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Summary

Need help? See the instructions for using the guide: page 2 to 5. (blue section)

This tourist guide was published by Tourisme Baie-James and Eeyou Istchee Tourism in collaboration with their partners and Tourisme Québec. Only the members of the regional tourism associations are included in this guide. Tourisme Baie-James and Eeyou Istchee Tourism are not responsible for any unintentional omissions or errors. Feel free to send us any suggestions and comments. Our complete address is given on page 4.

Legal deposit: © Tourisme Québec — Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec, 2014 ISBN 978-2-922614-09-1 © Tourisme Baie-James — Library and Archives Canada, 2014 ISSN 1495-8341

Discover the region

Regional map Inside back coverPortrait of the region 6The Route de la Baie-James 13The Route Transtaïga 35

The Route du Nord 38Highway 113 71Vallée de la Turgeon 80

Visiting and having fun

Events 84Culture and heritage 88Cultural tours 88Guided visits 88Arts and crafts 89Museum 91Aboriginal experience 91Nature and outdoor activitiesRiding 92Recreatif equipment, location, sell and repairs 92Aerotourism 92Excursions / Adventures 93Wildlife observation and interpretation 94

Public Beaches 94Nautical Circuit 94Voile 95Canoeing 95Golf 96ATV 96Mountain bike paths 97Bike rental 97Family activities 98Hiking 98Winter fun 100Snowmobile excursions 100Snowmobile clubs 101Cross-country skiing 101Hunting and fishing 102

Accommodation and food services

Food services 104Accommodation 106Bed & Breakfasts 109Hotels 110Campgrounds 112

Tourist homes (Cottages, condos) 113Outfitters 114Roadside rest areas and camgrounds rustic 116

Useful informationServices 118 Practical information 122

Memory jogger 124Alphabetical index 125

How to use this guide 2Symbols and pictograms used in this guide 2General informationQuebec’s tourist regions 3Road access to the region 3

Tourist information on Eeyou Istchee Baie-James 4Information offices 4Complaint 4 Tourist information on all regions 5Other access to the region 5An environmentally friendly guide 5

Instructions

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Route de la Baie-James

819 739-2541 [email protected] / www.matagami.com Via 109 Highway, Route de la Baie-James Km 0

Matagami population 1534

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Matagami is the western entrance of the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region. This town in a vast territory obviously gives an important place in outdoor activities. Within the city, it is possible to navigate around 3.5 km of hiking trails located in the forest providing access to an observation tower, the rapids, a terrace, a wildlife diversity. The resources are abundant, making Matagami an ideal place for lovers of adventure. Nine major rivers are accessible in a very close radius around Matagami. The number of hours of sunshine in the summer is higher than in areas farther south, allowing full enjoyment of the golf course, tennis courts, the campground and the beach. In winter, snow mobiling became queen. The 40 km of local trails converge toward the federated ones and are available for several weeks because of the length of our winters. The same is true for trail-country skiing that will satisfy skiers even the most experienced!

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Visit our web site: www.escapelikeneverbefore.com

How to use this guide

< Secondary Airport> Main Airport= Seaplane base

Gas station Hospital

h Rest area( Permanent Visitor Center? Seasonal Visitor CenterP Covered BridgeÇ Tourist road signs

Villages that offer services throughout the region

The information in this guide was accurate as of fall 2013. Prices do not include taxes, unless otherwise indicated, and are subject to change without notice. The next edition will be available in spring 2015.

1 Each colour refers to a different category in the

content section. 2 Text in italics (following the

description of a municipality or attraction) identified

with a black triangle explains where to go to visit

the municipality or attraction. 3 The symbols used

in the guide are explained below or presented in the

legend of each table. 4 The page indicated next to

a description refers to the page of the guide with

other information on the activity or attraction

highlighted. 5 The pictogram Ç indicates tourist

establishments on the route.

Access for persons with impaired mobility

2 Complete access for persons with impaired mobility3 Partial access for persons with impaired mobility For more information, contact Kéroul at 514 252-3104 or visit www.keroul.qc.ca. Only establish-

ments certified by Kéroul are listed in this guide.1 Tourist and Leisure Companion Sticker Companions of individuals with this sticker are admitted free.

Tourist road signsLook for blue signs! In Québec, they indicate the name of a region and the route to services, attractions and activities. See www.panneaubleu.com for more information.

Symbols and pictograms used in this guide


514 252-3104

Vacations adapted for people with restricted physical ability

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La route de la Baie-James

819 739-2541 [email protected] / www.matagami.com Via route 109, route de la Baie-James km 0

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Matagami constitue le point d’entrée ouest de la région Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. Une ville située dans un si vaste territoire accorde évidemment une place importante aux activités de plein air. À l’intérieur même de la ville, il est possible de sillonner 3,5 km de sentiers pédestres situés en forêt, donnant accès à une tour d’observation, des rapides, une terrasse ainsi qu’à une faune et une flore diversifiées. Les ressources y sont abon-dantes, ce qui fait de Matagami un endroit idéal pour les amateurs d’aventure. Neuf plans d’eau majeurs sont accessibles dans un rayon très rap-proché autour de Matagami. Le nombre d’heures d’ensoleillement durant l’été y est plus élevé que dans les régions plus au sud, ce qui permet de jouir pleinement du terrain de golf, des courts de tennis, du terrain de camping et de la plage. L’hiver, la motoneige devient reine. Les 40 km de sentiers locaux convergent vers les sentiers fédérés et sont accessibles durant plusieurs semaines étant donné la longueur de nos hivers. Il en est de même pour les sentiers de ski de fond qui sauront satisfaire les fondeurs les plus aguerris !

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* The distance to access these cities is the shortest and requires the use of gravel roads.It is illegal to transport or use radar detectors in Québec.

General information


Québec’s tourist regions

Road access to the region

1 Îles de la Madeleine 1 877 624-4437 tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com2 Gaspésie 1 800 463-0323 tourisme-gaspesie.com3 Bas-Saint-Laurent 1 800 563-5268 bassaintlaurent.ca4 Québec 1 877 783-1608 quebecregion.com5 Charlevoix 1 800 667-2276 charlevoixtourism.com6 Chaudière-Appalaches 1 888 831-4411 chaudiereappalaches.com7 Mauricie 1 800 567-7603 mauricietourism.org8 Cantons de l’est 1 800 355-5755 easterntownships.org9 Montérégie 1 866 469-0069 tourisme-monteregie.qc.ca10 Lanaudière 1 800 363-2788 lanaudiere.ca11 Laurentides 1 800 561-6673 laurentians.com12 Montréal 1 800 363-7777 tourism-montreal.org 13 Outaouais 1 800 265-7822 outaouaistourism.com 14 Abitibi-Témiscamingue 1 800 808-0706 abitibi-temiscamingue-tourism.org15 Saguenay – Lac-Saint-Jean 1 877 253-8387 saguenaylacsaintjean.ca16 Côte-Nord | Manicouagan 1 888 463-5319 cotenord-manicouagan.com17 Côte-Nord | Duplessis 1 888 463-0808 tourismeduplessis.com18 Baie-James 1 888 748-8140 escapelikeneverbefore.com19 Laval 1 877 465-2825 tourismelaval.com20 Centre-du-Québec 1 888 816-4007 tourismecentreduquebec.com21 Nunavik 1 888 594-3424 nunavik-tourism.com22 Eeyou Istchee 1 888 268-2682 creetourism.ca

Visit us on www.facebook.com/regionstouristiquesquebec

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Eeyou Istchee Tourism 203, Opemiska Meskino, C.P. 1167, Oujé-Bougoumou (Québec) G0W 3C0

Phone: 418 745-2220 or toll free 1 888 268-2682 (Canada and United States) Fax: 418 745-2240

www.escapelikeneverbefore.ca [email protected]

Information offices

You can find tourist information offices, indicated with the “?” pictogram on the roadside or in tourism brochures, road signs and the panel at the entrance to the office.

