation
This is also the road leading to the jobsite of the Eastmain-1 hydroelectric development project,
about 70 km away. (Not open to public)
KM 296: Access Road to the Village of Nemaska (10 km)
Fuel, accommodations and food are available there. You will be in Category II land once you have
driven 2 km past the intersection, which means that hunting and fishing are prohibited without a
pass from a Cree outfitter. In the village of Nemaska, there is a service station open every day
from from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m., 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
KM 298: Nemiscau Airport
50
Route du Nord
Nemaska
population 731 819 673-2512
www.nemaska.com
Nemaska © Gaston Cooper for COTA
Located right in the centre of Eeyou Istchee Baie-James, Nemaska is often referred to as the
“Heart of the Cree Nation”. In fact, from this community of 731 people you can travel easily
to the other communities of the region, although most prefer staying in the region to explore
the surrounding wilderness. The community of Nemaska, which means “Where fish abound”
is nestled on beautiful Lac Champion. It is a wonderful place to relax while taking in the natural
beauty of the surrounding territory.
Visitors who are a little more adventurous will be thrilled to know that the community can
supply all the services, material and information you need. Experienced hunters and trappers
can help visitors find the best spots for whatever activity they desire, from white-water kayaking
to wilderness camping or even sport fishing. Visitors can take a plane to one of the region’s
beautiful lakes for an exceptional backcountry adventure. During the winter, visitors can navigate
the many snowmobile trails that wind through the vast territory. During the summer months,
visitors to the community can partake in canoe expeditions as well as activities associated with
the yearly gathering at Old Nemaska, an official heritage site.
Nemaska is one of the smallest Cree communities of the region. After the Hudson’s Bay Company
closed their last trading post in 1970, the residents were dispersed into adjacent communities.
Seven years later, former residents resettled in what is now today’s modern village. Nemaska
is an important administrative hub and is home to the Grand Council of the Crees and Cree
Regional Authority head offices.
51
Caribous © Gaston Cooper for COTA
Route du Nord
KM 381 : Lac Boisrobert
Boat-launching ramp, rustic campground, sanitary facilities, picnic tables.
KM 407: End of the Route du Nord
Pontois © Tourisme Baie-James
You have now reached the road leading to the Route Transtaïga, Radisson and Chisasibi. The
intersection is at Km 274 of the Route de la Baie-James, which means that it lies 274 km
north of Matagami.
52
53
Ptarmigan © Martin Isabelle
The regional Obalski park
at the heart of the municipality
Ville de
Chibougamau
Living in Chibougamau
it’s choosing to take your time
54
55
www.ouje.ca
Tourisme
Oujé-BouGoumou
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
56
Visites culturelles
Hébergement traditionnel
Festivals
Artisanat
Repas traditionnels
Excursions et forfaits
Motoneige et VTT
Randonnée pédestre
Sentiers de raquette
Tourism
1 888 745-3905
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Cultural Visits
Traditional Lodging
Special Events
Arts & Crafts
Traditional Feasts
Excursions and Packages
Snowmobiling & ATV
Walking Trails
Snowshoe Trails
57
Tourism Guide.ai
1
14-02-18
13:19
C
M
Y
CM
Nation Crie de Mistissini
MY
CY
Cree Nation of Mistissini
CMY
K
Telephone : 418 923-3466 | info@mistissini
[email protected]
ca
58
www.mistissini.ca
www
mis
Michèle Perron
Directrice générale
596, 4e Rue
Chibougamau (Québec) G8P 1S3
(418) 748-7621 • www.csbj.qc.ca
Parce que l’élève est au cœur de notre avenir…
11-0146-CS_Baie_James_2012_FR.indd 1
11-12-02 07:48
WACONICHI
Photo : Steve Deschênes
FISHING AND ADVENTURE
30 MINUTES FROM CHIBOUGAMAU
Walleye | Northern pike | Lake trout | Speckled trout
STARTING AT
FISHING WITH STAY IN A CABIN
$
80
/day/pers.
quadruple occupancy
Weekdays during low season
Plus taxes
ReservesFauniques.com/AMW
1 800 665-6527
NATION CRIE
DE MISTISSINI
RECONNECT WITH
QUÉBEC’S NATURE
59
Setting on the peninsula of Lac Quévillon, Lebel-sur-Quévillon has remarquable assets allowing its visitors a chance
to live an urban experience in the very heart of nature! In the course of each season, let the natural beauty
of this territory surround you! Discover the numerous outdoor and leisure activities offered in this town. You’ll be
astounded by the immensity of the forest, the breathtaking landscapes and the warmth of its people.
Snowmobilers, fishermen and hunters, nature lovers or adventure seekers, Lebel-sur-Quévillon is the place to seek
for a northern experience where nature and adventure rime with freedom!
For more information call (819) 755-4826 ext. 212 or (819) 755-3363
www.lebel-sur-quevillon.com
<lxgH?‰¶rW
Relais Lac Caché Pétro-Canada
• Restaurant with a menu of 6 choices of the day : 5 am to 10 pm
• 22 rooms available with free wireless internet access
and complete bathroom
• Possibility of pension with meals (minimum of 3 consecutive days)
• Gas station with diesel available and convenience store
open from 5 am to 11 pm
• Situated at the intersection of roads 113 and 167
60
ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ
ᓄᓇᕕᒃ
Votre porte d’entrée
au Nunavik
Nunavik
Starts Here
ᐃᓂᓕᐅᕐᓃᑦ
RÉSERVATIONS
RESERVATIONS
1 800 361-2965
ᖃᖓᑦᑕᔫᓂᒃ ᐊᑦᑕᑐᐊᖃᕐᓂᖅ
VOLS NOLISÉS
CHARTERS
1 800 661-5850
61
piCtures : aanishChaaukaMikw, MitCh lenet et les CaMps kiskiMaastakin
Meet Crees and the 11 aboriginal
nations of QuébeC. explore
riCh and distinCt Cultures.
delve into anCient traditions.
learn about ConteMporary
aboriginal lifestyles.
62
a uniQue opportunity froM
QuébeC aboriginal tourisM.
www.aboriginalquebec.com
63
Tamarack geese © COTA
Spillway
Robert-Bourassa generating station is being
refurbished. You may get a chance to see part
of the huge generating unit up close!
64
Robert-A.-Boyd Park
Caribou
Northern lights
Robert-Bourassa generating station
La Grande-1 generating station
Guided tours
A REAL-LIFE SHOW
Venture into the heart of the taiga and discover the splendours of northern
landscapes and colossal hydroelectric facilities.
You will be blown away by the scale of the Robert-Bourassa development,
home to the biggest underground generating station in the world, a dam as tall as
a 53-storey building, and a giant spillway, nicknamed “the giant’s staircase”!
Travel to La Grande-1 generating station to see the work being done against
the backdrop of nature.
To visit Hydro-Québec’s facilities, call 1 800 291-8486 or go to hydroquebec.com/visit.
Aside from visiting the Robert-Bourassa generating facility and Robert-A.-Boyd park,
be sure to spend some time in Radisson. Located north of the 53rd parallel, it’s the
gateway to a unique northern adventure. You can practice various activities such as
fishing, snowmobiling, hunting and hiking. For information about camping services,
restaurants and accommodation in the region, call us at 819 638-7777 or send an e-mail
to [email protected].
WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU!
Localité de Radisson
65
Fishing is my passion,
the Festival du doré Baie-James, is my destination !
June 19th-28th, 2014
Chapais : 1-877-846-2020
[email protected]
www.festivaldudore.com
• Biggest ﬁshing tournament (15th edition)
• Family activities and shows for all
• More than $135 000 in prizes to be won
• Situated at Opemiska Lake, 10km from Chapais
• Free parking, info booth, sanitary block
• Concrete boat ramps
• Pedestrian trail linking to Opemiska Camping
• Bicycle path
Fishermen and professionals,
you are invited to come tease the Baie-James’ walleye!
www.mirageaventure.com
1 866-339-6202
66
...A great start to a great vacation !
REFUGE PAGEAU
CITÉ DE L’OR
Photos : Mathieu Dupuis et Hugo Lacroix
MUSÉE MINÉRALOGIQUE
ABITIBI-TEMISCAMINGUE-TOURISM.ORG
67
Tourisme Baie-James and Eeyou Istchee Tourism present the:
Gold Prize-winner
Tourism attractions
of less than 25 000 visitors
Aanischaaukamikw
Cree Cultural Institute
Gîte de la rivière
Tourism services
FaunENord
Festivals and Tourism events
of less than $ 300 000
Tourism employee
Festival Folifrets
Chibougamau Baie-James
Tourism supervisor
Accommodations
of less than 40 units
Maquatua Inn
Accommodations of 40 to 149 units
Motel du Lac
Gold sponsors
68
Accommodation Holiday Cottage
Gilbert Baribeau
Patrick Forward
Tourism Personality
Marie-Christine Mailhiot
Events
CULTURE
NATURE
Hunting
and Fishing
Food
services
Accommodation
Our network of tourist
information centres offers you
✓
■
✓
■
✓
■
✓
■
A collection of 20 official Quebec tourist guides
Suggested itineraries
Full details on attractions, events and accommodation
Everything you need to plan your stay!
Consult the list of our information centres
on page 4, or look for these roadside signs:
69
70
Seaplane © Air Saguenay
Highway 113
M
any travellers are thankful for the
existence of Highway 113. Before
it was built in 1967, mine and
? to make a
forest workers from Abitibi had
major detour to reach the mines and logging
camps of the Chibougamau-Chapais area.
Can you imagine? From Val-d’Or, they had to
drive down to Montréal, over to Trois-Rivières
and up past Lac Saint-Jean to finally reach the
Chibougamau-Chapais area, a 1200 km expedition! Today, on Highway 113, the trip from
Abitibi to Chibougamau takes less than
4 hours.
Route Transtaïga
© Louise Abbott
CENTRALE
EASTMAIN-1-A
The junction of Highway 167 and the northern end of Highway 113 is about 10 kilometres
south of Chibougamau. The trip from Chibougamau to Matagami will take you past the Cree
community of Oujé-Bougoumou (about 30 km from Highway 113), the town of Chapais, the
Cree community of Waswanipi, the villages of Miquelon and Desmaraisville and the town of
Lebel-sur-Quévillon. From that point, a 90-km drive on a recently renovated logging Road,
R-1005, leads to Matagami and the Route de la Baie-James. Take care, just like on the Route
du Nord, you will probably meet huge semi-trailers on the way.
SAGUEN
(
?
Highway 113
?
71
Highway 113
Ouje-Bougoumou
population 750 pub. 418 745-3905
p. 56 [email protected] / www.ouje.ca
Oujé-Bougoumou © Gaston Cooper for COTA
Ouje-Bougoumou is a relatively new community as construction of the village was only completed
in 1994. However, it is a community with a long history. Over a period of 50 years, residents were
forced to relocate 7 times to make place for mining activities. Nowadays, Ouje-Bougoumou, which
means “The Place Where People Gather” in Cree, welcomes visitors from the four corners of
the world.
On the 50th anniversary of the United Nations in 1995, this community of 750 residents received
a United Nations’ award for excellence given to the top 50 communities around the world that
best displayed the UN’s values and objectives.
Located on Lac Opémiska, Ouje-Bougoumou was designed and built in accordance with the Cree
vision of living in harmony with their environment and culture. This philosophy is apparent
throughout the village, from the innovative architecture designed by the reputed Canadian architect
Douglas Cardinal, to the central heating system that converts sawdust from the local sawmill into
energy. The community is also home to the Cree Cultural Institute, also called Aanischaaukamikw.
This institute houses the Cree Nation’s cultural and archaeological heritage and be the site of
numerous innovative and stimulating cultural activities. Aanischaaukamikw is above all a center
that incorporate Cree cultural and language programs aimed at members of the Cree community.
72
Visitors who are enticed by Cree history and culture can spend time in the cultural village where
they will experience a traditional feast as well as learn about the art of local artisans. For
adventure seekers, the opportunity to accompany a Cree hunter and his family is a wonderful
way to learn about the
Cree way of life. Visitors
can even fashion their
own pair of moccasins
or snowshoes. Photo
graphers and nature
lovers can surround
themselves with the
breathtaking northern
scenery. Visitors can
also practice catch and
release fishing on the
local lakes and rivers.
The community is in the
planning stages for
construction of a future
Eco-Tourist Resort that
will allow visitors to
e xamine alternative
ways to visit and learn
about the region.
73
Ouje-Bougoumou © Mathieu Dupuis
Interior of Cree Cultural Institute – Aanischaaukamikw © Neils K. Jensen
Highway 113
Highway 113
Chapais
population 1659 418 745-2511
[email protected] / www.villedechapais.com
Relaxing © Ville de Chapais
Children at the park © Ville de Chapais
Located along provincial Highway 113, which links the regions of Abitibi-Témiscamingue and
Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, the Ville de Chapais is one of the main gateways into Nord-du-Québec.
The city’s history goes back to 1929, when prospector Léo Springer found rich copper, silver
and gold deposits in the area. The city was constituted in 1955 under the Québec Mining
Act. Opemiska Copper Mines, the main employer at
the time, was responsible for providing services and
operating the municipality. Originally a mining town,
Chapais diversified its economic activities with the
launch of a sawmill in 1974. Today, Barrette-Chapais
Ltd is among Canada’s most productive forestry companies. It employs over 500 people and has enabled
the city to survive the partial exodus that occurred in
1991 when the mine closed. Determined to ensure
their community’s development, the people of Chapais
have optimized the use of forest biomass by launching
the first cogeneration plant in Quebec. This system
produces electricity from sawmill residues – an ecological power-generation alternative. In recent years,
city residents have become increasingly involved in the
development of tourism attractions, which contribute
to the region’s economic recovery and diversification.
Surrounded by a vast, untainted, and energy-rich natural
environment, Chapais is an outstanding leisure and
vacation setting that is sure to thrill outdoor enthusiasts
year round. Summer offers tremendous sportsfishing,
aquatic activities, swimming, hiking, biking, and fourwheel adventure opportunities. In winter, snowmobiling
(off-trail or on federated trails), ice fishing, cross-country
skiing, and snowshoeing come to the fore.
Western gateway into the city
Native cemetery
Native cemetery © Rock Arsenault
At the western gateway into the city, there is a Cree
cemetery. Located in a forest of pine trees, the cemetery
was designed in accordance with Cree Nation traditions.
