The Gaspé Peninsula (or Gaspésie, as Quebecers lovingly call it) is a playground for runners who crave big climbs, wild views and unforgettable challenges. If you haven’t planned a race-cation here yet, what are you waiting for? Put these on your must-do list: Ultra Trail Gaspésia, Ultra-Trail des Chic-Chocs (UTCC) and Ultra Trail Forillon. Each one will push your limits in the best way possible. And when your legs need a break, the region has more adventure than you can possibly squeeze into one trip.
There’s no better way to launch your summer than by tackling Ultra Trail Gaspésia. The course takes you across the peninsula’s best terrain—from winding coastal paths to steep forest climbs. It’s tough on the legs and tests your grit, but the payoff is huge: unforgettable views and a course that keeps you guessing from start to finish.
If you’re after a race that will test every part of you, Ultra-Trail des Chic-Chocs (UTCC) delivers. Nearly all of the course—98 per cent—is singletrack, winding through thick forest and straight up steep climbs. Distances run from a quick 4K to a monster 170K, and the views from the top make every tough section worth it. This is a race where you can prove what you’re made of.
As summer fades into fall, Ultra Trail Forillon is the perfect excuse to lace up and hit the trails in Forillon National Park. One of the best parts? The 45K and shorter courses have no time limit. You can push yourself—or take your time and soak it all in. From rocky cliffs to forested paths, every stretch of trail offers something worth showing up for. This isn’t just another race; it’s a chance to run in one of Canada’s most incredible places on your own terms.
The landscape: where sea, mountains and rivers collide
Gaspésie is built for runners who crave variety. One moment you’re grinding up steep mountain trails; the next, you’re flying along the coastline with the Gulf of St. Lawrence right beside you. It’s wild, raw, and constantly changing — exactly the kind of landscape that makes every run unforgettable.
Outdoor adventures: adventure in every form
For outdoor enthusiasts, Gaspésie is the ultimate adventure hub. With hiking trails weaving through national parks, the views are nothing short of spectacular. The Chic-Choc Mountains, with over 20 peaks above 1,000 metres, are ideal for runners pushing their limits. You can also tackle the International Appalachian Trail through Parc national de la Gaspésie, or explore the cliffs and waterfalls of Forillon National Park and Percé’s UNESCO Global Geopark.
If you love being on the water, Gaspésie has you covered. Kayak along the coast, take a cruise around Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island or enjoy whale watching in Forillon National Park. You might even spot seals along the shore. For the thrill-seekers, canyoning offers the perfect mix of climbing, jumping and swimming, making it an exciting way to cross-train for your next trail race.
Cultural heritage: a story told through generations
Take the day off running—but make it count. Gaspésie’s cultural sites demand your attention. This region isn’t just about stunning landscapes; its history runs just as deep. The Mi’kmaq have called this land home for thousands of years, followed by Basque and Breton fishermen, French settlers, Acadians and British Loyalists. Their influence is everywhere—in the traditions, the language and even the architecture.
You can’t leave without diving into this history. The Musée de la Gaspésie lays it all out, while the Micmac Interpretation Site of Gespeg gives you a firsthand look at the Indigenous history of the area. Explore historic lighthouses, walk through the Paspébiac National Historic Site and check out local craftsmanship on the Circuit des Arts de la Gaspésie. If you’re taking a break from the trails, this is how you should spend it.
Local flavours: fuelling up in Gaspésie
If you think Gaspésie is just about seafood, you’re doing it wrong. Yes, the lobster and crab are world-class, and yes, restaurants like La Maison du Pêcheur and Bistro-Bar le Brise-Bise serve it up with an ocean view. But this region’s food scene goes way beyond what’s on the menu.
You owe it to yourself to explore the local flavors. Artisanal cheeses, craft beverages, and creative culinary experiences make this a dream for food lovers. Head to the Gîte du Mont-Albert or the Centre d’Art Marcel Gagnon for meals that celebrate the region’s ingredients. After a day on the trails, refueling with real, locally sourced food isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Where to stay: rest and recover in nature
You need a place that does more than just offer a bed—you need a spot that matches the adventure. In Gaspésie, that means waking up to crashing waves or the stillness of the forest. Cozy inns and bed-and-breakfasts give you a warm welcome, while campgrounds and rustic lodges drop you right into nature.
If you’re here to train or recover between races, you’ll find accommodations designed for outdoor enthusiasts. Many spots cater specifically to runners, so you can rest, refuel and get ready for whatever’s next. Between the rugged trails and the region’s unbeatable hospitality, Gaspésie isn’t just a place to race—it’s an entire experience you’ll want to return to.