General information

Tourisme Baie-James1252, route 167 Sud, C.P. 134, Chibougamau (Québec) G8P 2K6 Phone: 418 748-8140 or toll free 1 888 748-8140 (Canada and United States) Fax: 418 748-8150

www.escapelikeneverbefore.com [email protected]

Tourist information on Eeyou Istchee Baie-James


To make a complaint about tourist services received in Québec, please contact Tourisme Québec at 1 800 463-5009 (Canada and the United States) or [email protected].

Complaint

( Permanent offices

Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government tourist office Km 6, route de la Baie-James Matagami, J0Y 2A0 819 739-4473 [email protected] www.greibj-eijbrg.ca

? Seasonal offices

Chibougamau tourist office512, route 167 Sud G8P 2X8 418 748-7276 [email protected]

Lebel-sur-Quévillon tourist office900, boul. Quévillon J0Y 1X0 819 755-3363 / off-season: 819 755-4826 [email protected] / [email protected] www.lebel-sur-quevillon.com

Radisson tourist office198, rue Joliet J0Y 2X0 819 638-8687 / off-season: 819 638-7777 [email protected]

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Besoin d’aide ? Référez-vous au mode d’emploi du guide : p. 2 à 5 (section bleue).

Autre accès à la région

Information généraleComment utiliser ce guide

Avions Air Creebec 1 800 567-6567 Air Creebec (Chibougamau) 418 748-3764 Air Inuit Réservation 1 800 361-2965Aéroports Chibougamau-Chapais 418 748-2211 La Grande – Radisson 819 638-8847 Montréal-Trudeau 1 800 465-1213Nolisement Air Inuit 1 800 661-5850 Hélicoptères Canadiens Ltée 418 748-2602 Les Hélicoptères Whapchiwem 819 638-7904Autobus Autobus Messier 418 748-2120 Terminus Chapais 418 745-2778

Terminus Chibougamau 418 748-2842 Terminus Lebel-sur-Quévillon 819 755-3518 Terminus Matagami 819 739-2501 Terminus – Montréal 514 842-2281 Terminus – Québec 418 525-3000État des routes

Société de développement de la Baie-James 418 748-7777 www.sdbj.gouv.qc.ca

Transports Québec 511 www.quebec511.info 1 888 355-0511

Par téléphone : Composez sans frais, tous les jours de l’année, de 9 h à 17 h, de Montréal, du Québec, d’ailleurs au Canada et des États-Unis 1 877 266-5687

Par courriel : [email protected]

Par écrit : Tourisme Québec, Case postale 979, Montréal (Québec) H3C 2W3 Canada.

Au comptoir : Renseignements selon les horaires ci-dessous. Les horaires sont sujets à chan-gement. Merci de les vérifier dans bonjourquebec.com.

( Bureaux permanents (offrant divers services et produits touristiques)Québec : Centre Infotouriste de Québec. 12, rue Sainte-Anne (face au Château Frontenac).

21 juin au 31 août : 9 h à 19 h ; 1er septembre au 31 octobre : 9 h à 18 h ; le reste de l’année : 9 h à 17 h ; fermé les 25 décembre et 1er janvier.

Montréal : Centre Infotouriste de Montréal. 1255, rue Peel, bureau 100. 1er avril au 20 juin : 9 h à 18 h ; 21 juin au 31 août : 9 h à 19 h ; 1er septembre au 31 octobre : 9 h à 18 h ; 1er novembre au 31 mars : 9 h à 17 h ; fermé les 25 décembre et 1er janvier.

Rigaud : Centre Infotouriste de Rigaud. Autoroute 40, sortie 12 au Québec (Highway 417 en Ontario). 21 juin au 31 août : 9 h à 19 h ; le reste de l’année : 9 h à 17 h ; fermé les 25 décembre et 1er janvier.

Rivière-Beaudette : Centre Infotouriste de Rivière-Beaudette. Autoroute 20 au Québec (Highway 401 en Ontario). 21 juin au 31 août : 9 h à 19 h ; le reste de l’année : 9 h à 17 h ; fermé les 25 décembre et 1er janvier.

514 8732015 ou 1 877 BONJOUR (2665687)

Renseignements touristiques pour toutes les régions

Fabriqué au Québec, le papier sur lequel est imprimé ce guide touristique officiel contient 100 % de fibres certifiées en vertu de la chaîne de traçabilité, dont 10 % de fibres post-consommation. Le réseau des associations touristiques régionales (ATR) se soucie de l’environne ment en privilégiant la saine gestion des forêts tout en encourageant l’économie québécoise. Avant de me recycler, faites-moi circuler !

Environnement

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Other access to the region

General information

By phone: Toll free, year-around, 7 days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Montréal and else -where in Québec, elsewhere in Canada and the United States .........1 877 266-5687

By email: [email protected]

By mail: Tourisme Québec, Case postale 979, Montréal (Québec) H3C 2W3 Canada

In person: As indicated in the schedules listed below. Schedules are subject to change. Please check our site at www.bonjourquebec.com.

( Permanent offices (offering various tourist services and products).Québec: Centre Infotouriste of Québec. 12, rue Sainte-Anne (across from Château Frontenac). June 21 to August 31, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. September 1 to October 31, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For the rest of the year, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed December 25 and January 1.

Montréal: Centre Infotouriste of Montréal. 1255, rue Peel, suite 100. April 1 to June 20, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 21 to August 31, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. September 1 to October 31, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. November 1 to March 31, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed December 25 and January 1.

Rigaud : Centre Infotouriste of Rigaud. Highway 40, exit 12 in Québec (Highway 417 in Ontario). June 21 to August 31, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For the rest of the year, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed December 25 and January 1.

Rivière-Beaudette: Centre Infotouriste of Rivière-Beaudette. Highway 20 in Québec (Highway 401 in Ontario). June 21 to August 31, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For the rest of the year, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed December 25 and January 1.

514 873-2015 or 1 877 BONJOUR (266-5687)

Tourist information on all regions

An environmentally friendly guideThe paper in this official tourist guide was made in Québec and contains 100% chain of custody certified libre, of which 10% is post-consumer fibre. The network or regional tourism associations cares about the environment and promotes healthy forest management while encouraging the Québec economy. Reread and share this guide before recycling it.

Airlines Air Creebec 1 800 567-6567 Air Creebec (Chibougamau) 418 748-3764 Air Inuit Reservation 1 800 361-2965Airports Chibougamau-Chapais 418 748-2211 La Grande – Radisson 819 638-8847 Montreal-Trudeau 1 800 465-1213Charter Flights Air Inuit 1 800 661-5850 Canadian helicopters 418 748-2602 Les Hélicoptères Whapchiwem 819 638-7904Bus Autobus Messier 418 748-2120 Terminus Chapais 418 745-2778

Terminus Chibougamau 418 748-2842 Terminus Lebel-sur-Quévillon 819 755-3518 Terminus Matagami 819 739-2501 Terminus – Montréal 514 842-2281 Terminus – Québec 418 525-3000Road conditions

Société de développement de la Baie-James 418 748-7777 www.sdbj.gouv.qc.ca

Transports Québec 511 www.quebec511.info 1 888 355-0511

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Portrait of the region

T he Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory…Gold, silve r, copper and zinc flow from its

soil. Majestic structures rise from its bedrock, yield-ing streams of power. Fish teem in its waters. The largest herd of caribou in the world migrates across its frozen inland seas, defying wolves whose howls blend into the gusting wind. Come discover extreme ranges of temperature, endless expanses of snow and a sky streaked with the glorious shim mer of northern lights! Cross covered bridges, remnants of the past, meet artisans and hear Cree Eeyou Native legends. Go beyond the 49th paral-lel and visit a rich territory and its welcoming population.The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory encom-passes over 350,000 km2 between the 49th and 55th parallels. Comparing it to Germany, which covers 357,000 km2, gives some idea of its size. Located roughly 800 km north of Montréal, the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory extends from Ontario and Baie James in the west to the Monts Otish in the east; from Nunavik in the north to the Abitibi and Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean regions in the south. Highway 167 provides access to the area from the east. It leads to Mistissini, Chibougamau, Oujé-Bougoumou, Chapais, Waswanipi and Lebel-sur-Quévillon via Highway 113. Highway 109, on the other hand, enters the territory from the west and

leads to the town of Matagami. From that point, there are three different roads through the region: the Route de la Baie-James, completely paved and 620 km long, connecting Matagami to Radisson. All along of this way, you can see the Waskaganish, Eastmain, Wemindji and Chisasibi Cree communities. The Route du Nord, a gravel road, 407 km long, linking the Route de la Baie-James to Chibou gamau passing by the Nemaska Cree community; and, finally, the Route Transtaiga, a 688-km-long gravel road, connecting Hydro-Québec’s power stations together, all the way to Caniapiscau dam. There are also flights from Montréal and Val-d’Or to some coastal cree communities or Chibougamau.