Nearby, located in the Catholic cemetery, there is a
memorial in honour of the 48 victims of the 1980 New
Year’s fire. The monument is lit up at night, in tribute to
the memory of the victims. A few metres from the site,
a commemorative park was also created to mark this
tragic event.
74
Highway 113
Parc de la Chute
Parc de la Chute is a location that is much-appreciated by tourists and residents. This green space,
which features a body of water, man-made falls,
and rest areas, is ideal for relaxation and renewal.
Every summer, the stream is enriched, and the
community organizes a day of fishing. Given its
location at the foot of the former mine, Parc de la
Chute bears witness to Chapais’s mining history.
Indeed, a memorial in honour of Léo Springer, the
prospector whose work led to the city’s founding,
is located nearby.
Bike path
Relaxing © Ville de Chapais
Cycling enthusiasts love the 11-kilometre bike
path located in the heart of the boreal forest. The
rock-dust track links the city of Chapais and Lac
Opémiska. It follows a sinuous forest path through
moss and lichen, a former mining site, and several
streams that are a typical trait of the region. In winter, the bike path turns into a cross-country ski trail.
Eastern gateway into the city
Paths at Lac Campbell
and Mont Springer
Adventure trail © Ville de Chapais
Walking Placer © Ville de Chapais
Whether you like to go exploring or simply go
for a hike, you will be dazzled by our network
of forest paths, showcasing the region’s flora
and animal habitats. There are 2 circuits, totalling nearly 12 kilometres in length; they feature
interpretive signs, viewpoints, and picnic tables
and benches. The first circuit is accessible to
all visitors; it goes around Lac Campbell and
features several scenic lookouts. The second
circuit, which leads up Mont Springer, is more
physically demanding. When they arrive at the
peak, hikers are rewarded with a magnificent
panoramic view of the region. In winter, come
and discover these paths on your snowshoes!
Adventure trail
Located at the start of the Lac Campbell hiking path,
there is a fun adventure trail that is sure to please
the whole family! Come climb over, crawl under,
and walk in balance on structures made of natural
wood in the heart of the boreal forest.
75
Highway 113
Waswanipi
population 2080 819 753-2587
[email protected] / www.waswanipi.com
© Escapade Boréale
Waswanipi is the southernmost of the Cree communities and is the gateway to the Eeyou Istchee
Baie-James mainland. The name Waswanipi is Cree for “Light over the Water” referring to the
traditional methods used by residents for night-time fishing on rivers and the luring of fish to
the lantern light or to the torches used.
Nowadays, the modern community of Waswanipi organizes events and festivals throughout the
year. These include a celebration of the community “Waswanipi Day” in June as well as the
annual gathering at the site of the old community in July. In addition, outfitters offer fishing
expeditions beyond compare as well as year-round outdoor adventures. The region is surrounded
by hiking trails and cross-country skiing trails in the winter. You can also find bush camping
sites, crystal clear lakes and numerous rivers that will please even the most enthusiastic canoe
users and kayakers.
While Waswanipi residents still partake in traditional activities such as hunting, fishing and
trapping, a flourishing art and handicraft industry has since developed. Souvenir hunters and
collectors will be able to purchase decorative shoes, mittens and snowshoes.
76
Highway 113
Miquelon and Desmaraisville
© Patrick Compartino
The hamlet of Miquelon lies along the shores of the Rivière O’Sullivan linking Lacs Waswanipi
and Pusticamica, at the junction of the road leading to Chibougamau. Algonquin Natives called
this place Pakitamakak – above the mountain –. The name Miquelon was given to the hamlet
in honourof Jacques Miquelon, Québec minister of Lands and Forests in 1960. You will want
to admire the waterfall that flows under the old railroad. Some 25 km north of Miquelon, you
cross the small mining township of Desmaraisville. This agglomeration was established on the
fringes of the Canadian National Railroad linking Abitibi and Lac-St-Jean, via Chibougamau. The
name, initially given to the post office of the village, was attributed to the hamlet in honour of
Mgr. Aldée Desmarais, former bishop of the Amos diocese.
77
Highway 113
population 2 735
?
819 755-4826
[email protected]
www.lebel-sur-quevillon.com
pub.
p. 60
Nestled in the south part of the territory, on the shores of beautiful Lac Quévillon, lies Lebelsur‑Quévillon. The lake’s name is linked to Louis-Amable Quévillon, a master carpenter/architect
who decorated many churches in Québec. The first part of the town’s name comes from
Jean‑Baptiste Lebel, from Clova who, in 1948, opened the first sawmill in Rapide-des-Cèdres,
10 km from the current location of the city. In busiest times, the mill employed up to 1,200 people.
In the beginning of the sixties, Domtar was looking for a location to set up a kraft pulp and paper
mill. The richness of resources and quality of the black spruce tipped the scales in favour of this
region. A town was born, providing services and a good quality of life to many workers living in
Lebel-sur-Quévillon. The high zinc, copper, silver and gold content in its soil enabled Lebel to
diversify its economy, which up to then consisted mostly of forestry. Lebel-sur-Quévillon is a place
of surprises known as much for its hunting and fishing as it is for hiking trail including along the
majestic Lac Quévillon.
Whether it’s to relax, enjoy the quietness, a beautiful sunset or a star lit night, Lebel-sur-Quévillon
is the perfect place for lovers of wide open spaces.
Lebel-sur-Quévillon Beach and Marina
910, boulevard Quévillon
819 755-4826 © Réal Lavigne
Located less than a kilometer from downtown Lebel-sur-Quévillon, a huge beach with fine
golden sand is a favourite to swimmers and other aquatic-sport lovers. Safety is a primary concern
for all activities: pedal-boating, canoeing, or kayaking; rentals available on site. Visitor lodge and
volleyball are also available on site.
78
79
Nothern Lights © Jimmy Sam
Nothern Lights © Claude Girard
Vallée de la Turgeon
First gateway to Baie-James
© Localité de Villebois
J
ust 25 km North of La Sarre, at the 49th
parallel, we find the Vallée de la Turgeon
which is wedged between the Abitibi
hills to the west and the Collines Fenouillet to
the east. In the past occupied by the Algonquin
people and covered with virgin forests, this territory was colonized and cleared by Europeans
who were fleeing the chronic unemployment
associated with the economic crash of 1929.
Since no roads had been built, the first men
arrived by barge on the Rivière Turgeon in 1935.
Through time, 3 parishes were founded, that is
to say St-Joachim-de-Beaucanton and St-Camille-de-Villebois in 1935, as well as St-Éphremde-Val-Paradis in 1942. Today, the Vallée de la Turgeon has become a tourist attraction that
is characterized by its relics from the colonisation periodand its natural wonders which allows
the practice of many outdoor activities all year round.
80
Val Paradis
pop. 271
–
Villebois
pop. 244 –
Beaucanton
pop. 231
Val Paradis, Villebois and Beaucanton
819 941-2034, [email protected]
Via routes 111, 393 and N-810 (Route des Conquérants)
Cultural tourist attractions
Replica of La Rosanna © Localité de Villebois
The Vallée de la Turgeon is proud to count, still today, 5 covered bridges within its territory. These
bridges are of the architectural style known as “Town Québécois”, because it is a style of bridge
which is found exclusively in Québec. Among these bridges we find the only pony style bridge in
Canada. A covered bridge with no roof! A must see, and along the way we invite you to read the
interpretative signs installed near each bridge.
The Vallée de la Turgeon is blessed with two patrimonial churches. The one in Beaucanton, a church
made of field-stones and in the “Dom Bellot” architectural style was built between 1940 and 1948.
The one in Villebois, the church St-Camille was built in 1949 and where you will find a chapel
dedicatedto St-Benoit-Labre, unique in Québec. In Villebois, we also find a replica of the barge
“Rosanna“ which was used by the first Europeans to navigate on the Rivière Turgeon. There is also
“La Porte de la Baie James“ a monument which commemorates the first winter road giving access
to the Baie-James area. Built in 1967 it was constructed under the direction of the “Ordre des
Conquérants“. Today the N-810 road north of the village follows this historic undertaking.
Natural tourist attractions
In addition to the many boat ramps that give access to our many aquatic environments, we find
two places where it is possible to enjoy nature along maintained trails. To the east of Villebois,
within the Collines Fenouillet, there are several trails (30 km) which give access to ancient caves
and panoramic views of the Valley. Certain trails can be used by mountain bikes and also horses,
especially during the yearly Labour Day weekend James Bay Horse Festival.
In the west, within the Collines Abitibi, we find the Lac Imbeau area where it is possible, along
the interpretative trail “Le Feu réplique (Fire retorts)“, (3.5 km) to learn the various important roles
that fires play in the boreal forest. Also, along the path “Le Roc raconte (The rock counts)“ (3 km)
you can, by observing relics of last the glaciation (ancient beaches, erraticblocks) learn about the
geological and human history of the Valley. Also, in this area there is a canoe-camping circuit, as
well as several group campsites and a picnic area that are accessible by ATV.
81
Kayak and Coverd Bridge © CDEVVB
Pont couvert des Pionniers © Tourisme Baie-James
Finally, a new audio-interpretative water circuit has recently been installed along the Lac Imbeau
shoreline. In order to enjoy this unique audio experience, Mp3 players with the audio track, canoes
and kayaks can be rented at the Lac Pajegasque campground.
Finally, the territory is furrowed by many snowmobileand VTT trails, which give access to the
attractions of the Valley as well as north-eastern Ontario and Nord-du-Québec. Come enjoy our
many trails, with our natural and cultural wonders, we guarantee you will come again and again!
82
© Louise Abbott
83
Events
You are invited to explore Eeyou Istchee Baie-James while participating in events!
Western Festival
of Lebel-sur-Quévillon
Lebel-sur-Quévillon, 819 755-2525
The Lebel-sur-Quévillon equestrian club hold the 35th
edition of its Western Festival beginning of June.
Western saddle Gymkhana competitions and an English
saddle horse-jumping contest will be held during the
3-day event. Attractions also include a dance evening,
Quévillon artist stands, the canteen, inflatables, clowns
and face-painting for kids, horse-riding excursions, and
tours of our stables and equestrian path. Between $5,000
and $10,000 in prizes and awards to be won.
June 19 to 28
James Bay Walleye Festival
Fishing is my passion and
the James Bay Walleye Festival
is my destination!
The largest fishing tournament is now in its 15th edition. The program includes family activities and shows
for spectators of all ages. Over $135,000 in prizes and
grants to be won. The site is located at Lac Opémiska,
10 kilometres from Chapais, and offers extensive free
parking, concrete launching ramps, a reception office, a
comfort station, a hiking path to the Opémiska camping
site, and a bike path. Amateur and professional anglers
are invited to come test their skills on James Bay walleye!
June 21
James Bay Walleye Festival
© Festival du doré Baie-James
Chapais, 1 877 846-2020
[email protected] / www.festivaldudore.com
Aboriginal Day
Chibougamau, 418 748-7667
[email protected]
This event is both cultural celebration and bridge to
intercultural understanding. The day begins with a walking out ceremony where young children take their first
official steps into the community. This is followed
throughout the day by games and demonstrations of
talent, crafts demonstrations and workshops as well as
a makoushan – feast, where all are welcome. Join us!
June 23
Festivities
for St-Jean-Baptiste Day
Whether to assist to the traditional parade and the
bonfire or to participate in a friendly soft ball tournament,
we invite you to celebrate and let the presentation of our
mega fireworks fill your heart with joy.
84
Information up to date as of fall 2013. Please call to confirm before making a long trip.
Aboriginal Walking Out Day
© Gaston Cooper for COTA
pub.
p. 66
Western Festival of Lebel-sur-Quévillon
© Club équestre de Lebel-sur-Quévillon
Beginning of June
Events
July 31 to August 3
Festival en août
Chibougamau, 418 748-2688, poste 2243
[email protected]
Festival en août © Festival en août
This great cultural summer event is the
largest in the Nord-du-Québec. Taking place
in the heart of the town, on an outdoor
scene, this popular festival attracts more
than 5000 people on a daily basis during
its 4 days of celebrations. More than
50 artists from Nord-du-Québec are here to
give great performances as well as
professional groups. Many activities such
as our special family day, spectacular
fireworks, a senior’s day, a beach volleyball
tournament, a triathlon, an art exhibition
and many more are presented to the public.
So come and enjoy yourself!
August 1 to 3
Festival nautique
[email protected]
Festival en août site © Festival en août
Festival held at the municipal beach.
Various beach activities, including a volleyball tournament and horseshoe tournament as well as various categories of
water racing. Dance evenings on Friday
and Saturday.
August 8 to 10
Waswanipi Old Post
Fishing Derby
Waswanipi, 819 753-7208
www.waswanipiderby.com
This is a sport-fishing competition (Wallye
& Northern Pike) that draws nearly
400 competitors from in and outside the
region. Prizes total more than $100 000.
August 29 to September 1
Festival du cheval de la Baie-James
Villebois, 819 333-4727/ 819 333-9202
Festival du cheval de la Baie-James
© Mont Fenouillet à cheval
In the enchanting surroundings of Mont Fenouillet
near Villebois, come and enjoy a variety of
equestrian activities organized in this 12th edition
of the Festival du cheval de la Baie-James. Horse
enthusiasts come together for beautiful rides,
lunches in the forest and friendly competitions in the
ring. Carriage rides are also offered on site. There
is a bar on site as well as restaurants that serve
traditional cuisine with music and entertainment
during the evenings; in addition, you’ll find 80 rustic
camping sites with water for the horses.
The horse owner lovers will be able to ride the
trails at all times, as long as they obtain the Mount
Fenouillet membership card. Open from May to
October. Welcome to all.
85
Events
January 24
Super Rallye minounes
Chibougamau, 418 748-3065 or 418 770-7890
www.motoneigechibougamau.ca
January 28 to February 1
Tournoi Hockey mineur de Chibougamau
Chibougamau, [email protected]
The Tournoi hockey mineur de Chibougamau is coming
to its 39th edition and provides to numerous players of
the region, the opportunity to play in a major tournament
in front of parents and friends. From January 28 to
February 4 2015, 300 volunteers and 400 players
will put their efforts together for the success of this
tournament. Here is an opportunity to bring together
diverse communities from the region.
