8 Top Hikes in the Magdalen Islands
If the Magdalen Islands are known for anything beyond their stunning beaches, it’s their dramatic coastal hikes. Red cliffs, rolling dunes, panoramic ocean views, and birdwatching opportunities make hiking here unforgettable. Whether you want a short stroll or a full-day adventure, there’s a trail for every pace on this list of top hikes in the Magdalen Islands. I compiled a list of the hikes I enjoyed the most during my visit to the Islands.
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Hikes on Grande-Entrée & Grosse-Île
Île Boudreau Trail – A moderate coastal hike with breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
- Distance: 5 km out-and-back
- Difficulty: moderate
- Highlights: Look for seabirds along the cliffs and explore small inlets along the path.
East Point National Wildlife Area Trails – Birdwatching paradise with flat, easy trails through dunes and salt marshes.
- Distance: 4.5 km loop
- Difficulty: easy
- Highlights: Great for sunrise hikes and wildlife photography.
Old Harry Trail – A scenic trail with dramatic cliffside views.
- Distance: 9 km loop
- Difficulty: moderate
- Highlights: Ideal for a quick stroll and capturing the sunset.
Hiking on Île du Havre-aux-Maisons
Butte Ronde – Short hike with panoramic views of the surrounding islands.
- Distance: 1.6 km out-and-back
- Difficulty: moderate
- Highlights: Ideal for a morning hike followed by a coffee at Cindyhook Sports Adventures.
Butte du Quai – Short hike with stunning views over the harbour.
- Distance: 1 km out-and-back
- Difficulty: moderate
- Highlights: short hike with rewarding 360-degree views
Cap Rouge Trail – Moderate coastal trail along the northern cliffs.
- Distance: 2.6 km loop
- Difficulty: easy
- Highlights: quiet stretches of beach and spectacular viewpoints
Cap Alright Lighthouse Trail – Easy walk to the lighthouse.
- Distance: 1 km out-and-back
- Difficulty: easy
- Highlights: perfect for families or those looking for a short excursion with a rewarding view.
Île du Havre-Aubert Trails
Butte de la Croix & Butte des Demoiselles – Easy to moderate hikes with panoramic ocean views.
- Distance: 2 km out-and-back
- Difficulty: easy
- Highlights: perfect spots for photography
Bout du Banc Trail – Walk along a narrow spit with water on both sides.
- Distance: 12 km out-and-back
- Difficulty: easy to moderate
- Highlights: great for tide exploration and birdwatching
Hiking Entre Vent et Marées Trail
If you’re looking for a multi-day adventure, the Entre Vent et Marées Trail is the ultimate hiking challenge in the Magdalen Islands. Stretching about 230 km, this long-distance trail links together the islands’ best landscapes—from windswept dunes and dramatic cliffs to quiet fishing villages and endless beaches.
- Trail Experience: The name translates to Between Wind and Tides, and it’s exactly that. The route combines beaches, inland paths, and coastal ridges, giving you a full immersion into island life. Hikers cross dunes, pass lighthouses, and experience both bustling communities and serene natural areas.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, depending on the segment. Sections can be done as day hikes if you don’t want to tackle the entire route.
- Highlights:
- Coastal views at Cap Alright and Old Harry
- Dune walks at Dune du Sud and Grande Échouerie
- Fishing communities and cultural stops along the way
- Opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially seabirds
- Logistics:
- The trail is self-guided, so planning ahead is key.
- Some sections are exposed, so pack for sun, wind, and changing weather.
- Accommodation can be found in villages along the way, or you can arrange camping in designated areas.
- Who It’s For: Perfect for experienced hikers looking for a multi-day trek in a unique maritime environment. But even casual hikers can enjoy shorter sections for a taste of the trail.
- AllTrails Entre Vents et Marées Loop map
Pro Tip: If you only have time for a section, try the stretch between Dune du Sud and Cap Alright Lighthouse—it combines beach, red cliffs, and sweeping Gulf of St. Lawrence views.
Hiking Tips
- Wear layers and sturdy shoes: Coastal winds and sandy paths can be tricky.
- Bring water and snacks: Some trails have no facilities nearby.
- Check tides: Coastal trails may have areas that are accessible only at low tide.
- Respect wildlife: Many trails cross sensitive dune and marsh areas.
- Sun protection: Even on cloudy days, UV reflection off sand and water is strong.
Suggested Hike Itinerary
Day 1: Île Boudreau Trail + La Pointe Old Harry at sunset.
Day 2: Butte de la Croix & Butte des Demoiselles on Île du Havre-Aubert.
Day 3: Cap Rouge Trail + Cap Alright Lighthouse Trail on Havre-aux-Maisons.
Optional: East Point National Wildlife Area for birdwatching and easy walking.
Insider Tip
Combine hikes with nearby beaches for the ultimate day: hike in the morning, swim or relax in the afternoon. For example, start on Butte de la Croix, then head to Plage de la Martinique for a late afternoon swim.
