The Marsh, a site to discover

Ornithology site

The site was created in 1995 with a superficy of 200 hectars. This location is classified as the third best site in Quebec for bird watching. Originally,, the marsh was larger than what we can observe today. In fact, it expanded between the two mountains of Cacouna.

In 1970, with the work of the seaport in progress and filling of the embankment which followed, the marsh was cut cut off from the river. Thus separated from the river, thanks to rainwater, the marsh softened little by little. It is however still regarded as a salt-water marsh.

There is nearly 4 kilometers of paths in the neighbourhoods of the harbour installations. Two turrets and a hiding place allows the observation of many birds.

The "Savanna" offers a path classified as "easy" of almost three kilometers and it makes it possible to appreciate the flora and the fauna of the marsh, host of several thousands of water birds. You will observe Snowy Egret, American Black Duck , Yellow Rail, Leconte's Sparrow, Barrow's Golden eye,  Black-bellied Plover, Semipalmated Plover, Short-billed Dowitcher and even some American pelicans.

Pull out you binoculars and happy bird watching!

Click on a picture to enlarge it

The mountain path

To reach the top of the mountain of Gros-Cacouna, it is to offer oneself, in 80 meters of assention, a voyage which leads us in the mixed forest of lichens and coniferous tree of the taïga of quebec's North. You will be able to observe a subnordic flora, marine mammals, the neighbouring islands (amongst which l'Ile Verte) and several species of birds. To be up there, it is especially to discover one of the most spectacular panoramas which exist on the estuary and the marine park of Saguenay - the St. Lawrence.

The top is arranged into a natural observation place so that you can take in all the spectacle offered. Points of view highlight:

• the geology (the islands, the south shore mountain crest, the mountains of charlevoix);

• the marine environment (observation of the bélugas and the marine birds) and migrating winged fauna;

• the rich maritime traditions of the lower -Saint-Laurent.

• The path is of a distance of 2.42 km for a duration of approximately 2 hours. An incline of 80 m, the degree of difficulty varies from "easy to a bit more challenging".
  

Security measures and recommendations:

• Warning! The surface of rocks can be wet and slipping.

• Use good walking shoes and wear appropriate clothings.

• Plan to bring a lotion of protection against mosquitos.

• Do not leave the marked path.

• Children under 12 must be with adults.

• It is forbiden to pick plants.

• Bring back your garbage - do not litter.

La Route bleue of the south estuary offers 400 km of blue pleasure!

A maritime path is a network of launches, secure shelters, rest area, services for lodging and food, basic and commercial camp-sites. Visit their Web site in order to plan your next vacation.

Les routes bleues (Blue Routes)

Considering that the St. Lawrence counts more than 2 500 kilometers of bank, it is thus necessary to develop the maritime Path section by section by supporting the local initiatives. In order to propose a uniform concept for the future users of the Path, it is essential to use the same designation to qualify the various sections of the maritime Path of the St. Lawrence, the one which was privileged is « Route bleue » "blue Road".

Objectives

The maritime Path of the St. Lawrence aims to :

• To emphasize the St. Lawrence and to make it more accessible;

• To prevent the deterioration of the natural environments by protecting it from an intensive and disordered use;

• To support the harmonious relations between the bordering users and owners;

• To develop an interest for the protection of the ecosystems within the bordering population and the users;

• To support the safety of the users;

• To generate a new source of attraction, visibility and economic repercussions for the tourist industry.

See also : Le Sentier Maritime du Bas St-Laurent