February 14
Défi polaire des minounes
Chapais, 418 770-7372
[email protected]
www.clubmotoneige.com
Défi polaire des minounes
This 60 km snowmobile ride crosses through woods over
a surfaced trail off the organized trails. The participation
of antique snowmobiles is emphasized, not speed or
performance. Everything takes place in a pleasant family
atmosphere. The winners of the race are determined by card
draw (Poker) and participants can win over $5,000 in prizes.
Raid boréal © Escapade boréale
February
The Boreal Raid
418 770-8351
[email protected]
www.escapadeboreale.com
The “Raid” covers nearly 1,000 km. A support team
ensures safety throughout the event. Over $10,000 in
prizes to be won. The ultimate objective is to cross the
region along Route 113 between Lebel-sur-Quévillon and
Chibougamau. It is not a race. The goal is to complete
as many stages as possible in a limited time frame to
increase your chances of winning. Mutual aid, cooperation, and communication among the “raiders” is encouraged and always present. The goal is not to arrive first
but to arrive on time!
Beginning of March
Beaucanton Winter Carnival
Valcanton, 819 941-2101
Snowmobile rally, crowning of queen, various games,
music, other activites. There will be many surprises.
Beginning of March
Festival Folifrets Chibougamau Baie-James
© Festival Folifrets Chibougamau Baie-James
Festival Folifrets
Chibougamau Baie-James
[email protected]
www.festivalfolifrets.com
Nine days of winter celebrations where dancing,
performances, animations as well as the duchess
crowning take place. Without forgetting “La Randonnée
du Président”, the biggest antique snowmobile hike in
North America where ATV fans can participate. A Cross
Country race of 320 km for pros and 180 km for fans
is also planned.
86
Events
March 30 to April 5
The Great Wind Trail
418 770-8351
[email protected] / www.escapadeboreale.com
adventure, bliss, and new friends. The Great Wind Trail is
not only a one-of-a-kind kitesurfing event – above all, it’s
an unforgettable personal experience.
La Route des vents © Paraski Boréal
Lac Waconichi, a biodiversity reserve, welcome you. With
its log cabins and large wood-heated common room, this
enchantingly secluded getaway awaits you for a week of
Beginning of April
Tournoi Invitation Barrette
Chapais, 418 745-2294
[email protected]
www.curlingopemiska.com
The fourth edition of the Tournoi Invitation Barrette will be
held at the Chapais Curling Club. This tournament attracts
more than 130 curlers from all regions of Québec. More
than $7,000 to win in awards and prices. Whether you
are a curler or a spectator, come and enjoy the Tournoi
Invitation Barrette.
April 17 to 19
Interregional Bowling Tournament
Invitation
Chibougamau, 1 877 420-5996 / 418 748-7286
[email protected]
This high calibre competition takes place in the Salle
de quilles Bolorama in Chibougamau and attracts more
than 300 people from everywhere in Québec. Men and
women from different regions of Québec will compete to
win bursaries reaching up to $30,000 in prizes. The great
champions of pins in Québec come to measure their talents
with our people of Chibougamau. Come to see these
candidates at work, you won’t regret your move.
2013 Bowling Tournament
Winner Mr Jacquelin Brisson, Ste-Monique
Salle de quilles Bolorama
87
Cultural tours
Villebois-Valcanton
covered bridges
Pont couvert 1948 Maurice Duplessis-1740
Corporation de développement
économique de Villebois-Valcanton
819 941-2180
[email protected]
Yesterday our meeting places and sites for posting notices,
they are today a part of our heritage. Built with local
materials in the traditional Town style, the MauriceDuplessis (1948), Taschereau (1943) and des Souvenirs
(1954) bridges all span the Rivière Turgeon. The Pionniers
(1943) bridge crosses Leslie Brook. Magnificently
preserved, the bridges of Villebois-Valcanton are still in
excellent condition and can be crossed in a car, on bike
or by foot. Their wooden structures are engraved with
love messages written by young couples seeking a place
to hide from indiscrete onlookers.
Pont Taschereau © CDEVVB
Guided visits
pub.
p. 64
Table touristique de la Vallée
de la Turgeon
L’audio-circuit de la Vallée
de la Turgeon
2709 boul. Mc Duff, local B, Beaucanton
819 941-2034
[email protected] and cdevvbj2@@tlb.sympatico.ca
819 941-2180 or 819 941-2034
[email protected]
Hydro-Québec
Complexe Pierre-Radisson, Radisson
1 800 291-8486
Free guided tours of the power stations.
88
Thanks to some tools (CD, map and road signage) the
innovative tourism product L’audio circuit de la Vallée de la
Turgeon: une balade en auto avec Raôul Duguay, it is now
possible to leave on a safe adventure in the V.V.B. sector
without having to worry about getting lost or missing even
the smallest historic detail. Mr. Duguay, an experienced
story-teller, chronologically lists the different settlements,
while guiding the driver-listener towards the most beautiful
and inspiring heritage sites and the major components of
the valley’s history. The audio-circuit has allowed us, not
only to conserve an oral history of the settlements, but
also to develop it.
L’« Ore » de Chez Nous
23, 3e Avenue, Chibougamau
418 748-3558
Primary and secondary processing of
local products is important in a
resource region, but this product is
rather unusual. The rock under our feet
contains many raw materials, including pyrite and other
sulphides as well as garnet—not to mention gold. Following
where his imagination leads, Mr. Charles Chabot uses
these minerals to create uniquely crafted regional items.
His creations are available at Tabagie Merril and his home.
Guy Lalancette
418 748-4682
[email protected]
Chibougamau’s by adoption, Guy Lalancette has published
6 novels with text editor VLB (Victor Levy Beaulieu) since a
dozen of years. His books won three times the “Roman”
Price and had been finalist at 4 national and international
prize winning contests. Two
of his stories won some literary prices from Radio Canada
Broadcasting.
You can easily find and
buy his books at Librairie
Ungava.
For Ariane © Pierre Bureau
Members of this artist/artisan collective
are active in the following artistic pursuits:
violin-making, wildlife painting, realist and/or abstract
(watercolour, acrylic, oil, mixed media, hot wax, stained
glass, on canvas, rock, cloth, wood and glass), jewellery
(moose and caribou antlers, precious and semi-precious
stones, beads), mineral stone carving, recovery and transformation of wood furniture, ornamental ironwork, costume repair and production, sculpture (bust and mask,
wood, moose and caribou antlers, various materials),
photography (community, tourism, wildlife, landscapes),
drawing (pencil, dry pastel, oil pastel), murals and decors,
origami, natural wood and stone artworks, crafts (sewing
useful articles), textile arts (hand-stitched quilting and
handmade decorative objects), cards, transformation of
objects, music (piano courses, flute and recorder, singing,
writing (novel, non-fiction, poetry), and theatre.
In addition to taking part in the community’s cultural life,
it organizes an arts and crafts trade show on Novem
ber 22nd and 23rd 2014. Le salon des Arts en nord at
Hôtel de Ville de Chibougamau (Chibougamau City Hall
Arts North Trade Show).
Are you looking for something for a special occasion? Call
and let yourself be guided and inspired.
It is by creating the scenery of an animated movie, at the
end of the course I took in Visual Arts while attending
Laval University (Québec) that I discovered dried pastel.
The sky, the clouds and all theses
special atmospheres interested
me since my childhood. Since
1976, Chibougamau saw the
birth of many hundreds of my
work of art as well as a unique
planetarium. Astronomy is at
the heart of my life as much as it
is at the heart of my creations.
Sometimes I create nebulas. Each
drawing becomes an adventure.
Idée-Bloc Chibougamau
[email protected]
Noble materials between everyone, moose, caribou and
deer antlers are the base of the wildlife northern sculptures fabricated by LéoPaul Larouche himself.
They also are the base
of jewellery made by
Selma Bourdage. These
works of art are available at their residence
or by appointment.
© Idée-Bloc Chibougamau
255, rue Laframboise, Chibougamau
418 748-4682
[email protected] / pierrebureau.artacademie.com
Kazumi Furukawa
[email protected]
Kazumi Furukawa is a
japanese artist living
in Chibougamau since
2008. Her watercolor
paintings express an
emotion of calm and
sobriety. Her favourite
subjects are the sceneries of Nord-du-Québec and domestic animals.
Watercolor
© Kazumi Furukawa
Les Arts en nord
Pierre Bureau, pastellist
Anne-Marie Allard, painter
[email protected] and amallard.artacademie.com
Originating from Chibougamau since 1973, the artist his
taking her inspiration mainly from the lakes, the surrounding
forest and their particular colors from the northern sky that
reveals the hugeness of
the “jamesienne” lands
or seize a small space or
a privileged moment.
You can buy her work at
the artist’s studio on
255 rue Laframboise.
89
Boreal Wilderness
© Dugraff
Arts and crafts
© Brenda Levesque
Brenda Levesque, painter
Cree Native Arts and Crafts Association
[email protected]
418 745-3001
[email protected] / www.cnaca.ca
Adopted from Chibougamau since 1995, Mrs. Brenda
Levesque is passionate about nature and its wildlife.
She uses rocks picked
up from hiking to paint
animals in 3D. She also
uses other tools to
create her work of art
wood, glass, canvas. Stéfanie Thompson, painter
© Stéfanie Thompson
Radisson, 819 638-9264 or 450 275-2160
[email protected]
www.stefaniethompsonpeintre.com
Now, a Radisson resident,
in the James Bay territory,
she paints since she first
could hold a paint brush.
She now lives from her passion. Known for working
with shades of bright colors
and research of texture
through her designs by integrating elements such as
driftwood, caribou antlers,
ptarmigan and partridge
feathers, just to name a
few. She works with water based paints such as acrylic,
inks, water-colors, wood stains and texturizing mediums
to create the results she’s expecting. She is always in the
pursuit of giving a unique souvenir with her artistic vision,
incorporating unique elements of the territory. You can
purchase unique paintings, small canvas on wooden
easel, northern inspiration paintings, paint souvenirs,
cards and also special requests. Her creations make her
an artist in constant search of artistic challenges and also
a unique and distinctive product!
Since it’s founding in 2004,
the Cree Native Arts and
Crafts Association has played
a leadership role in the
development of Cree arts,
crafts, and culture. CNACA
represents the Cree artists
and artisans of Eeyou Istchee
Baie-James, a region located
in Nord-du-Québec covering
about 350,000 quare kilometers (a huge territory roughly the same size as Germany).
CNACA’s mission is to grow and diversify a sustainable
arts, crafts, and cultural industry in Eeyou Istchee by:
preserving traditional handicrafts such as the making
of snowshoes, tamarack decoys, mittens, and spruce
baskets; encouraging contemporary means of
expression, including painting, sculpture, music, video,
and dance; and sustaining Cree culture, values,
traditions, and skills.
Moose-hide Clothing
For generations, smoked moose hide has been one
of the most important raw materials for creating
clothing that is both functional and beautiful. In the
severe cold of a northern winter, survival depends
on materials that offer protection during the long
hours spent hunting, fishing, and travelling on the
land. Although modern materials are now more
widely used, nothing has replaced the value that the
Cree place on smoked moose-hide, especially for
mittens and moccasins.
The production of traditional moose-hide clothing
encompasses a vast range of skills that includes hunting,
skinning, smoking, cutting and sewing into garments,
and creating beautifully executed patterns expressed
through colourful beadwork and embroidery.
Tamarack Goose Decoys
Tamarack goose decoys are delicate sculptures of
various sizes made by binding the fragrant twigs
of the tamarack tree into the likeness of the Canada
goose.
For millennia, the Cree of Eeyou Istchee used decoys
made from wood, mud or coarse willow twigs to
attract the large floçks of geese that migrate along
the Baie James coast. Today, tamarack goose decoys
are crafted as decorative objects of art that serve as
a proud symbol of Cree culture and their hunting
way of life.
90
pub.
p. 55
Aanischaaukamikw
– The Cree Cultural Institute
205, Opemiska Meskino, C.P. 1168, Oujé-Bougoumou 418 745-2444
[email protected] / www.creeculturalinstitute.ca
Many indigenous cultures, histories, and languages, even
in Canada, have disappeared as the Elders have passed on.
Aanischaaukamikw flows from the knowledge that Cree
culture must be captured, maintained, shared, celebrated,
and practiced or it will wither and die, and from the vision
of Cree Elders.
Chibougamau Eenou Friendship Centre
95, rue Jaculet, Chibougamau, 418 748-7667
[email protected]
Gathering place for aboriginals in transit from neigh
bouring communities and those living in town, the
Chibougamau Eenou Friendship Centre offers a variety
of services and activities to its community members.
A number of events
like Aboriginal Day, the
Intercultural Friendship
Week, Friendship Golf
Tournament and Youth
Gala of Excellence are
open to the public and
provide excellent opportunities for Natives and
non-Natives to extend a
hand of friendship and
understanding. A mini
exposition and period
photographs of local
families are on display
throughout the main
floor and stairwells. The crafts boutique contains an
excellent selection of cultural objects, jewellery and
Native-inspired products locally made, primarily by Cree
craftspeople.
Val-d’Or Native Friendship Center
Aanischaaukamikw
The Cree Cultural Institute © Mitch Lenet
Aanischaaukamikw has been developed in collaboration
with all ten communities in Eeyou Istchee, and “completes
the circle” of the Baie James Crees’ quest to exercise full
control over all aspects of their lives, communities, and
cultural destiny.
It is a museum, archive, library, teaching centre, and cultural centre, and a virtual hub designed for high-powered
interactivity and fuelled by a major multi-community fibre
optic network.
Aanischaaukamikw will be the Crees’ primary location for pub.
p. 62
preservation of documents, media, and physical objects,
designed for preservation, conservation, and knowledge
transfer.
T Aboriginal experience
Cree Trappers Association (CTA)
C.P. 250, Eastmain, 819 977-2165
[email protected]
The Cree Trappers Association (often referred to as the
CTA) was created at the time of the James Bay and
Northern Québec Agreement (1975). The purpose of the
CTA was to protect and promote the interests of the Cree
hunters and trappers, and generally support their wildlife
harvesting activities.
