Running along the banks of the majestic Wahsipekuk (St. Lawrence River), Putep 't-awt ""the Beluga Trail"" is a 2 km discovery trail on the western side of Gros-Cacouna mountain. A gentle climb to the summit provides access to observation lookouts offering exceptional views of the Wahsipekuk and St. Lawrence rivers.
The trail is embellished with cultural interpretation panels and digital content, immersing you in a rich educational adventure that blends Wolastoqey and local culture. The highlight of Putep 't-awt is its land-based beluga whale observatory at the summit. The highlight of Putep 't-awt is its land-based beluga whale observatory at the summit. In keeping with Wolastoqiyik values, this infrastructure will enable you to observe belugas without disturbing them.
Come and meet our interpreter-guides, who will take you through the star activity "Window on the Belugas", which uses various technological means to immerse you in the fascinating world of marine mammals. Guaranteed to amaze!
Adult
ages 13 to 6412.00$
Senior
65 and over10.00$
Youth
6 to 12 years8.00$
Child
5 years and underFree
Family group
2 adults and 2 children28.00$
Adult commercial group
10 and more10.00$
Youth commercial group
7.00$
Schedule :
8:30 am / 10:00 am / 12:00 pm / 1:30 pm / 3:00 pm / 4:00 pm
***Online booking required
High season
June 21 to September 2, 2024
Open every day, 7 days/7
Low season
September and October: groups (10 people or more) by prior arrangement
Why not start your immersive experience by climbing aboard our electric shuttle? Accompanied by a member of our team, you’ll cross the marsh at the ornithological site, one of the discovery areas of Kiskotuk Coastal Park. Departures are from the Matuweskewin boutique at 1001, rue du Patrimoine in Cacouna. 8:30 am / 10:00 am / 12:00 pm / 1:30 pm / 3:00 pm / 16:00 pm (5 $ round-trip)
From the Matuweskewin boutique at 1001, rue du Patrimoine in Cacouna, head east for 1.7 km on Route 132, until you see the sign for Parc Côtier Kiskotuk (part of the Site ornithologique du marais de Gros-Cacouna of the Baie-de-L’Isle-Verte National Wildlife Area). Take Route de l’Île on the north side of Route 132. After 400 m on route de l’Île, at the fork in the road, keep left for 900 m until you reach the large parking lot at the end of route de l’Île. You’ll then have to walk about 1.4 km on the Savane trail to reach the Putep ‘t-awt trailhead at the foot of the mountain
To ensure that the “Window on Belugas” activity runs smoothly for everyone, dogs are not allowed inside the observatory, with the exception of service dogs. However, dogs on leashes are permitted on the trails. It is the owner’s responsibility to pick up after their dog and dispose of the bag in a garbage can. A mat has been installed to enable dogs to access the walkway on the roof of the observatory.
The interpretation activity offered at the Putep ‘t-awt observatory is for the whole family. Young and old alike will marvel at this immersive experience at the heart of the belugas’ secret life.
The Putep ‘t-awt discovery trail features interpretation panels and fun games for children. Please note that part of the trail borders the cliff. Some areas are not suitable for very young children. Parental supervision is essential.
The trailhead provides stroller access to the first lookout and to the observatory for the Beluga Window activity. However, an all-terrain stroller is recommended. However, to enter the observatory or access the rooftop terrace, you’ll need to climb a few steps.
To complete the entire 2 km loop trail, the use of a stroller is not recommended, due to the natural aspect of the trail and the presence of steps in some places.
The trailhead provides wheelchair access with assistance to the first lookout. The latter has been designed to accommodate a group of 10 to 20 people with reduced mobility (by reservation for an interpretation activity), for a breathtaking view of the St. Lawrence.
The path leading to the observatory for the Window on Belugas activity is fairly wide and made of compacted stone dust, but has a steep incline. To enter the observatory or access the roof terrace, you have to climb a few steps. The use of a wheelchair is therefore not recommended. To cover the entire 2 km loop, the path is not suitable for people with reduced mobility or wheelchairs.
The Window on Belugas activity takes place even if it rains, as the observatory is a covered area protected from the elements. We still suggest that you bring a raincoat to get to the observatory and to walk along the footpaths. Umbrellas are not recommended in strong winds.
If for technical reasons, or in the event of a violent storm, the activity has to be cancelled, you will be informed and reimbursed. Thank you for your understanding !