The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory – Québec’s natural wildernessThe Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory has a cold continental climate characterized by significant temperature fluctuations. The long, cold winter begins in November and lasts until April, with temperatures averaging -23°C but sometimes dropping to -40°C. Summer extends from June to September with an average temperature of 17°C, occasionally rising to 30°C. Though the season is short, summer is blessed with long days; the sun rises at 5 a.m. and only sets in the late evening.

The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory, queen of wide-open spaces…


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All the more reason to take full advantage of the many outdoor activities available: fishing, camping, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, biking, ATV outings, etc. In the fall, hunting becomes the star activity, while in winter, picturesque snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoe-ing sledding reveal another facet of the territory’s untouched expanses.Photography and nature enthusiasts will enjoy the many hiking trails developed along roads, rivers and streams that offer unmatched vistas, unique and authentic shots, memories evoking long sighs and thoughts of returning. The luminous horizon of the northern sky will amaze you with its pink and blue opalescence giving way to blazing golden sunsets. Sparkling with a million stars, the moonbright vault lighting your pathway through the night will enthral you. You may even be lucky enough to see the celes-tial dance of the northern lights spreading their shimmering ribbons across the sky. Take the time to intensely experience every minute of your stay here.

Wildlife and flora to discoverTwo types of vegetation fashion the landscape of Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. The forest, almost impenetrable, is sprinkled with groves, hardwoods and a wide variety of bushes and is brimming with edible plants and wild berries. A little further north, the undergrowth thins out, the hardwoods grad-ually disappear and the spruces become smaller in size and number; the boreal forest gives way to the taiga. Cladonia, or reindeer moss, grows very slowly and takes many years to form the greenish thalli that carpet the shallow acid soil of the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory. Every year, herds of caribou from the Rivière aux Feuilles and the Rivière George leave Nunavik and travel thousands of kilometres seeking new pastures. It is therefore very important not to harm these carpets of lichen, which are a staple of their diet!

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For all its calm appearance, the forest is also home to about forty species of mammals, includ-ing wolves, lynxes, foxes, bears and moose. In the sky, sheltered beneath the rushes, perched on branches or paddling on the waters, birds make their presence felt and their call heard. Ducks, snow geese, snowy owls, eagles, falcons, ptarmigans, Canada geese, and loons figure among the bird life of the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory.

The abundance of its aquatic fauna is increasingly recognized and the diversity as well as the enormous size of certain species make it a real paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Anglers travel a long way to try their luck for walleye, lake trout, brook trout,

pike and other species in the crystal-clear waters of the territory’s innumerable lakes and rivers. Baie-d’Hudson and Baie James also boast fish and marine mammals such as whales, belugas and seals, down from the Arctic.

The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory has the largest expanses of fresh water in Québec, real inland seas. Lac Mistassini, for instance, excavated by glaciers, is the biggest natural lake in the prov-ince with an area of 2,115 km2—nearly three times the size of Lac-Saint-Jean. As for the reser-voirs of the La Grande complex, they represent the largest man-made waterbodies; in fact, Caniapiscau reservoir encompasses more than 4,318 km2, equivalent to 39 billion cubic meters of water.


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The inhabitants, from past to presentTwo groups live side by side in the area: Jamesians, with a population of about 17,000, and the Cree of Eeyou Istchee, numbering near-ly 16,000 people.

Eeyou Istchee “Land of the People”The ancestors of the current Cree population have occupied the land from time immemorial. In fact, the Crees of Eeyou Istchee (Land of the People) live along the rivers and around the lakes of the land surrounding the southeastern extremity of Baie James. Their traditional way of life is based on hunting, fishing and trapping. Thanks to their Ta

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creativity and ingenuity, the Crees have traveled through and become familiar with this huge terri-tory, subsisting mainly on flora and wildlife from the sea and the forest.

Defining themselves as a nation of hunters – Ndooheenou – the Crees followed the seasons and animal migrations. Among big game, caribou was their favourite prey. It not only supplied them with food but also provided essential elements for mak-ing clothing, tools, snowshoes, moccasins and teepees. As for small game, goose hunting in the spring and fall contributed to filling the larder then, and still does today, for two months. During Goose Break, one of the major traditional activities observed by the Crees, the whole family returns to the nomadic lifestyle for two weeks.

In the summer, fishing is in full swing in the coastal bays and river estuaries. At the end of the season comes the long-awaited time for picking berries, small fruits and other plants; the Crees use them not only as food but also as ingredients in medicine and dyes.

The first contacts with Europeans, dating from the beginning of the 17th century, mainly involved the fur trade, which lasted nearly 300 years. With the passing years, the Crees considerably changed their lifestyle. To meet the demands of the fur trade, they gradually set aside big game hunting and their nomadic way of life, and trapping became a major activity. The trading post sites became the location of today’s Cree communities.

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Though some Crees still make a living from trap-ping and other traditional activities such as hunt-ing and fishing, modern life has considerably changed the behaviour of hunters and trappers. With longer distances to cover, they now travel by snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle, depending on the season. In fact, the significant transformation of the landscape first caused by mining and log-ging activities, and all the more by the construction of huge hydroelectric facilities and roads since the beginning of the 1970s, has significantly affected day-to-day life and traveling related to seasonal activities for the Crees.Since the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement was signed in 1975, the Crees have moved into the 20th century at the speed of light. A proud people, they are working to revitalize their traditions and language, while providing commu-nity members with the benefits of modern life, especially in the areas of health, education, economics and housing. Provisions of the Agreement also give the Crees exclusive or shared

access, depending on the case, to territories they previously occupied alone, where they can practice traditional hunting, fishing and trapping activities.The long adventure of the first Europeans to come to America mingled with the history of the early occupants of this huge territory. Their exploration of the new continent was fuelled by the search for a new route to Asia and, in 1610, Sir Henry Hudson discovered the bay that bears his name. In 1631, Thomas James published the map of Baie-d’Hudson showing once and for all that it was not the Northwest Passage, the fabled sea route to the Orient. However, people rapidly realized that the region was full of animals whose furs were among the most sought-after in the world. During that period, Pierre-Esprit Radisson and Médard Chouart, Sieur des Groseilliers, developed the fur trade in New France. They first managed to interest the English and, in May 1670, King Charles granted a royal charter to the Hudson’s Bay Company, which is still in operation



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Learning how to scrape a hide



today! In 1674, preferring exploration to trade, they left that company and returned once more to France to create the North West Company, in direct competition with the Hudson’s Bay Company. The struggle for control of the fur trade continued until 1713, when signature of the Treaty of Utrecht ended hostilities between the French and the English. The fur market grad-ually declined; only Natives now practice fur trapping. As for the last of the trappers, they became prospectors!