1272, 7e Rue, Val-d’Or
819 825-8299
www.caavd.ca
Apart from being an urban service hub, the Val-d’Or
Native Friendship Center offers an interesting array of
original and authentic Aboriginal products. Purchasing
a souvenir is like extending your stay with us. Our
products constitute excellent gifts: jewelry, books,
dream catchers, herbal tea, sculptures, etc. Don’t miss
our permanent exhibition by Aboriginal artists:
35 pictures recounting historical facts on the presence
of Aboriginal people in the Val-d’Or area. Also available,
food and lodging service. Québec Aboriginal Tourism
50, boul. Maurice Bastien, local 220, Wendake
418 843-5030 or 1 877 698-7827
[email protected] / www.aboriginalquebec.com
Québec Aboriginal Tourism offers you a unique
opportunity to experience the richness, iversity and
authenticity of Aboriginal cultures. Delve into ancient
traditions and discover the contemporary aboriginal
lifestyle.
Be it ethno tourism, adventure travel, outings, cruises,
hunting and fishing, traditional or contemporary
lodging, Northern cuisine, cultural institutions, crafts,
and much more—find out what the Crees and the
10 other Québec Aboriginal Nations have to offer.
91
Aboriginal Art © Mathieu Dupuis
Ü Museum
Q Riding
Lebel-sur-Quévillon equestrian club
100, chemin des Étangs, Lebel-sur-Quévillon
819 755-2525
[email protected]
Club Équestre de Lebel-sur-Quévillon has been in
operation since 1976. Each member owns stables or
has a rental or half-board arrangement. Our passion is
English and Western style riding, jumping, trekking,
harnessing, and Gymkhana competitions. The Club
holds a Western festival in June of every year; this is a
fun and enriching equestrian event designed to
promote equestrian sports and physical activities. On
request, we open our doors to youths and older folks
who would like to discover our stables, animals
(horses, dogs, and cats), and riding path. If you share
our passion for horses, come see us.
Our huge northern territory is ideal for aerotourism and seeing Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region
from the air. Most pilots are surprised by the
quality and quantity of our airport facilities and
infrastructures. Our cities and communities have
landing strips and planes can land on most bodies
of water.
Aerotourism
Hélicoptères Canadiens Ltée
Stanley © Club équestre de Lebel-sur-Quévillon
956, boul. Hamel, Chibougamau
418 748-2602
[email protected]
www.canadianhelicopters.com
Transportation by helicopter, carters, medical evacuation,
exploration of mines, recreational flights, specialized
services; serve the entire James Bay territory and Canada.
Whapchiwem Helicopters
Radisson
819 638-7904
[email protected]
High end tourist flights. Helicopter transport, charters,
medivac, mining exploration, specialized services all over
the Baie-James territory and Canada.
Recreatif equipment,
ö location, sell and
repairs
Mécanique Sports Plus
942, 3e rue, Chibougamau
418 748-1155
Rental all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles,
snowmobiles, recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, power
saws, generators, tools
Repair all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles,
recreational vehicles, outboard engines, trailers, power saws
Sale all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles,
recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, power saws, generators.
92
î Excursions / Adventures
Nuuhchimi Winnuu
Oujé-Bougoumou,
418 745-3212 or 418 745-3629
[email protected]
Anna and David Bosum invite you to experience this
extraordinary environment enhanced by their hospitality
and expert guidance. Upon your arrival in OujéBougoumou, you can choose to stay at our modern lodge
or in a traditional dwelling. As our guests we will guide
you through both the modern and traditional villages and
out into the rich and varied landscape. The arrival of
summer is celebrated at the end of May with the annual
Goose Festival, featuring dance, fiddle music, ceremonies,
and, of course, a feast. Winter brings its own celebrations
and activities such as a wellness journey and our winter
carnival. The main winter festival takes place in February.
If you visit us then, you may want to try a five-day journey
along ancient trails on snowmobile and follow our
experienced guides on a snowshoe trek.
Escapade boréale
418 770-8351
[email protected]
www.escapadeboreale.com
Écolodge Lac Matagami
42 chemin du lac Matagami, Matagami, 819 739-8231
[email protected]
www.ecolodgelacmatagami.ca
Enjoy a truly northern experience
Discover the land, nature, and culture of Eeyou Istchee
Baie-James.
Stay at Canada’s first eco-lodge on the shores of majestic
lac Matagami for an immersive experience in the boreal
wilderness. Trek over footbridges, spend time on private
beaches, and take part in activities with expert guides.
Explore our lake on a sailboat, canoe or kayak and the
landscape on snowshoes or cross-country skis. In the
evening, dip into a Nordic bath.
Visit our tree farm, which showcases the riches of our
forested lands. Near downtown Matagami on the shores
of the rivière Bell, this site offers “glamping” (glamorous
camping) and traditional camping accommodation and
an opportunity to discover many outdoor and agroforestry
activities.
Savour the delights of our local cuisine. Discover the
traditional way of life in this region. Excursions or
relaxation, individuals or groups, special events, teambuilding exercises, meetings, strategic planning sessions
– whatever your needs, we can create a perfect package
for you!
Écolodge © TBJ
Dreaming of escaping in a vast space shaped by your
passions? Your dreams can come true in the Norddu-Québec. By focusing on quality, Escapade Boréale
organizes exciting events that brings their participants to
surpass themselves in a secure and comfortable setting.
The Great Wind Trail, the Boreal Raid, no matter what
passion you have, there is an event that will interest you.
Each event is organize in harmony with the local Cree
and Jamesian culture with a long term vision that will
maximize their participation. We offer initiations paraski.
93
î Wildlife observation and interpretation
FaunENord
[email protected] / www.faunenord.org
FaunENord specializes, among other activities, in natural
environment interpretation. The team consists of biologists
and bioecology technicians who are passionate about
nature. We provide training in mycology, ornithology, and
forest survival skills (winter and summer). In addition, we
provide multiple guided nature interpretation tours. Our
guides invite you to discover the world of birds, observe
carnivorous plants, taste aromatic plants with a dizzying
array of flavours, and see nature as you have never seen
it before. Choose among our existing packages or add a
personal touch to your nature tour: enjoy a meal cooked
over an open fire, go for a mountain hike, take part in a
“bug safari,” and much more. Call us to reserve your
magical moment in the boreal forest.
Interpretation of the environment © FaunENord
l Public Beaches
T hese beaches participate in the bathing water
quality monitoring program of the Québec ministry
of the environment and are supervised by qualified
lifeguards. All other beaches are unsupervised.
Picnic table
Game aera
Location
A: Canoe
B: Kayak
C: Pedalboat
Waterbody
Access fees
Beaucanton, Corporation plage & camping du lac Pajegasque Lac Pajegasque
•
•
Chapais, Camping Opémiska
Lac Opémiska
•
•
Free
Chapais, Municipal beach of Lac Cavan Lac Cavan
•
Free
Chibougamau, Municipal beach of Chibougamau
Lac Gilman
•
•
A C
Free
Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Municipal beach of Lac Quévillon
•
•
ABC
Free
Matagami, Camping du lac Matagami
Lac Matagami
•
•
Free
819 941-2666 (campground) or 819 941-2471 (off season)
418 745-3428
418 745-3289
418 748-7195
ABC
Free
7 Nautical Circuit
Lac Imbeau audio-interpretative circuit
Valcanton, 819 941-2666 or 819 941-2034
[email protected]
Come and enjoy the one and only audio-interpretative
water circuit in Québec. While paddling along the Lac
Imbeau shoreline, Mr Eau LaSource, your virtual guide,
will tell you natural, geological or human stories
94
connected to this area. The circuit, that lasts 1h30, is
made up of 12 stops along the lake with each stop having
its corresponding audio capsule. Let yourself be enchanted
by this unique landscape that is recovering from a 1997
forest fire. MP3 players with the audio track, as well as
canoes and kayaks, can be rented at the Lac Pajegasque
campground, 4 km south of Lac Imbeau.
Û
Voile
École de voile Matavoile
125 boul. Matagami, Matagami
819 739-3354, 819 739-8534 or 819 739-8080
www.matavoile.com
© Matavoile
Matavoile is located at the southern edge of James Bay,
making it the perfect launching point for exploring
majestic lac Matagami in a sailboat. Thanks to its many
fine sand beaches (which are among the most appealing
in Quebec), its limpid waters, and breathtaking sights,
the lake’s 37-kilometre waterway is one of our northern
region’s must-see attractions.
From June to October, treat yourself to a one-day sailing
course on a 26-foot live-in sailboat. Here’s your chance
to learn the basics of sailing. Or take up the challenge
of a live-aboard cruise of up to 5 days, leading to a
basic cruising standard accreditation for weighted
dinghies. You can also ask for a custom excursion to
fit your specific needs. Thanks to our experienced and
enthusiastic captains, you’re sure to experience a
thrilling adventure in complete safety. Welcome aboard!
7 Canoeing
Canoe accessed course
of the Vallée de la Turgeon
The Rivières Turgeon and Boivin
(74km, 3-4 days, easy to moderate)
Villebois, 819 941-2034
[email protected]
[email protected]
The Vallée de la Turgeon offers canoe and kayak
amateurs numerous courses that immerge visitors in the
Baie-James’s history and vast nature.
The Lac Turgeon Tour
(23km, 1-2 days, easy)
[email protected]
On the Lac Turgeon, time stops to allow enthusiastic
paddling and rowing fans to contemplate the horizon.
Splendid bodies of water in the boreal forest and exciting
natural sites can be seen. A few little islands sprinkled
here and there allow stops and well-deserved rest periods
among old cedars. The Lac Turgeon, a little gem of the
site to explore!
The Pioneers Circuit
(25km, 1-2 days, easy)
[email protected]
Come and trace back the paths of the first Vallée de la
Turgeon pioneers! In 1935, at the arrival of the pioneers,
it was at the start of the course that the road stopped. The
pioneers, in order to rejoin their parcels of land, had to
undertake the rest of their trip following the Rivière Turgeon
by barge. The circuit crosses a rural scenery with many
colonization vestiges especially the passing of the 4 covered
bridges which makes the course unique and memorable.
With its native and colonization vestiges as well as its
exceptional diverse ecosystems, this course allows the
discovery of the different aspects of the Baie-James territory.
Several rapids mark the course, each with a developed
portage trail and camping sites. Here is a secured course with
easy access for rowing and paddling fans who love diversity!
Circuit canotable du Lac Gilman
Chibougamau
418 748-4441
[email protected]
www.faunenord.org
An audio interpretation tour, along a canoe route, titled La
nature nous parle! (“Listen, nature is speaking!”) is offered
at Lac Gilman. We invite you to travel by canoe or kayak on
a journey of discovery through lush natural surroundings and
enjoy entertaining stories about truly colourful characters. Our
tour guides take turns as they tell you about a wide variety
of interesting topics, including biodiversity in the park, Native
cultural and traditional practices, the park’s history, and much
more! The tour is appropriate for everyone. No matter what
your age, we’re sure you’ll have fun!
95
g Golf
Golf Club of Chibougamau
Take a few hours to play a game of golf or hit a
few balls. Yes, you can play golf in Eeyou Istchee
Baie-James and many visitors are surprised by the
quality of our golf courses.
130, rue des Forces-Armées, Chibougamau
418 748-4709
[email protected]
Golf Club of Chibougamau © Guy Tremblay
Nine-hole golf course with a normal of 36. Length in yards:
3391. Open from May to mid-October. Reservation suggested. Services: restaurant, bar, club rental, cart rental,
shop, practice green, lessons and hall rental.
ä ATV
Club Quad du Vrai Nord
For pleasure or out of necessity, all terrain vehicles
are used everywhere in this territory. Some towns
and communities have opened trails for adepts of
this sport.
Villebois, 819 941-2112 or 819 941-2173
[email protected]
Founded in 2004, the Club Quad du Vrai Nord unites the
southern sector of the Baie-James region (Villebois and
Valcanton). The organization of excursions in our 350 km
of organized and signalised trails is our main activity in
the summer season. A picnic area and some campsites
are available in ATV in the sector of the Lac Imbeau and
of Mont Fenouillet.
Club Quad Les Lynx du Nord
To all adventurer and nature lovers, our ATV club will
certainly fill all your expectations. Chapais’s Club Les Lynx
du Nord offers 56 km of paths, divided as follow:
Chapais-Lake Cavan: 7,6 km, Chapais-Opémiska: 12,9 km,
Chapais-Bridge St-Jean: 35,4 km. This last section is part
of the trail linking Chapais and Chibougamau. To access
the region, you can take the following utility roads:
Barette Sud, La Tuque-Cooper-Nicabau and St-ThomasDidyme-Chibougamau. A 12 km winter trails is following
the south shore of the Lac Opémiska starting from the
town of Chapais. We offer the service of accompaniment
with patrol craft for groups (need reservation). Obligatory:
you have to be a Quad member to use the trails.
96
ATV © Tourisme Baie-James
[email protected]
d Mountain bike paths
Cycling is an interesting alternative to touring in a
motorized vehicle. A regular bike or mountain bike
is a sporty way to tame the land.
Obalski Park
Chibougamau
418 748-4441
L Bike rental
Bike rental
Matagami rental office
100, place du Commerce, Matagami
819 739-4566
Nemaska © Gaston Copper for COTA
Obalski regional park features several kilometres of
hiking and mountain biking paths. The Kiwanis path,
which is 9.4 kilometres long, circles around Lac Gilman
and Petit Lac Gilman and leads to other paths along the
way. Interpretation panels located throughout the park
provide interesting information about the boreal forest
and reveal the secrets of its wildlife and plant life. You
can gain access to the park from the municipal beach or
from the Obalski Inmet pavilion. Admission: free.
4 Family activities
Giant Chess game
418 748-2225
A chess club, called “Les fous de la tour de glace”, offers
to the population and tourists the chance to play chess on
a giant chessboard with plastic pawns of 36 inches in
height. The game is located on the Mini-golf course and
rental services are available on site.
Club de curling Opémiska
188, boulevard Springer, Chapais
418 745-2294
[email protected]
www.curlingopemiska.com
“Mini-golf à son meilleur”
418 748-2225
Come have fun with us! You can play our 18 hole minigolf, rent roller-blades or a bike. You want to spend
good times with your family or your of a group? You
can organize your day or night mini-golf tournament
with our top lighting system. This service is carried by
La Corporation Le Zéphir for mental health giving the
chance to students and to all its clients to live a valued
work experience. While having fun, you support them
in pursuing their good work.
