If you’re heading to Quebec and considering a quick yet memorable escape into nature and local highlights, the City tour and hiking to the Canyon and Waterfall in the Park might just be worth your time. Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, this experience promises a blend of scenic drives, cultural insights, and easy outdoor adventures—all wrapped up in about two and a half hours.
What really draws us in is the fact that it’s a private tour, so your group gets a more personalized touch, plus it’s conveniently located just a short walk from the port. We especially like the combination of exploring Saguenay’s town highlights with the chance to walk through its breathtaking natural landscapes.
One thing to keep in mind is that this tour’s price, roughly $89 per person, offers good value for the amount of scenery and personalized attention you get. However, it’s a shorter outing, so if you’re after a full-day adventure or deep dives into history, this might feel a bit light.
This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, gentle hikes, and want a snapshot of Saguenay’s natural beauty without too much hassle or complex planning. If you’re traveling with a group that appreciates a mix of culture and nature, or simply want to see one of Quebec’s most impressive landscapes, it’s a solid pick.
Key Points
- Private, personalized experience with just your group
- Accessible, easy hike suitable for most fitness levels
- Beautiful scenery including waterfalls, canyons, and fjord views
- Knowledgeable guides who share interesting insights
- Convenient location just minutes from the port
- Great value for the price given the inclusion of transportation and entry fees
What’s Included and What’s Not
This tour is designed to be straightforward. For $89.08, you get a private vehicle, a professional driver, and entry to Bec-Scie Park, which covers your outdoor exploration and waterfall visit. The guide’s insights seem to be a highlight, as reviews praise their engaging stories and local knowledge.
Some things to consider—alcoholic beverages are not included**, and you’ll want to bring your own if you plan to toast after the tour. Also, the cost doesn’t include extra expenses outside the tour, so if you want souvenirs or additional snacks, that’s on you.
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The Itinerary: A Closer Look
Stop 1: La Pyramide des Ha! Ha!
Your tour kicks off at La Pyramide des Ha! Ha!, a practical but interesting first stop. It’s in La Baie, a historically significant town area that once thrived on industry. Here, you’ll get a quick look at the workman’s road and the rich heritage of the high-end neighborhoods from the now-defunct Consolidated Bathurst paper industry.
While this stop is brief—just 15 minutes—it offers a peek into Saguenay’s past. Reviewers mention that it’s a good starting point to set context, especially if you’re into local history or industrial heritage.
Stop 2: Quai Laurier-Simard
Next, you’ll cross over to Quai Laurier-Simard for a 10-minute stop. The highlight here is spotting white geese and enjoying sweeping views of the Saguenay Fjord. It’s the perfect spot for some quick photos and to soak in the natural beauty.
This stop’s simplicity is its strength—short, sweet, and with stunning vistas that make you appreciate Quebec’s rugged coastlines. It’s a good reminder that sometimes the simplest viewpoints are the most memorable.
Stop 3: Bec-Scie Outdoor Center and Nature Walk
The real star of the tour is the outdoor segment—1 hour 30 minutes exploring Bec-Scie Park, just a short 15-minute drive from the port. This is where you’ll follow trails along the Rivière-à-Mars canyon, crossing footbridges and getting close to waterfalls.
Expect to get misted by waterfalls and enjoy the ice-carved landscape that makes this area so unique. Reviewers consistently rave about the stunning scenery and the knowledgeable guide who keeps things engaging. One reviewer called the hike “not too challenging but certainly not flat,” which makes it accessible for most.
Stop 4: Return to the Port
The tour wraps up with a smooth drive back to the port of call, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the landscapes and maybe chat about what surprised you most.
The Experience: What You’ll Actually Feel
The beauty of this tour lies in its balance—you’ll get a taste of Saguenay’s cultural spots, like La Pyramide, combined with breathtaking natural scenery. Guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, which enhances the experience—especially if you love learning about local sights while enjoying a relaxed walk.
The waterfalls and canyon are the main attractions, and many reviews highlight how impressive the scenery is. One traveler shared that the guide Marie kept everyone laughing, making the experience both fun and informative. Others appreciated the easy pace that still offered enough challenge to keep things interesting without being exhausting.
The scenery during the drive and walk is often described as “beautiful” and “a great way to see Saguenay without committing to a full-day excursion.” It’s also worth noting that the weather can influence the experience—good weather will make waterfalls more vibrant and views clearer.
Practicalities and Tips
While this is a well-rounded tour, here are a few practical notes. The cost is reasonable for what you get, especially considering transportation, a guide, and park entry are included. It’s a shorter experience, so if you’re craving a comprehensive exploration of Saguenay or fancy more intense hiking, you might want to look elsewhere.
The tour is suited for most travelers who are comfortable with a gentle hike and enjoy scenic drives. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but the easy nature of the trail suggests it could be suitable for older children or teens who are okay with walking outdoors.
Since it’s a private experience, you won’t be mixed with strangers, which allows for a more relaxed and tailored outing. Just be sure to dress for the weather since you’ll be outdoors and possibly getting close to waterfalls.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re craving stunning scenery combined with cultural insights, this tour is a good pick. It’s particularly suited for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a taste of Saguenay’s dramatic landscapes without a full-day commitment.
It’s also a good choice if you prefer a personalized experience with a friendly guide who keeps things engaging. The tour’s relaxed pace makes it accessible, even if you’re not an avid hiker. However, if your idea of adventure includes more challenging trails or historical deep dives, you might want to explore other options.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?
This private city tour and waterfall hike offers a well-rounded snapshot of Saguenay, combining scenic beauty with cultural tidbits. It’s a value-for-money experience that appeals to travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude are often praised, making this more than just a sightseeing drive. Instead, it becomes an opportunity to connect with the landscape and local history in a relaxed setting. The scenery, especially at the waterfalls and canyon, is genuinely stunning and well worth the short hike.
This tour suits those who enjoy easy outdoor activities, scenic drives, and personalized service. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time who still want a meaningful taste of what Saguenay has to offer.
If you’re after a relaxed, scenic experience with knowledgeable guides and beautiful views, this outing is definitely worth considering.
City tour and hiking to the Canyon and Waterfall in the Park
“Great history lesson and a beautiful hike from the waterfalls. Marie is the best tour guide, very engaging and had us laughing all the way!”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the hike is described as “not too challenging” and suitable for most fitness levels, so older children or teens who enjoy outdoor walks should be fine.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including driving, sightseeing, and the hike.
What’s included in the price?
You get a private vehicle, a professional driver, and entry to Bec-Scie Park. The tour also features a knowledgeable guide.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.
What should I wear?
Since you’ll be outdoors and possibly near waterfalls, dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear suitable for walking.
Is this tour only offered in good weather?
Yes, if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 900 Rue Mars, La Baie, QC, just a short walk from the cruise port.
If you’re seeking a laid-back, scenic escape with a knowledgeable guide, this tour could be just what you need to enjoy Saguenay’s natural charm without the fuss.