In fact, interest in the area was revived by the riches in the bedrock of the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory. Road construction and railway development after World War II made it possible for the mining industry to flourish. A dozen mines went into operation in the 1950s, leading to the founding of the towns of Chapais, Chibougamau and, a little later, Matagami. The infrastructure set up by the mining industry opened the way to another natural resource: the boreal forest.

Spruce is used to produce excellent wood framing and its pulp enhances the strength of certain types of paper. Therefore, the 1960s were the logging years. Here as well as elsewhere in Québec, many companies were established and their needs increased constantly.

The project of the century…At the beginning of the 1970s, nearly all the rivers near major urban centers had been developed. With the rising demand for power, it became urgent to develop new projects. In 1971, the Québec Govern ment announced a mega-project: the harnessing of the rivers in the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory. In 1972, Hydro-Québec therefore began construction of the La Grande complex, including the largest underground power house in the world, La Grande-2, today renamed Robert-Bourassa in honour of the proponent of the project, the former premier.

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In all, eight generating stations producing more than half of Québec’s hydroelectric power, went up during the two construction phases. Three highways totalling over 1,700 km were built: the Route de la Baie-James (Matagami-Radisson), the Route Transtaiga (Radisson-Caniapiscau) and the Route du Nord (Chibougamau-Radisson). Thousands of jobs were created by Québec’s most ambitious society-wide project to date!

Come to the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory, the destination of all adventuresEeyou Istchee Baie-James, it’s everything words can’t describe: the everlasting tundra silence, the taiga stretching as far as the eye can see, the boreal forest scent, the rampant race of the big caribou herds, the northern lights ballet in a crystal sky, a wildlife made to survive the country’s tough conditions and turbulent rivers.Arid mountains offer a beautiful spot for hik-ing, small preys and fish call hunters and fans of fishing while the immensity of the territory opens itself to its discovery in quad and snow-mobile. In short, this territory offers loads of activities for adventurers!

SyllabicThe Crees use a syllabic writing system developed by Methodist missionary James Evans in the 1840s and made popular amongst the Crees of Iiyiyuuschii in the last few decades of the 19th century, when religious texts trans-lated under the direction of the Rev. John Horden, became widely available.A few decades ago, syllabics were known and used by almost all Cree adults. However, as a result of residential schools and local educa-tion in English or French, their use declined for youth and middle aged people. In the last 15 years there has been a resurgence of the use of syllabics and school-age children and many young adults are now able to read and write. The Cree School Board places a great emphasis on Cree literacy in its programs. Most Crees feel that knowledge of syllabics is an important part of being Cree and that Cree literacy plays an important role in maintaining and promoting the use of the language.

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Route Transtaïga

MANICOUAGAN (CÔTE-NORD)

SAGUENAY — LAC-ST-JEAN

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The Route de la Baie-James was initially built to enable machinery and workers to reach the major jobsites of the hydroelectric projects, undertaken in the 1970s, overland. Construction began in 1971 and was completed in October 1974, which was remarkably quick, considering the scope of the work to be done. In fact, the 420-mile length of the road was completed in record time of 420 days. The road, which is larger than usual, was designed with a load bearing capacity of up to 500 metric tons. It goes without saying that the eleven bridges along the Route de la Baie-James are particularly sturdy.A few stretches of road connecting the Route de la Baie-James to certain Hydro-Québec facilities or Cree villages have also been built since its inauguration. The Cree communities of Waskaganish, Eastmain, Wemindji and Chisasibi are now accessible by road.Although there are no towns along the Route de la Baie-James, you will notice camps on the road-side. These are hunting and fishing camps occupied by the Crees of the neighbouring communities. The camps are used mainly during the hunting seasons, although some are inhabited year round.You will find a gas area at kilometer 381 from Matagami. A cafeteria, gas station and rooms are available there. Since the road crosses an isolated and remote territory, for their safety, travelers are asked to registrer at the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government Tourist Office six kilometers north of Matagami. There are also emergency phones available along the Route de la Baie-James for safety reasons.They say the journey is just as important as the destination. This long road leads to the northern horizon, opening the way to a territory rich in culture, wildlife, vegetation and history. Interpretive panels placed at strategic locations along the road will help you to discover it. Rest areas will allow you to enjoy it. You will gain a better understanding of certain conditions that show the incredible force and creativity of nature. Take your time discovering the road; enjoy a unique, memorable trip.

T he Route de la Baie-James is a 620-km long road that crosses the region from south to north. It is the exten-

sion of Highway 109 and connects the towns of Matagami and Radisson and also

the Cree communities of Waskaganish, Eastmain, Wemindji and Chisasibi. Only the community of Whapmagoostui, North of Chisasibi is not accessible by road.


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819 739-2030 [email protected] / www.greibj-eijbrg.ca Via routes 111, 109, 167, 113 and 393

Since January 1, 2014, Category III lands as defined in the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA) are managed by the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government, which is responsible for the administration of numerous services, including municipal services, regional county municipality (MRC) services, and services provided by regional boards on natural resources and land use, for an area covering more than 277,000 square kilometres. It is worth noting that the council of the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government is made up of 11 Cree and 11 James Bay members who jointly manage this part of the region of Eeyou Istchee James Bay.You can enter the region of Eeyou Istchee James Bay from Abitibi-Témiscamingue using Routes 109 and 113 and crossing the 49th parallel or by passing Kilometre post 187 in the Ashuapmushuan reservation coming from Lac-Saint-Jean using Route 167. This immense northern territory, dotted with far-flung cities and communities, is governed in accordance with the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement, which calls for three categories of land use. Category I lands are reserved exclusively for the use of Native people. Since January 2014, Category II lands are under the responsibility of the new Cree Nation Government (CNG). In addition, Category III lands are now managed by the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government.The Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government is endeavouring to make your travel in the region as pleasant and comfortable as possible to help ensure that you enjoy your stay. Rest stops, launching ramps, docks, wading and camping sites, and the information office at Kilometre 6 are all services and amenities designed for you. Get the most out of your stay in this magnificent northern region!

Eeyou Istchee James-Bay Regional Government



The logo for the new regional government was created by two artists who took part in the logo design contest, Stéfanie Thompson and Stéphanie Brousseau.

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The Route de la Baie-James obviously starts at the entrance of the region Eeyou Istchee Baie-James, by Highway 109, heading north. RTE 109 – KM 118Interpretation panel: “A Synthesis of Ore Bearing Structures”.RTE 109 – KM 133Interpretation panel: “What Gives the Emerald Water its Colour?”.

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RTE 109 – KM 157: Cartwright HillsScenic lookout, picnic area, sanitary facilities and public phone, Interpretation panels: “Memory of a glacier : the esker Matagami”. “A trapline in the Abitibi beaver reserve”. “Animals and Algonquins respected partners in life”.

RTE 109 – KM 224: MatagamiDon’t forget to fuel up beforehand because the next gas station is 381 km away!KM 0: Your adventure begins here!Get your picture taken here.

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819 739-2541 [email protected] / www.matagami.com Via 109 Highway, Route de la Baie-James Km 0


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Matagami is the western entrance of the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region. This town in a vast territory obviously gives an important place in outdoor activities. Within the city, it is possible to navigate around 3.5 km of hiking trails located in the forest providing access to an observation tower, the rapids, a terrace, a wildlife diversity. The resources are abundant, making Matagami an ideal place for lovers of adventure. Nine major rivers are accessible in a very close radius around Matagami. The number of hours of sunshine in the summer is higher than in areas farther south, allowing full enjoyment of the golf course, tennis courts, the campground and the beach. In winter, snow mobiling became queen. The 40 km of local trails converge toward the federated ones and are available for several weeks because of the length of our winters. The same is true for trail-country skiing that will satisfy skiers even the most experienced!