Curling Opémiska © Gilles Cormier
The Club de curling Opémiska is offering its entire population, as well as organisations and businesses in the
region the opportunity to come out and try their hand at
a fun sport in an amusing and enjoyable environment. In
fact, curling is a great activity for the whole family to enjoy,
from beginners to experts. The season, which begins in
November and goes until the end of April, will be marked
by numerous tournaments with the intent of bringing this
winter sport more into the limelight.
97
& Hiking
h Area picnic / Rest area Y Bicycle trail x Campsites r Cross-country skiing & Hiking trail î Interpretation
bike trail Â Pets allowed ] Playground q Scenic view, lookout ó Snowshoeing Q Trail ride K Wharf
Source: Fédération québécoise de la marche, Directory of
sites running in Québec, available to www.fqmarche.qc.ca
Levels of difficulty
l Easy n Intermediate u Difficult
Interpretive panels
d Mountain
Total length (km) (Each site can have several paths)
Level of difficulty
Vigilance
hunting season
Trail recognized by the
Fedération québécoise de la marche
Access fee
Access
period
Activities
and services
Chapais, Lac Cavan Trails 5
l
•
418 745-3289
May to October
Âq
Chapais, Lac Campbell Trails 4.8 l
•
All year h Â q î
418 745-3289 long
ó
Chapais, Mont Springer Trails
10 n•h Â q
418 745-3289
ó
37 n
•
All year
• h q î
418 748-4441 long
r
Kód
Chibougamau, Obalski Park Trails Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Lebel-sur-Quevillon trails
16 l
•
819 755-3363 / 819 755-4826
May to
October
ÂqY&
Matagami, Recreational aera of Lac Matagami
All year
long
Âî&ó
30 n
•
819 739-4566
www.matagami.com
[email protected]
3.5 n
•
All year h ] Â q î
Along the Rivière Bell and rapids
long
&ó
819 739-4566
www.matagami.com
[email protected]
Matagami, Bell-Nature Trails
Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Governement1
l
•
May to
October
Km 232, Route de la Baie-James
Along the Rivière Broadback
819 739-4473
[email protected]
qî
0.5 l•q
Along the Rivière Rupert
819 739-4473
[email protected]
Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Governement Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Governement 0.9 l
•
Along Rivière Eastmain
819 739-4473
[email protected]
98
May to
October
q
Source : Fédération québécoise de la marche,
Source: Fédération québécoise de la marche, Directory of
Répertoire des lieux de marche au Québec, disponible
sites running in Québec, available to www.fqmarche.qc.ca
à www.fqmarche.qc.ca
Total length (km) (Each site can have several paths)
Levels
ofde
difficulty
Niveaux
difficulté des circuits
l Easy
Facile nnIntermediate
Intermédiaire uuDifficult
Difficile
Level of difficulty
Vigilance
hunting season
Trail recognized by the
Fedération québécoise de la marche
Access fee
Access
period
Activities
and services
Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Governement 0,7
n
•
May to
q
October
Sentier KM 467, Route de la Baie-James
Leads to the Pont de l’Eastmain
819 739-4473
[email protected]
Val Paradis, Trails near Lac Imbeau
12 n
•
Relics of the last glacier
819 941-2101
Villebois, Trails among the Collines Fenouillet 20
819 941-2180
May to
September
q hxî
l n •
May to q d Q ó
u October
3.9 l u
All year Â h ]
819 638-7777 long
q ór
[email protected]
Radisson, Hudson Ecologic trail
Geese in flight © Réal Lavigne
99
Winter fun
The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region is a destination of choice for snowmobilers. The region
offers exceptional conditions for this activity.
Discover the grand iose spectacle
of the boreal forest over 1100 km
of organized trails. Accompanied
by an experienced guide, you can
get off the beaten path and experience the thrill of cross-country
snowmobiling.
Contact Tourisme Baie-James to carte motoneige
SNOWMOB
ILING MAP
get your snowm obile trail map, 2013-14
our snowmobile packages and
c ircuits at 1 888 748-8140 or
[email protected].
Venez faire de
la motoneig
e chez nous
decrochezcommej
!
amais.com
1 855 328-20
26
Come snowmob
ile with us!
escapelikeneverbe
fore.com
1 855 328-20
26
n Snowmobile excursions
Mirage Adventure / Mirage Outfitter
Km 358, route Transtaïga
1 866 339-6202
info@mirageaventure.com / www.mirageaventure.com
Rentals available, guide service. Of February 1 to midApril (non-hunting season), Mirage also offers snowmobile
safaris to caribou country. An unusual experience in the
middle of the Taïga and Tundra region to discover
grandiose landscapes with a chance to see caribous and
wolves. Real “off-roading” safely framed. Reservations
required.
Off Trail Snowmobile © Tourisme Baie-James
Nord Expé
Pourvoirie Radisson LG-2
418 825-1772
www.nordexpe.com
49, rue Iberville, Radisson
819 638-7363
[email protected]
www.pourvoirie-radisson-lg2.com
Discover the land of endless snow and wide open spaces!
Radisson Outfitters offer packages that include caribou,
grouse of hare hunting, ice fishing or photo-safaris in the
heart of the taiga, until the end of April. Groups of
4 persons or more with guide. Snowmobile rentals.
Nord Expé © Nord Expé
Nord Expé are winter adventures by tourism producers
specialized in off-road expeditions for snowmobile fanatic,
they got a travel agent permit from Québec and are also
partners with the SEPAQ for the development and
promotion of the wildlife reserves territories. Since 2010,
Nord Expé got involved in the development of long term
projects in tourism industries and have shared responsibilities
with the aboriginal people of Eeyou Istchee Baie-James.
100
Winter fun
n Snowmobile clubs
Snowmobile © Louise Abbott
Club de motoneige de Chapais
Responsibles: Jacques Bérubé and Martin Blanchet
418 770-7372
[email protected]
www.clubmotoneige.com
Club d’auto-neige de Chibougamau
Responsible: Mario Simard
418 748-3065
Relais du Nord, 418 770-5175
www.motoneigechibougamau.ca
Club de motoneige de Lebel-sur-Quévillon
r Cross-country skiing
Responsible: Claude Blais
819 755-3453 or 819 755-4531
Matagami trails
Club de motoneige de Matagami
100, place du Commerce, Matagami, 819 739-4566
Responsible: François Cossette
819 739-3334 in season and off-season.
Club de motoneige de Radisson
Winter fun © Dominique Simard
Responsible: Marc Bonneau
819 638-8383 or 819 638-9131
At our office, it is possible to rent cross-country and
expedition skis and all the equipment you need to
practice these activities. Trails for all level of skiers. We
also offer a trail for the skate skiing amateurs.
101
Hunting and fishing
Canoeing © Mathieu Dupuis
The regional Direction of the wildlife Sector is located at
951, boulevard Hamel Est, Chibougamau
You can reach the staff of the wildlife protection and
equipment Management at the following telephone
number: 418 748-7701.
The staff of the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de
la Faune du Québec wishes you a pleasant stay in the Eeyou
Istchee Baie-James area.
Regulation
Eeyou Istchee Baie-James is the place where the
most wonderful fishing stories come to life. Here,
proud fishermen boast their impressive catches.
In fact, our region’s diversified aquatic wildlife makes it a
preferred destination for fishermen of all calibre. The
hydrographical network comprises of a vast number of
water stretches in all sizes, including the Lacs Mistassini
and Albanel where many prized fishes are captured every
season. The most sought out species for sport fishermen
are the Walleye, the Pike, the Brook Trout and the Lake
Trout. Winter fishing, in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James, is a
well appreciated activity. In heated fishing shacks or
simply on ice, this activity reveals to outdoor lovers a
pleasant way of fishing.
Hunting is also a very popular activity in Eeyou Istchee
Baie-James. In the heart of the region’s wilderness where
the boreal forest turns progressively into taiga, you feel
you can see forever. Large and small game, waterfowl,
and migrating birds – alone or as part of a group, hunt
your prey of choice. As for the caribou hunt, it is truly the
thrill-seeking hunter’s ultimate experience.
Eeyou Istchee Baie-James outfitters invite hunters, anglers,
and adventurers to enjoy a unique experience in a vast
northern landscape. Services provided at each of the
outfitting operations in the region are described in the
following section.
Ministère des Ressources naturelles
et de la Faune du Québec (MRNF)
The mission of the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et
de la Faune is to promote knowledge acquisition and to
ensure the development and optimal use of land, energy,
forestry and mineral resources in Québec from a sustainable
development perspective, for the benefit of the entire
population.
The Department is involved in the following activity sectors:
territory, wildlife, forests, mines, energy and land survey.
For the wildlife section, responsabilities undertaken by the
Department are mainly to assure a management and
control in exploitation, survey and use of the wildlife
resources.
102
To hunt or fish in the Nord-du-Québec region, you must
respect the Law on hunting and fishing rights in James
Bay and Nouveau-Québec territories. The James Bay and
Northern Québec Agreement (1975) and the North-East
Québec (1978), calls for special land administration of
the territory. Category 1 and 2 lands are reserved for use
by the Natives (refer to the map at the end of the guide).
You must therefore obtain the necessary authorizations
from the appropriate band councils to hunt or fish there.
On the other hand, these activities are permitted on
Category 3 lands like elsewhere in Québec. There is,
however, one notable exception: you cannot trap or hunt
fur bearing animals. In addition, certain species of fish,
like coregonids, are reserved for Natives. North of the
52nd parallel, non-residents of Québec must call on the
services of an outfitter.
Random draws: Random draws for hunting big game
are held annually. Hunters can register for two types of
randow draws, i.e. to obtain a limited-access hunting
license (caribou) or to obtain a hunting stay in a wildlife
sanctuary. Specific rules apply to each draw. To obtain
information, get in touch with Sépaq by calling at
418 890-6527 or 1 800 665-6527.
To obtain the complete regulations or for more
information on hunting or sports fishing in the Nord-duQuébec region, contact the:
Poaching
We urge you to report any hunting, fishing or trapping
activity that does not comply with Québec regulations,
by calling SOS Poaching at the following toll free number:
1 800 463-2191
et de la Faune du Québec
Secteur Faune
Direction régionale du Nord-du-Québec
951, boulevard Hamel Est, Chibougamau
418 748-7701
www.mrnf.gouv.qc.ca
© Tourisme Ouje-Bougoumou
Hunting and fishing
Topographical maps,
fishing licenses,
equipment
To obtain topographical maps of the region, a fishing
license or all kinds of equipment for hunting and fishing,
you can call one of the following authorized dealers:
Centre 2 MRC
191, 3e Rue, Chibougamau, 418 748-8137
Dépanneur Super Sonic
990, 3e Rue, Chibougamau, 418 748-2369
[email protected]
Gas station.
Rentals, mechanics and
sale of snowmobiles, ATVs
and outboard engines
Mécanique Sports Plus
942, 3e rue, Chibougamau, 418 748-1155
Rental all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles, recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, power saws,
generators, tools
Repair all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles,
recreational vehicles, outboard engines, trailers, power saws
Sale all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles,
recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, power saws, generators
Distribution Radis-Nord
57, avenue Des Groseilliers, Radisson, 819 638-7255
Km 358, route Transtaïga, Baie-James, 1 866 339-6202
[email protected] / www.mirageaventure.com
TrakMaps
9675, Côte de Liesse, Bureau 100, Dorval, 1 877 861-8725
[email protected] / www.trakmaps.com
Caribou © Mirage Adventure
pub. Sépaq
p. 59
1584, route 167 Nord (accueil Rupert), Chibougamau
418 748-7748
[email protected] / www.sepaq.com
103
Food services
3 Accessible to persons with impaired mobility E Free outdoor parking † Licensed 6 Meeting room æ No credit cards ï Snowmobile rental
Ç Tourist road signs
Meals
1: Breakfast – 2: Lunch – 3: Supper
Since May 31, 2006, the Tobacco Act prohibits
smoking in restaurants and other places where
meals are served to the public, with the exception
of open-air terraces.
Number of seats
Price range per person
$: Under $15 – $$: $15-30 – $$$: $31-50 – $$$$: over $50
Services
Chapais, Le Vent du Nord Italian, Canadian, seafood
$$ 1-2-3 50 †6E
Chibougamau, Le Relais du Lac Caché Québec, Seafood, Fast food, Canadian, Fish.
$$ 1-2-3 100 †E
Chibougamau, Chibougamau Inn Skewer house, Grilled steak, Seafood, Health food.
$$$ 1-2-3 150 †6E
Chibougamau, J.C. Bou Outfitter Canadian, Québec.
km 211, route 167 Sud, 418 748-2720
$$ 1-2-3 22
æ †E
Chibougamau, Restaurant Family and Fast food. chez Raymonde
858, 3e Rue, 418 748-4800
$$ 1-2-3 90
36E
Chibougamau, Restaurant Le Borée Canadian food
$
†6E
181, boul. Springer, 418 745-2564
[email protected]
– Pétro-Canada, Intersection on the
road 113 and 167, 418 748-6432
[email protected]
473, 3e Rue, 418 748-2669
– Auberge Boréale
926, 3e Rue, 418 748-3283
1-2-3 110 Chisasibi, Asiipii Restaurant Canadian food
$$1-2-370
Chisasibi, Pash Moar Pizza Canadian food
16, Waapinuutaahch, 819 855-2080
$$2-310
Eastmain, Lindy’s Catering Canadian food
$$1-2-340
Eeyou Istchee Baie-James, Cafeteria style
$
Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Bistro-Bar Continental breakfast, À la carte Bistro menu, menu of the day.
Henrietta Maria (Motel du Lac)
1017, boul. Quévillon, 819 755-4333
[email protected]
pub. p. 60
$$ 1-2-3 40
†E6
Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Restaurant
Canadian and French, grilled steak, pizza, seafood, L’Escale du Nord fine cuisine, Breton creperie.
