Maria: Hiking, Winter and a Beach Monument

Maria combines seasonal hiking experiences with art, beach walks, and winter activities. When choosing the destination for a trip, you can plan around the season: the trail network of Parc régional du Mont-Saint-Joseph is a focus from June to November, while other activities take center stage in winter. There are also places for birdwatching and culture, giving your stay another dimension.

Hiking trails between the sea, mountains, and valleys

The trail network of Parc régional du Mont-Saint-Joseph covers 35 kilometres, offers trails for all skill levels, and connects Carleton-sur-Mer with Maria. Along the way, the trails open up views of the sea and mountains. They cross the ridges of the Monts Saint-Joseph and Carleton and pass through valleys with streams and waterfalls. The combination of ridges and valleys makes the landscape along the trails varied.

The trail network is open each year from June 1 to November 1. Opening dates and trail conditions may change; check current conditions before setting out. To reach the Grand-Saut hiking trail parking lot, drive from Route 132 in Maria via Route des Geais, Route du 2e Rang, Route Francis-Cyr, and Route du 3e Rang. There are 1.5 kilometres left to the parking lot on Route du 3e Rang. Check the route before you leave.

Art and history by the beach

The Monument de la plage des Goélands gives Maria a distinctive cultural landmark. It was erected in 1985 to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Maria parish and was created by artist Hugo Chouinard (1950–2003). Concrete, stainless steel, and aluminium are its main materials. Its form is also closely connected to the landscape: it was inspired by the view from the sea. The work thus brings together local history, art, and landscape.

The monument is at Maria’s roadside rest area, opposite 365 Boulevard Perron. The Galerie d'art Yves Gonthier is another cultural venue in the area. If you would like to visit the gallery, confirm current access arrangements directly with the operator. Parc du Vieux-Quai also offers various services and cultural activities; check for current programs before your visit.

Outdoor and winter activities

Parc municipal de la Pointe-Verte offers opportunities for recreation, birdwatching, and interpretation. Plage des Goélands is set up for picnics and walks. These two places offer different ways to spend time outdoors: one with a focus on birds and nature, the other with a picnic or a walk on the beach.

In winter, the Centre de plein air in Maria offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tobogganing. At Chalet des sports, visitors can go skating, play informal hockey, and go tobogganing. Check locally in advance to confirm the seasonal availability of these activities. Comparing the seasons can help with planning: the hiking trails have their own clearly defined season, while the winter program depends on the activities offered each season.

Plan a stay that suits you

When choosing a vacation rental in Maria, your travel dates and preferred activities can serve as a starting point. If hiking is your main focus, plan around the opening period of Parc régional du Mont-Saint-Joseph and the route to the Grand-Saut hiking trail parking lot. For a winter stay, options include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tobogganing, skating, or informal hockey, depending on your interests. If you would like to combine culture and nature, you can include Maria’s art and recreation venues in your plans and check current access or program information in advance.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Alexis-de-Matapédia, Métis-sur-Mer, Saint-François-D'assise, Carleton-Sur-Mer, L'Alverne

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