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Hunting and FishingLovers of hunting and fishing can take advantage of unique sites where the game and fish are plentiful. The nine rivers that surround Matagami provide sufficient space to enable everyone to have a little piece of its own.As Matagami is located near hunting areas 16, 17 and 22, you should pay attention to the rules. Each area has its own merits, especially with regard to the dates of opening and closing. Lovers of big game will enjoy themselves in that territory where the big taken are not uncommon. There are moose, black bear and even caribou. Lovers of hunting small game are not forgotten either, since they may hunt four species of partridges and hares.Fishing will bring you certainly thrills. Walleye fishing is a great challenge. It is predominantly found in lacs Matagami, Goéland and Olga. The experience of ice fishing is unique. Escaping a pike of about fifteen pounds is a memory that you remember for a long time.Matagami also represents the relay ideal for those who want to go further north, in the land of the caribou.

HistoryMatagami, founded in 1963, owes its origin to mineral exploration. But the Matagami territory was occupied long before the arrival of the European. Already in the 17th century, the Cree in the region made the fur trade with the English of the Baie-James and the French of Abitibi and Témiscamingue. Like sturgeon and white fish abounded in Lac Waswanipi, commercial fishing began in the thir-ties. In 1962, several Cree families were installed in Matagami. Among the first to settle here, we note the Kitchen and Otter. The Cree population continued to rise steadily until 1975, then the cree people fled to the Waswanipi community.

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KM 0.5Interpretation panel: “Pioneers of a Leading Industry“

KM 2: Pont de la Rivière-BellThe bridge is the longest on this highway. The Rivière Bell flows into Lac Matagami. The northern point of the lake then becomes the Rivière Nottaway which flows up to Baie-James.

KM 6: Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government tourist officeWe suggest that you register your-self for security purposes. You may also obtain several interesting pieces of information about the area from our tourist officers. Memories, rest-rooms, picnic tables and public phone. Interpretation panel: “One terri-tory… six seasons”. Open 24 hours, all year long 819 739-4473.

KM 8Interpretation panel: “Fens and bogs: more than just Peatlands”.

KM 10: Mont LaurierAn interpretation panel is located on the highway’s northbound shoulder. This hill is 480 m high. You may trek up to its top and enjoy a magnificent view of Matagami’s surroundings.Interpretation panel: “Mont Laurier – A taste of northern environments”.

KM 37: Lac Matagami Campground (2 Km)85 sites in total including 79 with sewage system, running water, fireplace (4 facing route) and 6 sandy sites dedicated to tents (with fireplace). All campers have access to restrooms, showers and community pavillon. Features: boat-launching ramp, fishing, playground, picnic tables, parking, cycling trail. Open from midsummer’s to Labour Day: 819 739-8383 or 819 739-2030 off season.Interpretation panel: “Surface deposits and the nature of forest populations”.

KM 38: Rivière WaswanipiBoat-launching ramp on the northbound shoulder of the highway. 10 km east from the bridge, are the Red Falls, a spectacular sight!

KM 48: Rivière Waswanipi & Lac Olga (10 km)You will find a rustic campground on the shore of Rivière Waswanipi (giving access to Lac Olga). Picnic tables, sanitary facilities and boat-launching ramp.

KM 50Interpretation panel: “Boosting forest rebirth”, on the northbound shoulder of the highway.

KM 80: Lac Ouescapis (2,5 km)Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary facilities and boat-launching ramp.


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KM 88Interpretation panel: “Forestry activities”.

KM 106Interpretation panel: “Close-up on mining exploration”.

KM 130Interpretation panel: “Glacial deposits and forest roads”.

KM 135: Emergency phone Rest area, picnic tables, sanitary facilities.

KM 161Interpretation panel: “Boreal encounter”. Beware, it is on top of the hill on the west side of the road.

KM 189: Lac Rodayer Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary facilities and boat-launching ramp.

KM 232: Rivière BroadbackInterpretation panel: “Baie James the contemporary heir of ice ages”, picnic area, sanitary facilities, scenic lookout and pathway. Here a long time ago began the Tyrell Sea.Interpretation panel: “Rythmites, varves and shells: remnants of glacier advance”.

Km 237: Access Road to Waskaganish (gravel)Rest area, picnic tables, sanitary facilities. Waskaganish (in the past Rupert House) is 102 km west.

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819 895-8650 [email protected] / www.waskaganish.ca

You don’t have to go far to get a little glimpse of the past in Waskaganish: a short stroll and you’ll find yourself facing the majestic Rivière Rupert and right in front of the very first fur trad-ing post in Canada. The community, whose original name was Fort Charles, was settled in the region more than 330 years ago. It was shortly thereafter re-named Rupert’s House. In fact, this community of 2621 residents owes its name to the fur trade, as Waskaganish is the Cree word meaning “Little House”, the name used by the first inhabitants to describe the trading post buildings. The preservation of the community’s rich history remains a priority. Proof of this is that local historians at the Waskaganish Cultural Institute are documenting the community’s past. For those looking to combine adventure and culture you will be more than enthused by what Waskaganish has to offer. The community is situated on the southeast corner of Baie James, on the south shore of the Rivière Rupert where the Rivières Nottaway, Broadback, Rupert and Pontax converge. Accompanied by an experienced guide, visitors can travel by freighter canoe along the coast and to the islands. Nature and photography enthusiasts will find an abundance of subjects as this is one of North America’s premier areas for migratory birds. In 1995, a survey of the region counted a record for the number of species observed in a single day in northern Canada.The region is also renowned for its mainland waterways, most notably the legendary Rivière Rupert. Considered a traditional “highway” to the mainland it is the site every year of a “canoe brigade” where local elders guide Cree youth up the river teaching them about the land and the traditional Cree way of life. The river is also the site of an important annual event, where families gather at the Smoky Hill rapids on the Rivière Rupert to fish for seagoing whitefish annual spawning.

Waskaganish population 2621


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KM 257: Rivière Rupert (1.2 KM)Rustic campground, boat-launching ramp, picnic tables and sanitary facilities.

The powerful Rivière Rupert, one of Québec’s largest, flows from east to west, from Lac Mistassini to Baie de Rupert in Baie James, over a distance of nearly 600 kilometres. The river has several impressive rapids, including the one that can be admired from the bridge.

In 1668, Médard Chouart des Groseilliers, a Frenchman working for the British government, made his way to the mouth of the Rivière Rupert to break the French monopoly on the fur trade.

He named the river in honour of Prince Rupert, the backer of the expedition. He also founded a fort at the river mouth, which later became Rupert House, the original Hudson’s Bay Company trading post, and is now the site of the Cree village of Waskaganish.

KM 257: Rivière Rupert Waterfall Interpretation panel: “Lord paramount of the North”.Picnic area, sanitary facilities, scenic lookout and pathway on the north shore of the river. It’s the place to have a picnic!Interpretation panel: “The Rupert: Over 3000 Years of History”.

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KM 274: Passages (transitions) Rest Area and Route du Nord IntersectionInterpretation panel: “Fire-devastated forests”. Picnic area and sanitary facilities, site wading. Lightning caused a forest fire here in 1983.

KM 294: Rivière Pontax IIIThe Pontax name is a transformation of the Indian name “Pontacks”, a Cree trapper family who used to live in the area. Site wading.

KM 307: Rivière Pontax IForest fire caused by lightning in 1986. You will observe that the river’s numbers are not consecutive. They have been given in accordance with their rate of flow. It is one of a few rivers of the Baie-James basin to be excluded from the hydroelectric projects. Three rivers Pontax are feed by Lac Champion. Site wading.

KM 312: Rivière Pontax IISite wading.

KM 323: Lac Mirabelli (4 km)Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary facilities and boat-launching ramp. In the past, this site was used as a road construction camp.

KM 324: Rivière Jolicoeur You may see a nice waterfall under the bridge.