1003, boul. Quévillon, 819 755-5565
[email protected]
$$ 1-2-3 46
†ï6E
Oujé-Bougoumou, Auberge Capissisit Lodge European food, American food, Native food
$$ 1-2-3 60
E
$$ 1-2-3 300
†E6
13, Maamou, 819 855-2426
15, Openeca, 819 877-0233
Rest Area km 381 Km 381 of Route de la Baie-James
819 638-8502
pub. p. 59
01, Wastawshkootaw Meskino
418 745-3944
[email protected]
www.ouje.ca/hotel
1-2-3 40 E
pub p. 62
Matagami, Hôtel-Motel Matagami Skewer house, French, Italian, Québec, Grilled steak,
Ç 99,
boul. Matagami Seafood, Fast food, Health food, Canadian, Fish.
819 739-2501 or 1 877 739-2501
[email protected]
www.hotelmatagami.com
pub. p. 56
Mistissini, Adel’s Restaurant Canadian food
$$1-2-380
Mistissini, Mistissini Lodge Quality cooking, grilled steak, ribs,
24, rue Amisk pasta, chef’s seasonal specialities.
418 923-2333 or 1 866 923-2333 Reservation suggested.
$$ 1-2-3 85
127, Mistissini blvd.
418 923-3201
104
E
Food services
Meals
Number of seats
Price range per person
$: Under $15 – $$: $15-30 – $$$: $31-50 – $$$$: over $50
Services
Mistissini, Tim Hortons Fast food, Soup, Sandwich, Donut, Coffee
$ 1-2-340
Nemaska, Nemaska Hotel & Restaurant Canadian food (Closed Saturday and Sunday)
2, Lake Shore Road, 819 673-2615
$$1-2-340
Radisson, Auberge Radisson Nordic dishes (subject to availability), Grilled steak,
$$
80
†6E
Radisson, Resto chez Mika Steak, Seafood, Fish, Fast food, Italian and Québec. $$ 1-2-3 80
†6E
Waskaganish, Auberge Canadian food
$$ 1-2-3120
Waskaganish, Jacob’s Restaurant Canadian food
16, Charlton, 819 895-8821
$$1-2-330
Waswanipi, Waswanipi Cafeteria Canadian food
1-113 Rte, 819 753-2320
$ 1-2-340
Wemindji, Maquatua Inn Canadian food
$$1-2-370
200, Main Street, 418 923-2909
66, avenue Des Groseilliers Seafood, Fish, Prey (Open from May to January)
819 638-7201 or 1 888 638-7201 Reservation suggested.
[email protected] pub. p. 66
53, avenue Des Groseilliers, 819 638-4827
[email protected]
www.carrefourlagrande.ca Kanio-Kashee Lodge
7, JSC Watt Street, 819 895-2005
Winter Teepee © Jimmy Sam
22, Gilpin Road, 819 978-3166
1-3
105
Accommodation
The key to a successful stay
is to choose classified accommodation
www.bonjourquebec.com/lodging
General information
The Accommodation section provides details on the activities and services offered at and
near the accommodation site (within 10 km). The information in this guide was provided by
establishment operators. Tourisme Québec is responsible for regulating all tourist accommodation
establishments. Please send any comments to:
Direction de l’accueil et de l’hébergement touristiques
Tourisme Québec
900, boulevard René-Lévesque Est, bureau 400, Québec (Québec) G1R 2B5
Telephone: 418 643-5959 or 1 800 463-5009
E-mail: [email protected]
An establishment’s classification is determined using a weighted evaluation system that looks at its facilities
and services, while taking account of the specific features of each class of establishment. Classification levels
of 0 to 5 stars or suns reflect the comfort and services offered by the establishment.
For more information on classification programs, contact the Corporation de l’industrie touristique du
Québec (CITQ) at 1 866 499-0550 or visit www.citq.info.
Classes of tourist accommodation establishments
Hotel establishments: Establishments that offer
accommodation in furnished rooms, suites or
apartments that have kitchen facilities, including
hotel services.
Classified on a scale of 0 to 5 stars
Youth hostels: Lodging in rooms or dormitories.
Meals or kitchen facilities and 24-hour
surveillance included.
B&Bs: Lodging in a private residence occupied by the
operator. Breakfast is served on site and included in
the package rate.
Classified on a scale of 0 to 5 suns
Educational institutions: Lodging in units that are
not made available to the institution’s students.
Tourist homes: Lodging in furnished apartments,
houses or cottages, including kitchen facilities.
Hospitality villages: Lodging in rooms in a group
of private residences where each host receives a
maximum of six people and accompanies his/her
guests for the length of their stay. Hospitality
or entertainment activities as well as breakfast
and lunch or dinner are included in the package rate.
Resorts: Centres offering accommodations,
meals or kitchen facilities, entertainment
and recreational equipment.
Other accommodation establishments:
Establishments that do not fit any other class.
Only establishments with classifications of 1 or more stars or suns, or which are currently being evaluated, are included in this guide.
106
Accommodation
x Classification of campgrounds and outfitters
Campground: The Conseil de développement du camping au Québec (CDCQ) is responsible for
applying the classification program for campgrounds. Classifications are based on the quality of
the infrastructures and the presence of additional services and activities. Campgrounds are
rated on a scale of 0 to 5 stars and are evaluated every two years.
For more information on this program, contact the CDCQ at 1 866 252-0444 or visit www.
guidecamping.ca.
Camping establishments. Camping establishments. Establishments that offer services and permanent sites
to accommodate tents or recreational camping vehicles, motorized or not.
Scale of 0 to 5 stars
Only establishments with classifications of 1 or more stars, or which are currently being evaluated, are included in this guide.
Outfitters : The Québec Outfitters Federation (QOF) is responsible for applying the classification
program for outfitters. The program is based on the level of comfort, and services and activities
offered by an outfitter. Establishments listed in this guide are rated on a scale of 0 to 5 stars and
are evaluated very four years.
For more information on the classification program, contact the QOF at 1 800 567-9009 or visit
www.pourvoiries.com.
Outfitting Operations: Establishments in natural surroundings offering accommodations in inns,
cottages or houseboats as well as hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities.
Scale of 0 to 5 stars
The Á symbol identifies establishments currently being evaluated.
$ Rates
The price of a unit can vary according to the number of people, the season, the type of plan and
the characteristics of the unit.
This guide publishes only the maximum price of the least expensive unit for double occupancy. Note that the price for B&Bs includes breakfast.
Prices are given as guidelines only and do not include taxes. It is always preferable to contact the
establishment directly to find out prices in effect before making your reservations.
A tax on accommodation of $2 per night applies to the hotels, B&BS, tourist homes and outfitters
in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. The tax goes exclusively to creating a regional fund for advertising
and developing tourism in region.
Secure on-line reservation through:
107
Accommodations
Services
Aboriginal cuisine
Accesiblity suitable
Airport shuttle
Bicycle rental
Boat ramp
Boat rental
Bring your wine
— Business centre
# Community hall
¢ Computer ward
ªConvenience
æ Credit cards not accepted
ß Discount snowmobile secure
üElevator
v Facing route
E Free outdoor parking
« Gaz propane
2
“
L
M
Ë
©Ice
† Licensed restaurant
qLookout
Native crafts
Tanning salon
3 Partial accessibility
Â Pets allowed
T Public phone
6 Reception, meeting or conference room
ì Regional cuisine
¶Restauration
i Sanitary block
sSauna
ï Snowmobile rental
sSpa
› Unit with fireplace
ßWasher-dryer
Services in the units
D
A
.
,
L
o
¢
Ö
Air conditioning in some units
Air conditioning in all units
Bathroom in all units
Bathroom in some units
Bedding
Internet access
Kitchenette in some units
Kitchenette in all units
µ Microwave oven
F Mini fridge
T Telephone in some units
™ Telephone in all units
N TV in some units
C TV in all units
•Whirlpool
Activities
a Alpine skiing
ä ATV trails
lBeach
7Boat
r Cross-country skiing
Y Cycling trail
@Fishing
ºFitness
gGolf
PHebertism
&Hiking
Q Horseback riding
j Horseshoe game
ÃHunting
Î Ice fishing
108
f Ice skating
j Indoor playground
i Indoor pool
W Industrial visit
‰Kayak
b Lake without beach
d Mountain bike
e Outdoor pool
tPlayground
/ Rafting
nSnowmobile
óSnowshoeing
„ Summer theatre
lVolleyball
ÿ Wildlife observation
Bed and Breakfast
Prices given are only guidelines and do not include taxes. Please contact
the establishment for additional information in all cases. The information
is provided by the establishment operator, which is responsible for the
validity of the information in these tables.
Number of units
}= Classification, see page 106
Double occupancy
(including breakfast)
Max. price for the least expensive room
Max. price for the most expensive room
Services
Meals
Number of private bathroom
Activities
OS: On-site
5: Less than 10 km
Chibougamau, Gîte de la Rivière \\\3 $67
18, lac Dulieux
418 748-7063; 418 770-1890
[email protected]
www.gitedelarivierechibougamau.com
$107
o E C
11
OS : n ÿ @ l ä
ì& ó
Chibougamau, Gîte Le Domaine de la Mine d’Or \\\5 $90Â
æ › o $ 1-2-32 OS: ÿ & ó
349, chemin des Mines $125 E C
ì 5: g Y a r
418 770-8978 ; 418 748-1212
[email protected]
www.ledomainedelaminedor.com
Chibougamau, Gîte l’Antre-Temps \\\2 $80æ › E o
10
OS: ÿ @ Y & ó
29, chemin Lac Caché
$90
ìr
418 748-3886 5: g a
[email protected]
www.giteantre-temps.com
Matagami, Le Gîte de la Belle Rivière \\\5$100
o E C s M 15OS: À ‰ @ b
30, rue Bell $115 n ÿ &
819 739-2822 5: g a
[email protected]
1-2-31 5: r
15, Riverside Drive
$95
819 978-3501
© Mathieu Dupuis
Wemindji, Kookum Sarah’s Bed & Breakfast5 $75æ o C E
109
Hotels
Prices given are only guidelines and do not include taxes. Please contact
the establishment for additional information in all cases. The information
is provided by the establishment operator, which is responsible for the
validity of the information in these tables.
Number of units
Double occupancy
Meals
Max. price for the least
expensive room
Max. price for the most
expensive room
Activities
OS: On-site
Services
5: Less than 10 km
Amos, Amosphère complexe hôtelier
}}}}42 $853 s “ E 1-2-3
3.C
Ç1031,
route 111 Est $196 Â — ‹ 6 ì TAo
OS: n
5: gYr„
Relais Routier Km 381,
}20$120T EÂß 1-2-3 .C o
ÇBaie-James,
Km 381, route de la Baie-James ™
OS: Ã @b&
819 732-7777 Toll free: 1 800 567-7777 j T ß s
•
[email protected]
www.amosphere.com
819 638-8502
pub. p. 59
Á 12 $80 2 ß 61D ¢ o OS: 7ÃQPnÿ
101, boul. Springer $150 E T
L F , f@ilb ä&
418 745-2828 C
óºtdW
www.hotelopemiska.com
5: Yr
Chapais, Hôtel Opémiska
}}19 $70 E T †1-2-3
o .T
181, boul. Springer $90
6ß
C
418 745-2564
[email protected]
Chapais, Motel Le Routier
OS: n
5: Yr
}}22 $90 “ E 61-2-3
A.C OS: n
Intersection of the highways 113 and 167 $95 To
5: gYar
418 748-6432
[email protected]
Chibougamau, Le Relais du Lac Caché – Pétro-Canada
}}} 60$99.95 ü E ‹1-2-3
A.C OS: n
473, 3e Rue $200 6 T Â ì o T • 5: g Yar
418 748-2669
— O† s
[email protected] s L ï
www.hotelchibougamau.com Chibougamau, Hôtel Chibougamau }}100 $95 ß 6 E
D.T
1000, 3e Rue $200 C •
418 748-7771
[email protected]
www.motelharricana.com
Chibougamau, Hôtel-Motel Harricana OS: n
5: gYar
}}}52$105 “ E T 1-2-3
A.T OS: n
966, 3e Rue $150 Co• 5: g Yar
418 748-7686 Toll free: 1 888 748-6673
[email protected]
pub. p. 55
www.motelnordic.com
Chibougamau, Hôtel-Motel Nordic Á 16$58.50 i — 1-2-3
oLF
926, 3e Rue v “ † 6 ì ™
418 748-3283 I T›
Chibougamau, Auberge Boréale – Restaurant Le Borée OS: 7ÃQ‰nf
@Îilbä
&ótdWl
5: gYar
Chisasibi, Chisasibi Motel
}20$100 ü E T D oF OS: 7Ãnÿf
15, Maamuu Street $150 .™C @bä
819 855-2838
}12$120 ßE T
1-2-3
3, Mewaben Street
819 977-2050
Eastmain, Mandow Inn
oF™ OS: 7Ãnÿ @
C
bä
}}}43 $85E † 6
1-2-3 D¢. OS: n
1017, boul. Quévillon $120 CTo 5: gYr
819 755-4333 •
pub. p. 60
[email protected] Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Motel du Lac, 110
Hotels
Number of units
Double occupancy
Meals
©Motel du Lac
Max. price for the least
expensive room
Max. price for the most
expensive room
Services
Activities
OS: On-site
5: Less than 10 km
}}6 $72E Ao. OS: n l
56, rue des Trembles $110 C T
5: g Yr
819 755-3300
www.moteliris.ca
Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Motel Iris, }60 $38E T 6
, T C D OS: n
196, boul. Matagami $65
5: gr
819 739-4347
Matagami, Hôtel Motel Bell,
Hôtel-Motel Matagami, }}}58$1006 E T
1-2-3 D . T Ç Matagami,
99, boul. Matagami $150 Co•
OS: n
5: gYr
Auberge Mistissini Lodge,
}}}}20$1252 ü T 1-2-3
D . T
Ç Mistissini,
24, rue Amisk, Mistissini $145 6 E
Co• OS: @M‹l‰f
5: r
819 739-2501 ou 1 877 739-2501
[email protected]
pub. p. 56
www.hotelmatagami.com
418 923-2333 ou Toll free: 1 866 923-2333
E T
o
3, Chistaastihkw Road
819 673-2020
Nemaska, C. Central Lodge 10 $100
}}10$100 ¶ E 1-2-3 oF. OS: 7Ãnÿ @
2, Lake Shore Road $150 T
™C lt
819 673-2615
Nemaska, Nemaska Motel and Restaurant
}}}12 $953 Â — E 1-2-3 D.o
TC 01, Wastawshkootaw Meskino $110 i ‹ 6 T ì
418 745-3944 ß
[email protected]
www.ouje.ca/hotel
pub. p. 62
Oujé-Bougoumou, Auberge Capissisit Lodge
OS: n
5: r
}}}40$115 3† 6 E1-3
C™. OS: Ãn@iä
ì Ao &óºW
66, avenue Des Groseilliers $160 Â T ß 819 638-7201 or 1 888 638-7201 (Can. USA)
5: r
[email protected]
pub. p. 66
www.aubergeradisson.com
Radisson, Auberge Radisson
}}21 $90T ß 61-2-3
T.C OS: Ã ó
53, avenue Des Groseilliers $110 o
5: r
819 638-6005
[email protected]
www.carrefourlagrande.ca
Radisson, Motel Carrefour La Grande,
Radisson, Motel Baie-James
}}9 $97T E ï
.C
Ç 45,
¢
rue Iberville E o 819 638-7363
[email protected]
www.motelbaiejames.ca
OS: n
5: r
“ ¶
1-2-3 Ao. OS: nÿ @bä
# 6 E
™ C
T
Wemindji, Maquatua Inn
}} 30 $100 ¶ 6 E T 1-2-3 Dµo OS: Ãnÿf@
22, Gilpin road $150 F.™ bä
819 78-3166 C
Waskaganish, Auberge Kanio-Kashee Lodge
}}}24$100
7, JSC Watt Street $150
819 895-2005
111
Campgrounds
Prices given are only guidelines and do not include taxes. Please
contact the establishment for additional information in all cases.
