Saguenay Fjord

From Quebec City, we took a quiet and scenic route north through Jacques Cartier National Park, even as heavy traffic funneled into the city for the first day of school. After a quick grocery stop in the town of Saguenay, we followed the Saguenay River eastward to Riviere-Eternite and Saguenay Fjord National Park.

Once we set up camp, we opted for a hike up the mountain for a view of the fjord. Sure, it was only 1.6 kilometers......but it was pretty much straight UP, complete with switchbacks which made the distance longer. Some huffing, puffing and a few water breaks later, we reached the scenic overlook for a few minutes of well-earned panorama.....before heading back down.

After a lovely night under starry skies, we continued east to catch the boat at Saint-Simeon, which would ferry us across the St. Lawrence to Riviere-du-Loup, saving a four-hour drive back down to Quebec City to the last bridge across the river. A playful pod of Beluga whales escorted us to the east bank, and on our way to New Brunswick.

Scenic drive through Jacques Cartier National Park

Saguenay Fjord

Looming cliffs

Stubborn trees!

Ominous rock theatre looming overhead

Just a few more steps....

....and a few more steps....

A view worth the effort

Awaiting the ferry at Saint-Simeon

Our chariot awaits!

Don't look back....at least not in anger

Beluga whales in the St. Lawrence River