KM 350: Access Road to Eastmain (gravel) You are at 103 Km of Eastmain

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819 977-0211 [email protected] / www.eastmain.ca

Eastmain still bears the historic name given to the mainland of the eastern shores of Baie James. In fact, the Hudson Bay Company referred to the whole eastern shores of Baie James and Baie-d’Hudson as “East Main”. It was here, during the 1670’s that the first ships from the Hudson’s Bay Company dropped anchor to trade with the community’s ancestors.

Today, Eastmain is a growing community of 781 residents nestled along the south shores of the Rivière Eastmain. Its modest size allows visitors to bask in a truly traditional Cree environment while having access to all the amenities of modern life. You will find lodging (a new hotel is also scheduled for opening in the summer of 2014), a restaurant, two fully stocked grocery stores, as well as a sporting goods store. In the summer, visitors can bike or walk along the paths that meander through the surrounding nature. During winter, abundant snowmobile trails replace these paths. The region is also renowned for waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, and migratory flight paths that can be observed or photographed from the islands and coastal marshlands. Visitors looking for real adventure can explore the amazing challenging terrain of the Baie James coast accompanied by an experienced Cree guide. Eastmain is a very friendly place, where people are generous, kind and hospitable. A simple handshake and greeting is all that will suffice to make you feel welcome to our communauty!

Eastmain population 781



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KM 381: Rest stop-SDBJAdministered by the Société de développement de la Baie-James.Gas 24 h/24. Cafeteria 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Motel accommodation (new) 24 h/24, 819 638-8502.Take note that two emergency phone cabins are located there.

KM 391Interpretation panel: “Experimental reforestation techniques for an outstanding road”.Interpretation panel: “An exceptional bridge for an exceptional road”.

KM 395: Rivière Eastmain (3 km)Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary facilities and scenic lookout under the bridge. This most impressive bridge of the 11 bridges along the Route de la Baie-James won a prize for its architecture and engineering.

KM 411: Rivière OpinacaYou may see a nice water-fall under the bridge. Lightning caused a forest fire in 1989. Rustic camp-ground, picnic tables and sanitary facilities.

KM 440: String of Lakes (chaîne de lacs) (3 km)Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary facilities, boat-launching ramp. In the past time, this site was a workers camp.

KM 464:Rivière du Vieux ComptoirPicnic tables, sanitary facilities and scenic lookout. You will discover one of the biggest culvert in the world: 16 m wide by 80 m long. A big forest fire caused by lightning in 1989 went all the way to Lac Yasinski.

Rivière Opinaca © Eeyou Istchee James-Bay Regional Government

Pont de l’Eastmain © Tourisme Baie-James

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KM 467: Lac du Vieux ComptoirRustic campground, sanitary facilities and picnic tables. An astonishing site, especially at sunset. You may then under-stand why people used to call the area “painted hills”.Interpretation panel: “Once upon a time… the earth”.Interpretation panel: “Cree gathering place”.Interpretation panel: A whale-back topo graphy”.

KM 488Interpretation panel: “The Northern trucker”.

KM 503: Lac Miron (1,5 km) Picnic tables, sanitary facilities, boat-launching ramp and rustic campground. In the past, there was a trappers camp and a workers camp. The lake was called at that time “The Crosswise House Lake”.

KM 518: Rest Area and Access Road to Wemindji (gravel)Picnic tables and sanitary facilities. Wemindji is 96 km west.Interpretation panel: “The hidden treasure of glacial deposits”.



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Wemindji population 1539

819 978-0264 www.wemindji.ca

Situated in the heart of a breathtaking natural environment, Wemindji takes its name from the Cree word meaning “Painted Hills” or “Ochre Mountains” which make up the colourful backdrop of this community. In 1959, after its relocation from its original home on an island in the Old Factory Bay, Wemindji turned into an energetic and thriving community of roughly 1539 residents. At the forefront of the economic development in the region, it is the home of Creenet, the high-speed cable internet provider of the region, and it sells electricity that is produced at the mini-hydro dam on the Maquata River to Hydro-Québec.

In Wemindji you will discover a veritable 4-season destina-tion. The islands as well as the rugged coast of Baie James, in addition to the rivers and lakes of the region are absolutely beautiful. You will find an abun-dance of fauna, from autumn and spring migrating birds in Baie James to belugas, caribou and seals for as far as the eye can see.Wemindji is also a fishing para-dise, as the region’s lakes and rivers are full of northern pike, walleye as well as big lake trout. Visitors to the community can also go canoeing, go on a kayaking excursion or even do some winter camping.Culture and history buffs will be able to participate in the numerous festivities and celebrations, such as our Wallye Fishing Derby, Music Festival, Bluebery Festival, Moose Festival, Old Factory Visit (a culture-filled week of traditional

events at a previous settlement location). These events are held annually or bi-annually, so please consult our web page for more accurate information on exact dates. Visitors to the region, much like locals, never get bored of a walk to the top of one of the nearby hills where they can admire the magnificent view of the sun setting in the distance.

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KM 542: Lac YasinskiPicnic tables, sanitary facilities and scenic lookout. It is the location of one of the most important spawning ground for walleye in Canada.Interpretation panel: “Always on the watch!”.Interpretation panel: “Resources of unimagined wealth”.For a long time, this lake has been the LG-2 residents and workers favourite place to fish. However, the construction of the road destroyed the main yellow walleye’s spawning bed, but it has been redeveloped by installing a lagoon and protecting walls as breakwater.

KM 544: Route Transtaïga IntersectionThis gravel road is 666 km long. There are emergency phones in each one of Hydro-Québec’s settlements (LG-3, LG-4, LA-1 and Brisay). You are 358 km far from Mirage Adventure / Mirage Outfitter (gas, lodging and restaurant).

KM 561: Rivière au CastorPicnic tables and sanitary facilities.

KM 574: Lac Duncan (8 km)Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary facilities and boat-launching ramp.

KM 578Interpretation panel: “Lands of Lichen”, on the northbound shoulder of the highway.Information panel: “The Jack Pine”.

KM 582Information panel: “A Cree moss winter Lodge”.

KM 589: La Grande-Rivière AirportGas, diesel, 100LL, Jet-A available. Open Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. After hours (charge) 819-638-9104

KM 600: Access Road to LG1 Hydroelectrical Power Plant and ChisasibiLG1 is 62 km away and Chisasibi is 84 km away. About 10 km westwards of Chisasibi is Baie James.

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Radisson population 343 ?

819 638-7777 [email protected] Via Route de la Baie-James Km 617

The village of Radisson, perched on a hill at the very end of the Route de la Baie-James, is like an oasis in the heart of the taiga. Founded in 1974 to accommodate workers who were here to complete the “project of the century”, this is one of the rare non native community in Québec north of the 53rd parallel. Over the years, the population of Radisson has fluctuated according to the needs of the large construction sites in the area. After the work was completed, lovers of the Great North stayed on, thus ensuring the survival of the young community. Located in the heart of the La Grande hydroelectric complex, Radisson offers a full range of services and warmly welcomes tourists, fishing groups, hunters and lovers of the great outdoors. See page 4 for the tourist offices.

Interpretation Center(Free Open-house) Complexe Pierre-Radisson, Radisson 819 638-8486 or toll free: 1 800 291-8486 www.hydroquebec.com/visit

Hydro-Québec is one of the largest electricity companies in North America. Hydro-Québec produces, transports and distributes almost all the electricity used in Québec. 98% of its produc-tion comes from hydroelectric power stations, nearly half of which is produced by La Grande complex. Hydro-Québec invites you at its Interpretation Center to complete the guided visits.This permanent exhibition offers interesting perspectives on the natural and human environments that make up the Baie-James territory. It is also an opportunity to increase your knowledge of nature and the production and transportation of electricity. Schedule: open all year round. Average length of a tour: 30 minutes. Admission: Free.