The information is provided by the establishment operator, which
is responsible for the validity of the information in these tables.
Sites
Total number of campsites
Rates
Percentage (%) of shady campsites Number of adults admitted
for the mentioned rate
Showers /Toilets
Number of children admitted
for the mentioned rate
Dumping station
for trailers
Rates
Min. price per day
Services
Max. price per day
Activities
OS: On-site
5: Less than 10 km
Beaucanton, Corporation plage et }}} 544 ••© Â ¶ T – $30OS: ll j
camping Lac Pajegasque ß # i Ë
$30 M@t
1, chemin du Lac Pajegasque
In season: 819 941-2666 / off season: 819 941-2471
[email protected]
Chapais, Camping Opémiska
}}}109 50 • • # T ß ©
6 $21OS: tM@lj
107, chemin du Lac Opémiska ¶ Âv
$28 5: Y
418 745-3428
www.campingopemiska.com
Chibougamau, Éco-Camping de Chibougamau
}42 15 • •Â T ß ª 22 $20OS: tl j äb
512, route 167 Sud o i $385: Yg
In season: 418 748-7276 / off season: 418 748-4441
[email protected] / www.faunenord.org
}27 – • •Â i ©Ë
6$31.50
OS: @OMb
SÉPAQ, Réserve faunique des $43.50
Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-et-Waconichi
1584, route 167 Nord
418 748-7748 / Toll free: 1 800 665-6527
Chibougamau, Camping de la Baie Pénicouane
}}}77 70 • •Â T ß i 2 $20OS: j &
900, boul. Quévillon # Ë o $255: ä M
In season: 819 755-3363 / off-season: 819 755-4826
[email protected] / www.lebel-sur-quevillon.com
Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Camping municipal
Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional
}}} 85 60 •• ß © # Â –
$22 OS: &Yt@
Government, Camping du lac Matagami i «ª v $265: ä M
Km 38, route de la Baie-James
[email protected]
www.guidecamping.ca /baiejames
Radisson, Camping Radisson
}}40 25 • •ß Â #
4 $35OS: ÿ&l j
198, rue Jolliet « i $355: Y
[email protected]
112
Tourist homes (cottages, condos)
Prices given are only guidelines and do not include taxes. Please
contact the establishment for additional information in all cases.
The information is provided by the establishment operator, which
is responsible for the validity of the information in these tables.
Member of a chain
Number of units
Accomo. capacity
Rates
Max. price for least expensive room
Max. price for most expensive room
Activities
OS : On-site
Services
5: Less than 10 km
}}} 3 5$200æ « E
C ß Ö OS: nÎ@läY
62, 63, 131, chemin du Lac Opémiska to 11 $440
418 745-3419
[email protected]
www.chaletsopemiska.com
Chapais, Chalets Opémiska } 11 2 to 4 $160 © 1 3
SÉPAQ, Réserve faunique des $461 2«i
Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-et-Waconichi,
1584, route 167 Nord
418 748-7748 / sans frais : 1 800 665-6527
pub. p. 57
Chibougamau, Chalets Waconichi Ö
OS: @Mÿ ‰
Matagami, Écolodge Lac Matagami Á 5 5 à 50 $
42, chemin du lac Matagami 25
819 739-8231
[email protected]
www.ecolodgelacmatagami.ca
— ì v « • ¢ L OS: 7Ãg‰nÿ
© Ë “ q F .
@Îlä/
6 s E ›
&ór
}} 8 2 to 8 $120
C.P. 309 $450
819 638-9177 / 514-907-4545
[email protected] / www.locationradisson.com
Ö ß 3
C
2 E
5: r
SÉPAQ Lac Waconichi © Tourisme Baie-James
Radisson, Location Radisson Need help? See the instructions for using the guide: page 2 to 5. (blue section)
113
Outfitters
Fishing:
Species caught:
Lake (L), Reservoir (K), River (R), large river (F)
Pike (A), Spekled trout (B), Walleye (C), Grey trout-touladi (D), Perch (E), Sturgeon (F), Char (G), Atlantic salmon (H)
Hunting:
Crossbow/bow (A), Firearm (F), Black powder rifle (P), Hunting dog (C)
Hunted species: Hare (A), Partridge (B), Caribou (C), Moose (D), Canada goose (E), Black bear (F), Ptarmigan (G)
Lodging:
Inn (A), Houseboat (B), Cottage(C), Camp (K))
Accommodation: V Cold water W Hot water f Indoor toilet g Indoor shower 2 Indoor bathroom (toilet and/or bath/shower) 1 Private outdoor
bathroom (toilet and/or bath/shower) 5 Comfort station d Outhouse c Automatic heating system b Wood heating system a Electric lighting system
Z Propane lighting system
}
0
= Classification, see page 107
= Seasonal establisment
Member of FPQ
Fishing
Lodging
Amenities Location; GPS
Species Hunting
Species
Services
Activities
0
Camp de pêche Pomerleau
• LA-B-C-D CV W
Lac Chibougamau
348, Chemin du lac Chibougamau Nord
K 2 5
ba
Chibougamau
418 748-1205 or 418 770-5453
[email protected]
www.pourvoirie-pomerleau.com
ÂËM lÿ À@
E E
ä&
•L A-B-D A B-C-GCV W
Réservoir Laforge 1 ª E À
73, rue Iberville, Radisson R
F 2 5 Latitude : W 72º 28’
1 888 449-2880 K
P c a Longitude : N 54º 17’
[email protected]
www.kiskimaastakin.com
Kiskimaastakin Camps
0 Broadback Outfitter 203, Opemiska Meskino
Ouje-Bougoumou
418 224-1349
[email protected]
www.broadback.ca
L
A-B-C C
R
0 Cargair Outfitter • L A-B-D
(Open May to October) R
1788, boul. Lafontaine
Rivière-Rouge
1 800 371-2371
[email protected]
www.pourvoiriecargair.com
A
C-G A F
K
P
Lac Assinica and
Rivière Broadback
V WLG-4
2 c 72, 5534.5 ;
a
56, 0206.5
J.C. Bou Outfitter LA-B-C-DF B-C-F CV W
Lac Chibougamau
Route 167, KM 211 2 5
ca
Chibougamau
418 748-2720
[email protected]
www.idlogic.com/jcbou L ¶E ÿ
E E T ¶
114
ÿ@
æ Ë M & À @
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• L A-B-C-DA C-F-G A V W
Rivière la Grande Ë ï 6
Route Transtaïga, KM 358 K
F
C 2 5 72, 5263 ; s s E T
Poularies
RPK
c a 53, 4653
¶E
339-6202
1 866 [email protected]
www.pourvoiriemirage.com
n
À Ã ‰ nÿ
@ Î ä/
&ór
Outfitters
Member of FPQ
Fishing
Lodging
Species Hunting
Amenities Location; GPS
Species
Services
Activities
0
Radisson LG-2 Outfitter
• KA-B-C-DF C-G C g dRéservoir
Â M c 7 n ÿ
Î&ór
0
SÉPAQ, Réserves fauniques Assinica et LA-B-C-D CV W
des Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-et-Waconichi
f5
M
7 ÿ‰Ï
Osprey Excursions
• LA-B-C-D
30, Montée des Bouleaux
St-Constant
450 632-3622
[email protected]
www.osprey.qc.ca c E
ÿ
49, rue Iberville R
Robert-Bourassa ï
Radisson
819 638-5400 / 1 877 638-5400
[email protected]
www.pourvoirie-radisson-lg2.com
Accueil Rupert, 1584, Route 167 Nord
b Z
Chibougamau
418 748-7748 / 1 888 665-6527
[email protected]
pub. p. 59
www.sepaq.com AV 5
C b Z
Lac Mistassini
© Mirage Adventure
0
115
Roadside rest areas and camgrounds rustic
l Beach M Boat ramp @ Fishing & Hiking q Lookout T Public phone
Location
Access road
Rest area
Picnic tables
Camping area
Services
Halte routière de la rivière Bell
Km 2
•
•
Kiosque d’information touristique
Km 6
•
•
Rivière Waswanipi
Km 38
Lac Goéland
Km 48
Rivière Waswanipi (accès lac Olga)
Km 48
•
•
Lac Ouescapis
Km 80
•
•
Km 135
•
•
Lac Rodayer
Km 189
•
Rivière Broadback
Km 232
•
•
Route de Wasgakanish
Km 237
•
•
Rivière de Rupert
Km 257
•
Cascades Rupert
Km 257
•
•
Halte des Passages
Km 274
•
•
Lac Mirabelli
Km 323
•
Relais routier
Km 381
•
Rivière Eastmain
Km 395
•
•
Halte Sarcelle
Km 396
•
•
•
Rivière Opinaca
Km 411
•
•
Chaîne de Lacs
Km 440
•
•
Vieux Comptoir
Km 464
•
Lac du Vieux Comptoir
Km 467
•
•
Lac Miron
Km 503
•
•
Wemindji
Km 518
•
Lac Yasinski
Km 542
•
•
Rivière Castor
Km 561
•
•
Lac Duncan
Km 574
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
T
@M
@M
@M
@M
@l
@q&
@M
@q&
@M
@MT
@q&
qM
@q
@M
@q
q&
@M
@q
@
@M
Route Transtaïga
Lac Sakami
Km 56 •
Exutoire Sakami
Km 59
•
•
Réservoir Robert-Bourassa
Km 62
•
•
Rivière Pontois
Km 203
•
•
•
@M
@
@M
@Mq
Route du Nord
Halte Cheniapiscau
Km 132
Lac Mesgouez
Km 221
•
•
Halte Rivière Rupert
Km 238
•
•
Halte Collines Lescar
Km 286
•
•
Lac Boisrobert
Km 381
•
•
q
M@
@q
@q
M@
109 Highway
Halte des Collines Cartwright
Km 157
•
•
Halte de Douay
Km 167
•
•
Lac Waswanipi
Km 190
q
113 Highway
•
•
@M
All the sites listed above have portable toilets. You can stay at most municipal sites.
116
117
Services
Convenience stores and gas stations
Chibougamau
Oujé-Bougoumou
Chisasibi
Radisson
Dépanneur Super Sonic
990, 3e Rue
Chibougamau, QC G8P 1R7
418 748-2369
Chisasibimi Bar
59, Fort George
Chisasibi, QC J0M 1E0
819 855-2622
Pimiiukimikew Gas
6, Chisasibi Road
819 855-2427
Eastmain
Stajune Garage & Gas Bar
147, Shabow Road
Eastmain, QC J0M 1W0
819 977-2141
Mistissini
Pimi-Plus Esso
284, Queen Street
Mistissini, QC G0W 1C0
418 923-2727
Chiiwetin Gas Crevier
200, Main Street
Mistissini, QC G0W 1C0
418 923-2949
Nemaska
Nemaska Gas Bar
26, Chismtaastihw Street
Nemaska, QC J0Y 3B0
819 673-2559
Oujé Casey’s Gas Depanneur
110, Ouje-Bougoumou Meskino
Oujé-Bougoumou, QC G0W 3C0
418 745-3211
Distribution Radis-Nord Inc.
57, avenue Des Groseilliers
Radisson, QC J0Y 2X0
819 638-7255
Val d’Or
Petronor
1401, chemin Sullivan, C.P. 310
Val d’Or, QC J9P 4P4
819 824-5505
www.petronor.ca
Waskaganish
Trans-Arctic Gas Station
22, Smokey Hill
Waskaganish, QC J0M 1R0
819 895-8900
Waswanipi
Bedabin Gas Esso
7, Poplar Street
Waswanipi, QC J0Y 3C0
819 753-2249
Wemindji
Sibi Gas Station
65, Beaver Road
Wemindji, QC J0M 1L0
819 978-3508
Mechanics
Mécanique Sports plus
942, 3e rue
Chibougamau, QC G8P 1R6
418 748-1155
[email protected]
© Mathieu Dupuis
118
Local and regional development centre
Centre d’entrepreneurship
nordique
119, 5e avenue, suite 3
Chibougamau
[email protected]
www.entrepreneurshipnordique.ca
économique de Chapais
145, boul. Springer, C.P. 128
Chapais QC G0W 1H0
418 745-2355
[email protected]
économique de V.V.B.
2709, boul. McDuff, local B
Beaucanton, QC J0Z 1H0
819 941-2180
[email protected]
Développement Chibougamau
600, 3e Rue, bureau 2
Chibougamau, QC G8P 1P1
418 748-6060
www.developpementchibougamau.org
Gens d’affaires L.S.Q.