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Robert-Bourassa Generating Facility(Free guided tour) Departure: Pierre-Radisson Complex, Radisson 819 638-8486 or toll-free in Québec: 1 800 291-8486 www.hydroquebec.com/visit

Come admire our world-renown facilities! Hydro-Québec offers you free guided tours of two memorable sites: the Robert-Bourassa development and the La Grande-1 generating station. Before you see these huge facilities, relive the era of great builders with a visit to Robert-A.-Boyd park in french (offered by the Société des sites historiques de Radisson) that pays tribute to the 185,000 workers who built the La Grande Complex.Hydro-Québec welcomes you to the largest underground generating station in the world, Robert-Bourassa generating station (formerly known as La Grande-2). The visit begins with a general presentation of the La Grande Complex. Then, climb aboard a bus for a 25-km ride to discover the spillway, nicknamed “the giant’s staircase”, and the dam, as tall as a 53-storey building! You’ll also descend 137 m underground to visit the generating station. Since it is being refurbished, you might get a chance to see one of the enormous generating units up close!The visit will make you feel proud of these impressive feats achieved right here in Québec!Schedule: June 10 to August 31: Wednesday to Monday at 1 p.m., Tuesday at 2 p.m.; visit in english by appointment only. Please reserve 48 hours in advance. Visitors must present picture ID. Average length of a tour: approximately 4 hours. Admission: free.

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La Grande-1 Generating Station – run-of-river!(Free guided tour) Departure: Pierre-Radisson Complex, Radisson 819 638-8486 or toll-free in Québec: 1 800 291-8486 www.hydroquebec.com/visit

The Robert-Bourassa generating facility, get back on the road with us to the last generating station on the Grande Rivière: La Grande-1. This run-of-river generating station is also home to impressive plant and wildlife environments. It’s a magnificent example of human know-how that is respectful of nature!Schedule: June 10 to August 31: 8 a.m. daily except Tuesday (no visits); visit in english by appointment only. Please reserve 48 hours in advance. Visitors must present picture ID. Average length of a tour: approximately 4 hours. Admission: free.

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Arts & Trésors inouïs65, avenue Des Groseilliers, Radisson 819 638-6969 [email protected] www.artinunat.com

You do not want to miss visiting this boutique which offers some of the most beautiful examples of art objects, jewelry, as well as Native and Inuit artifacts. The boutique’s owners will tell you about the history, origins and legends associated with them. It is the ideal place to purchase souvenirs and feast your eyes on extraordinary art and treasures. Schedule: every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m from Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day (June 24) to Labour Day; closed Mondays from Labour Day to June 24.

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819 855-2878 www.chisasibi.org

Situated on the south shore of Rivière La Grande you will find the modern community of Chisasibi, whose name means “Great River” in Cree. Here the boreal forest merges with the arctic tundra and the waters of Baie James mix with those of Baie-d’Hudson. Thanks to a remarkable setting, Chisasibi offers visitors unforgettable adventures and activities. Outfitters can take visitors by freighter canoe or bush plane to unimaginable places for fishing and caribou hunting. Visitors that are more interested in the surrounding nature and breathtaking landscape can travel up the coast accompanied by an experienced guide and discover the many fascinating places to explore on foot, by canoe, on skis, on snowshoes or by snowmobile.Cultural experiences are everywhere to be taken in. Every summer, nearby Fort George Island is host to a week-long cultural festival known as Mamoweedow. Adventurer seeking to spend a couple of nights in a traditional bush camp, will be delighted to know that local elders are available to guide you and share their incredible stories and local legends and even teach you a few survival skills. In addition to learning about Chisasibi’s stories and traditions, visitors will be able to familiarize themselves with the various plants, berries as well as the unique fauna that are all specific to the region.Located at the very end of the Route de la Baie-James, Chisasibi is the last of the Cree communities in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James that is accessible by road.

Chisasibi population 4282

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819 929-3384 www.whapmagoostuifn.ca

Whapmagoostui is the northern most Cree community – and the only one not accessible by road. It is situated at the mouth of the Grande Rivière de la Baleine. As the only Cree community on Baie-d’Hudson, Whapmagoostui is located on the arctic frontier. This location results is unmatched surroundings as the beautiful marriage between the flora and fauna is not found anywhere in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. Visitors can spend time on windswept beaches, see scattered stands of spruce trees and vast expanses of tundra, as well as picturesque lakes and rivers.

Whapmagoostui population 916

Whapmagoostui – which means “Place of the Beluga” in Cree – is home to about 916 Crees. It is considered as a bi-cultural community adjacent to the Inuit village of Kuujjuarapik which in itself is home to about 525 inhabitants. Up until the 1950’s, Whapmagoostui mostly served as a summer encampment. During the winter months residents lived in smaller camps located further inland. Although permanent installations have been established since 1955, the majority of the residents still head towards their hunting camps in the spring to hunt geese and caribou. Numerous visitors go to Manitounuk Sound, an archipelago just off the coast, for bird watching. Visitors to the community will be able to participate in traditional summer gatherings, go whale watching or, in the winter, do some exciting snowmobiling. Visitors will find accommodations, restaurants, grocery stores, as well as camping equipment stores and equipment rental stores. The Grande Rivière de la Baleine ends at Whapmagoostui, decreasing 45 meters in depth over the last 30 kilometers before slowly flowing into Baie-d’Hudson. Lovers of river rapids will discover an amazing place just as the beluga have – these great creatures gather near the mouth of the river.

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KM 56: Lac Sakami Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary facilities and boat-launching ramp.

KM 59: Lac Sakami Water Overflow Structure Picnic tables, sanitary facilities, fishing and trail.KM 62: Réservoir Robert-Bourassa Rustic campground, picnic tables, sanitary facilities, scenic lookout and boat-launching ramp.

B uilding the La Grande complex required construction of an east-west road, the Route Transtaïga, which has a total

length of about 700 kilometers (435 miles). This gravel road starts a few dozen kilometers south of the La Grande airport terminal and leads to the facilities at La Grande-3 (130 kilo-meters), La Grande-4 (316 kilometers), Laforge-1 (491 kilometers), Laforge-2 (521 kilometers), Brisay (598 kilometers) and, finally, the Caniapiscau diversion structures (661 kilome-ters). The road also provides access to several outfitters. Admire the landscapes of the taiga and be observant—caribou, wolves, lynxes, partridges, and foxes are watching you… Make sure you fill up your gas tank, since you won’t get another opportunity for 358 km.

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KM 100: Access Road to LG-3 Hydroelectric power plant (30 km away) and Hydro-Québec’s Sakami settlement (not open to public) (24 km away). HQ’s scenic lookout.

KM 203: Rivière De PontoisRustic campground, picnic tables, sani-tary facilities and boat-launching ramp. Rivière de la Corvette has been diverted but the bridge kept its name.

KM 286: Lac Cladonia Cargair Outfitter 1 800 371-2371, gas and fuel available (open May to October / Visa, MC and cash).

KM 292: LG-4 Airport(Not open to public).

KM 307: Hydro-Québec Settlement LG-4 Access Road (1 km away).Keyano Camp is at 1 Km away. (Not open to public).

KM 308Hydro-Québec’s scenic lookout.

KM 311: Access Road to LG-4 Hydroelectric power plant (5 km away). (Not open to public).

KM 358: Mirage Adventure / Mirage Outfitter 1 866 339-6202 Open year round. Gasoline, fuel, accommodation, airstrips, hydrobase and helipads. AvGaz and Jet-A available year round.

KM 395: Access Road to LA-1 Homes and the central 38 kilometers away (Not open to public). Hydro-Québec interpretation scenic lookout.

KM 525: Access Road to LA-2 The Central LA-2 is located 6 km (Not open to public), Hydro-Québec interpretation scenic lookout.

KM 582: Brisay Power Plant and Hydro-Québec Housing Hydro-Québec interpretation scenic lookout (Not open to public)

KM 666: Caniapiscau Outfitter1 800 267-9797 This is the end of Route Transtaïga – Duplanter water overflow structure and Réservoir de Caniapiscau. Caniapiscau Outfitter.