223, place Quévillon
Lebel-sur-Quévillon, QC J0Y 1X0
819 755-2584
[email protected]
www.galsq.com
Eeyou Economic Group
58, rue Pine
Waswanipi, QC J0Y 3C0
819 753-2560
S.A.D.C. Chibougamau-Chapais
Chibougamau, QC G8P 1P1
418 748-6477
[email protected]
www.sadccc.ca
S.A.D.C de Matagami
180, place du commerce, C.P. 910
Matagami, QC J0Y 2A0
819 739-2155
www.sadcdematagami.qc.ca
Société de développement
commercial de Matagami
C.P. 239
Matagami, QC J0Y 2A0
819 739-2770
économique de Lebel-sur-Quévillon
555, place Quévillon, C.P. 670
Lebel-sur-Quévillon, QC J0Y 1X0
819 755-4225
[email protected] / www.sdelsq.com
de la Baie-James
Chibougamau, QC G8P 1N7
418 748-7777
www.sdbj.gouv.qc.ca
Tourism
Steven Pash, Tourism consultant
4, rue Cook
613 830-7129
[email protected]
Table touristique
de la Vallée de la Turgeon
3897, chemin de l’Église, local 20
Villebois, QC J0Z 3V0
819 941-2034
[email protected]
Tourisme Amos-Harricana
892, route 111 Est
Amos, QC J9T 2K4
819 727-1242
[email protected]
www.ville.amos.qc.ca/tourisme
119
Services
pub.
p. 59
Teaching institutions
Graphic design
Centre de formation professionnelle
de la Baie-James
265, rue Lanctôt
Chibougamau, QC G8P 1C1
418 748-7621
www.cfpbj.ca
Commission scolaire Crie
203, Main Street
Mistissini, Qc G0W 1C0
1-866-999-2764
www.cscree.qc.ca
Graph Cat
45, 5e Rue, C.P. 868
Chapais, QC G0W 1H0
418 770-8152
[email protected]
Video productions
Le Pêcheur du Nord
Chapais, 418 637-8021
[email protected]
www.lepecheurdunord.com
Commission scolaire
de la Baie-James
596, 4e Rue
Chibougamau, QC G8P 1S3
418 748-7621
www.csbj.qc.ca
Miscellaneous
pub.
p. 64
Services aux entreprises
et aux collectivités
162, avenue Lafontaine
Chibougamau, QC G8P 2H9
418 748-3903
www.seccof.com
French
English
Hydro-Québec
511, route 167 Sud, C.P. 100
Chibougamau, QC G8P 2K5
418 748-8200
Cree
Bonjour HelloKwey
Bienvenue
Welcome
Wachiya
Merci
Thank you
Chiniskumitin
Au revoir
Goodbye
Wachiya
Je m’appelle
My name is
...nitisinikaasun
Comment allez-vous ?
How are you?
Taan aaihtiyin?
120
Geese © Réal Lavigne
121
Practical information
Emergency
911, 310-4141 or *4141 (a cell)
Québec Poison Control Centre
1 800 463-5060
Health info line
811
Health Care Centres and Social Services
Chapais
Chibougamau
Chisasibi
Eastmain
Matagami
Mistissini
Nemaska
418 745-2591
418 748-6435
819 855-2844
819 977-0241
819 755-4881
819 739-2515
418 923-3376
819 673-2511
Oujé-Bougoumou
Radisson
Villebois-Valcanton
Waskaganish
Waswanipi
Wemindji
Whapmagoostui
Hydro-Québec Health Care Centre (medical care)
Brisay
819 853-7300 #7311 LG3
LA1
819 853-7300 #7212 LG4
418 745-3901
819 638-8991
819 941-3007
819 895-8833
819 753-2511
819 978-0225
819 929-9110
819 638-2950 #2815
819 854-6100 #6119
Health care services offered by Hydro-Québec are not covered by the Régie de l’assurance-maladie
du Québec. Make sure you take out complementary insurance before leaving!
Regulations
Winter driving: From December 15 to March 15, all taxis and passenger vehicles registered in Québec
must be equipped with winter tires. This requirement also applies to rental passenger vehicles in Québec.
Cell phone: Use of a hand-held cell phone that does not have a “hands-free” function is prohibited
while driving.
Road network conditions
Weather
122
511 or www.Québec511.info
www.weather.ec.gc.ca
Forest Fire Protection Society (SOPFEU)
1 800 463-3389
Reporting poachers
1 800 463 2191
Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune
418 748-7744
819 855-2449
819 977-2478
819 755-4603
819 739-2111
418 923-4006
819 672-2200 poste 3002
Oujé-Bougoumou (Seasonal)
Radisson
Waskaganish (Seasonal)
Waswanipi (Seasonal)
Whapmagoostui
Wemindji (Seasonal)
418 745-4014
819 638-8305
819 895-5006
819 753-4007
819 929-3863
819 978-3465
© Mathieu Dupuis
Chibougamau
Chisasibi
Eastmain
Matagami
Mistissini (Seasonal)
Nemiscau
LG4 sector
123
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. This expression makes a lot of sense when travelling over
immense unfamiliar territories. Every adventure requires serious preparation. Espescially if you plan on travelling
on the Route du Nord and the Transtaïga. To ensure the success of your stay and avoid unexpected mishaps,
we suggest you put into practice the following advice:
• Have your vehicle inspected. Make sure it is in
good condition.
• When leaving a town, fill up on gas.
• Inform a relative or a friend or someone of your
schedule and itinerary.
• Make sure you have in your possession road
maps and other necessary maps for your activities
(such as topographical maps and your tourist
guide).
• Obtain travel insurance.
• Have in your possession all the official papers
needed to practice your activity (permits, fishing
or hunting permits, registrations, etc.).
• Complete your documentation by contacting the
various permanent and seasonal Tourist
Information Centre of the region.
Memory jogger
Safety first:
❑ Matches, flashlights, sweaters
❑ Sunglasses
❑ Knife or small axe
❑ Basic tool box
❑ First aid kit
❑ Compass
❑ Spare wheel “a real one”
if you take gravel roads
❑ Windshield washer fluid, motor oil
❑ Garbage bags
❑ Spare clothes and blanket
❑ Water, beverages and snack
❑ Hazard warning lights
❑ Driver, hunting,
fishing license
❑ Cash
❑ Rope and string
❑ Medicine (if necessary)
❑ Territory maps
❑ Camera
❑ Sun protection
❑ Repellent for stinging insects
Summer:
❑ Cap or hat
Winter:
❑ Antifreeze for gas
❑ Traction aid
❑ Antifreeze for radiator
❑ Car lock de-icer
❑ Shovel
124
❑ Really warm clothes,
Bobble hat, mittens
wool socks, etc.
Alphabetical Index
A
Mistissini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Nemaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Oujé-Bougoumou. . . . . . . . . . . 72
Waskaganish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Waswanipi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Wemindji. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Whapmagoostui. . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Cross country skiing. . . . . . . . . . 101
Cultural tours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Culture and heritage. . . . . . . . . . 81
Cycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Aanischaaukamikw
– Cree Cultural Institute. . . . . . 91
Aboriginal experience. . . . . . . . . 89
Access for persons
with impaired mobility. . . . . . . . 2
Accommodation. . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Advertising. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54, 128
Aerotourism. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Airplanes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Airports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
De la Grande Rivière. . . . . . . . 29 D
De la Grande 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Desmaraisville. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
De Némiscau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Distances table. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Arts and crafts . . . . . 32, 89, 90, 91
E
Association, corporation. . . . . . 119
Astronomy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Eastmain. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
ATVs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Eeyou Istche James Bay
Government Regional . . . . . . . 16
B
Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Baie Pénicouane. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Excursions / Adventures. . . . . . . . 93
Beaches... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76, 94
F
Beaucanton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Bed & Breakfast. . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Family activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Bike paths. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Festivals (see events) . . . . . . . . . . 84
Boat launching ramps
Fishing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45, 84, 102
Baie Pénicouane. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Footpaths (see hiking). . . . . . . . . 98
Lac Boisrobert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Lac Duncan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 G
Lac Matagami
Campground . . . . . . . . . 20, 106 Gas stations.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Lac Mesgouez . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 General information . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Lac Mirabelli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Geomorphological sites. . . . . . . . 41
Lac Miron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Golf. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Lac Opémiska . . . . . . . . . . . 84, 94 Graphic design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Lac Ouescapis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Guided visits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Lac Rodayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Lac Sakami. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Rivière de Pontois. . . . . . . . . . . 36
Rivière Rupert . . . . . . . . . . 23, 49
Rivère Waswanipi . . . . . . . . . . 20
String of Lakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Bowling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Bus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
C
Campgrounds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Canoeing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Caribou hunting. . . . . . . . . 102,114
Chapais. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73, 74
Chibougamau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Chisasibi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Classification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Climate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Convenience stores . . . . . . . . . . 118
Cottages (see tourist homes). . . 113
Covered bridges. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Cree communities
Chisasibi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Eastmain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
H
Handicrafts and
souvenirshops. . . . 32, 89, 90, 91
Health Centres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Highway 113. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Hiking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Hotels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
How to use this guide. . . . . . . . . . 2
Hunting and fishing. . . . . . . . . . 102
Hunting and fishing shops . . . . 103
Hunting areas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Hydro power . . . . . . . . . 11, 12, 30,
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31, 35, 88
I
Île de Fort-George . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Inns (see hotels). . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Interpretation Center . . . . . . . . . 30
J
L
Lacs
Albanel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Aux Dorés . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Boisrobert. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Champion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Chibougamau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Cladonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Cummings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Du Vieux comptoir. . . . . . . . . . 27
Duncan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Gilman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Goéland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Imbeau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81, 88
Matagami . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18, 94
Mesgouez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Mirabelli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Miron. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Mistassini. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Olga. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19, 20
Opémiska. . . . . . . . . . . 72, 73, 94
Ouescapis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Pajégasque . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82, 94
Paradis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Quévillon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78, 94
Regneault . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Rodayer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Sakami. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Samuel-Bédard. . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Waconichi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Yasinski. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
La Grande-1 Generating
station. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Lebel-sur-Quévillon . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Local and regional
development Centre. . . . . . . . 119
M
Maps
Road access to the region . . . . . 3
Route de la Baie-James . . . . . . 13
Route du Nord . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Route Transtaïga. . . . . . . . . . . 35
Highway 113. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Vallée de la Turgeon . . . . . . . . 80
Matagami . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18, 19
Mechanic. . . . . . . . . . . 92, 103, 118
Memory Jogger . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
et de la Faune. . . . . . . . . 102, 123
Miquelon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Mistissini. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Mont Cummings . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Mont Laurier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Mont Springer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Motels (see hotels). . . . . . . . . . . 110
Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
N
James Bay and Northern
Natives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Québec Agreement . . . . . . . . . 10 Nature and outdoor activities. . . 92
125
Alphabetical Index
Syllabic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Symbols used in this guide . . . . . . 2
T
Teaching institutions. . . . . . . . . 120
Topographical maps . . . . . . . . . 103
Tourism. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Tourisme Québec. . . . . . . . . . 5, 106
Tourist homes
(cottages and condos) . . . . . . 113
Tourist information. . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Tourist road signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Transportation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
U
Useful information. . . . . . . . . . . 122
V
Val Paradis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Vallée de la Turgeon. . . . . . . . . . 80
Villebois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
W
Walking trails (hiking). . . . . . . . . 98
Waskaganish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Waswanipi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Weather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Wemindji . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Whapmagoostui . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Wildlife and flora . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 8
Wildlife observation
and interpretation . . . . . . . . . . 94
Winter Fun. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
© Neils K. Jensen
Nautical circuit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94 Rivières
Nemaska. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Au castor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Bell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
O
Bras de Rupert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Obalski Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41, 94 Broadback. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21, 49
Oujé-Bougoumou. . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Brock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Outfitters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Chibougamau. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Corvette. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
P
De Pontois. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Du Vieux Comptoir. . . . . . . . . . 26
Pavillon Obalski Inmet. . . . . . . . . 43
Eastmain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Permits
(fishing and hunting). . . 102-103 Jolicoeur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Pictograms (accommodation). . . 108 Nottaway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20, 44
Poaching. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102, 122 Opinaca. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Poison control centre. . . . . . . . . 122 Pontax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Portrait of the region . . . . . . . . . . 6 Rupert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23, 49
Practical information. . . . . . . . . 122 Waswanipi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Road access to the region. . . . . . . 3
Road conditions. . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
R
Roadside rest areas
Radisson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
and campgrounds rustic. . . . . 116
Regional Historical Society
Robert-Bourassa
of Chibougamau. . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Generating Facility. . . . . . . . . . 31
Religious buildings. . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Route de la Baie-James . . . . . 13, 15
Rentals
Route du Nord. . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 39
Bikes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Route Transtaïga . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Canoes . . . . . . . . . . . . 78, 81, 82
Cottages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
S
Kayaks. . . . . . . . . . . . . 78, 81, 82
Pedal-boat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 SEPAQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Snowmobiles. . . . . . 92, 103, 118 Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Skiing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43,
Réserves fauniques
Snowmobile . . . . . . . . . . . . 100, 101
Assinica et des Lacs-AlbanelMistassini et Waconichi . . . 45, 47 Snowmobile clubs . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Réservoir Robert Bourassa. . . . . . 35 Snowmobile excursions. . . . . . . 100
Restaurants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Snowmobile trail map. . . . . . . . 100
Rest stop KM 381. . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 SOPFEU. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Riding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 Souvenirs. . . . . . . . . . 32, 89, 90, 91
Odeyak – Cultural Institute
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Alphabetical Index
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
PARTNERS
Tourisme Québec and
ATR associées du Québec
PROJECT MANAGER
Johanne T. Godin
GRAPHIC ADAPTER, LAYOUT
Service d’infographie Lucie Lévesque-Pageau
COLLABORATION
John Boudrias and Équipe Tourisme Baie-James
PRINTING
Solisco
TRANSLATION
Joe Villaverde
COVER PAGE (PICTURE)
Gaston Cooper
© Louise Abbott
PRODUCTION TEAMS
Tourisme Baie-James
Eeyou Istchee Tourism
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Le Grand Nord du Québec
NUNAVIK
Quebec's Far North
kNF4
L'aventure à l'état pur en compagnie des Inuit
Let the Inuit take you on the adventure of a lifetime
Pour une copie gratuite du Guide touristique officiel du Nunavik :
For a free copy of the Nunavik Official Tourist Guide:
Association touristique du Nunavik
Nunavik Tourism Association
819-964-2876 / 1-855- NUNAVIK
www.nunavik-tourism.com
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