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Be preparedThe Route du Nord is an isolated road with limited services where help is sometimes hard to get, so being well prepared is essential.

Emergencies on the Route du NordThere are no emergency phones along the road and cellular phones only get a signal in a few locations along the first section. Only CBs or FM radios and satellite phones work. However, neither 911 or 310-4141 work on satellite phones; you have to call 418 549-5393 to reach the Sûreté du Québec in Chicoutimi or 819 764-6604 in Rouyn-Noranda.

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T he Route du Nord connects Chibougamau to the Route de la BaieJames and to Radisson. Driving on it is an

adventure in itself. As you drive “up” north along its 407 km of gravel, you will notice significant geographical changes and may feel rather disoriented. The bushes will vanish, the forest will thin out and the trees will shrink. The ground will become covered with lichen. The mountains will disappear. You will start to feel smaller and smaller in a huge landscape. A walk in the forest may make you feel very

tall; an interesting sensation produced by the small size of the trees in the land of the Giants.

The Route du Nord was inaugurated in 1993. Built mainly for the development of HydroQuébec’s Eastmain project, it is also used by local logging companies for timber transport. This means that you will be meeting huge semi trailers transporting tons of spruce. The road is also used more and more by tourists looking for new horizons, and by hunters and anglers. In winter, it is possible that you will encounter caribou.

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Cellular phones on the Route du NordCellular phones work almost everywhere up to Km 40. Further along, there are two higher spots where most phones get a signal. Parking areas have been set up there to enable you to safely leave your car to make a call (Km 72 and Km 86).

DrivingThe vehicles you meet sometimes raise clouds of dust or snow that can hang in the air for nearly a kilometer on a windless day. Keep to the right, especially as you near hills; slow down when you meet another vehicle. Be very careful when passing. Make regular stops to stay alert—it will give you time to appreciate the scenery.

What you should bringYour vehicle has to be in perfect condition! You will need a full-size spare tire, the doughnut type won’t last long on a gravel road. One is good; two is better. You should also have windshield washer liquid, a basic toolkit, a first aid kit, food (there are no convenience stores), drinking water, matches and a flashlight. In winter, add anti-freeze, a warm change of clothes and one or two cans of Sterno to the list.

Refuelling the car… and its passengersBetween Chibougamau and Radisson, there are only three places to fill up. Check their business hours! The Nemiscau substation (322 km from Chibougamau) is the site of the Cree Construction Company’s fuel pumps. Open Monday to Saturday, from 7 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. On Sunday, it is open from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.At the Cree village of Nemaska (344 km from Chibougamau), there is a gas station (819 673-2559), open every day from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m., 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Debit cards, Master Cards and Visa credit cards are accepted. The dining room of the inn in Nemaska is open only at meal times (819 673-2615) (From 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.) and closed Saturday and Sunday.You can refuel at the Km 381 rest area (544 km from Chibougamau) (819 638-8502) 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Food and accomodations are also available there.Take advantage of the road. Stop often to admire the scenery all along your journey north.

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Chibougamau population 7656 ?

418 748-2688 [email protected] www.ville.chibougamau.qc.ca Via 167 Highway

In a mountainous terrain, on the shorelines of Lac Gilman, as well as the vicinity of Lac aux Dorés proudly stands the largest community in the Nord-du-Québec: Chibougamau, which name means, “meeting place”. Chibougamau was visited as early as the 17th Century by many merchants, explorers and trappers. Father Charles Albanel also crossed it to reach the Baie-d’Hudson in 1671. One of the numerous lakes to dot the region bears his name.

paradise for fishermen and snow mobilers. Come and enjoy the many activities that occur near Chibougamau: golf, swimming, helicopter tour, paraski, mini-golf and more! (See details in the green section)Contact us for professional services, complete documentation references as well as technical help can be provided to assist you in the planning of your stay in Chibougamau and its surroundings.For tourist information, contact Developpement Chibougamau 418 748-6060.

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The first official exploration mining campaign on the territory was conducted in 1870 by James Richardson. The discovery of a gold-bearing quartz lode in 1903 by Peter McKenzie, a fur trader, generated intermittent waves of intensive exploration of the sector. However, the exploitation of the rich polymetallic deposits (gold, copper and silver) definitely begun in 1955, with the opening of the Campbell Mine, first founded as mining vil-lage in 1953, Chibougamau gained its status of municipal cor-poration in 1954. Although still considered a mining town, its economy gradually diversified over the years and its population slowly developped a strong sense of nordic identity. Today, the forestry industry plays a role as important as the mining industry.Chibougamau has become a center of services for the sur-rounding communities. Chibougamau is also known as a Él

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Geomorphologic SitesDeveloppement Chibougamau 600, 3e Rue, Bureau 2, Chibougamau 418 748-6060 [email protected]

Witness of the passage of glaciers, those spectacular rock formations reveal the mystery of soil formation, one of the oldest on the planet. Many interpretative panels are installed to mark out time signature. The impact of cold water meeting hot lava has created volcanic rocks that are now forming the basis of Parc Leblanc. At Parc Allard, the passage of glaciers has polished the land, in a way you can observe blocks of stratified lava. You also will be able to see rock made of stromatolites.

Obalski ParkWhether walking, biking, snow shoeing or cross-country skiing, you will appreciate the grand beauty of the boreal forest all year round. A trek around the Lac Gilman, will make you discover the secrets of the local flora and wildlife through the numerous interpretation panels doting the paths. You may even bring along your fishing rod to tease the fish! Other paths will lead you to mountain peaks offering panoramic views on Chibougamau, Lac aux Dorés and the vast Lac Chibougamau. You will find belvederes, wharfs, benches, picnic tables and a cabin along your way to enhance your trek. You can reach those paths from the public beach or by the Pavillon Obalski Inmet where you easily may rent equipment to practice your favorite sports such as Alpine skiing and Snowshoeing. Admission: Free.

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Regional Historical Society of Chibougamau646, 3e Rue, Chibougamau 418 748-3124 www.shrcnq.com

The Regional Historical Society of Chibougamau is a private archival service accredited by Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec. The Society’s mission is to preserve and showcase the historical heritage of Chibougamau and Nord-du-Québec, including Baie-James, Eeyou Istchee, and Nunavik. Researchers are free to consult the Society’s archives and artefacts. The Society features both a permanent exhibition and historical trail, which are free of charge. History books are sold on site, including titles such as L’Appel du Chibougamau (“the call of the Chibougamau”) and Histoire du Nord-du-Québec (“history of Northern Québec”). Schedule: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.


Planétarium601, 3e Rue, Chibougamau 418 748-2497 or 418 748-4642

The Quasar Planetarium is truly unique. It is a prototype, a local invention. Unique in Québec, if not in the world. It will make you discover, through special effects, the beautiful constella-tions in our Nordic sky. Located at the Municipal Library, it may receive two to three adults or a small family with animator. Average duration of the visit: 30 to 60 minutes. The Club also owns an observatory located on a peninsula of Lac aux Dorés. A reservation is required for this activity. Admission: Free.

Salle de quilles Bolorama (1991) inc.160, avenue Lafontaine, Chibougamau 418 748-7286 or 1 877 420-5996 [email protected]

Since the founding of the town of Chibougamau, bowling has always been part of the activities offered to its population. Of course, bowling alleys have evolved ever since and our establishment now offers eight fluorescent synthetic alleys, Moonlight evenings with music, children’s birthday parties, a reception room capacity for 50 individuals, pleasure and competition bowling leagues for seniors or people physically disabled. Moreover, we help non-profit organizations with their fundraising activities by adding up different friendly tournaments.

Highway 167 – Release ChibougamauSo, now that you have a full tank of gas, you are ready to leave town on Road 167, heading north. That’s the road to take to reach Route du Nord. On your right, you can see Lac Gilman with its beautiful beach; on the hill to your left is Chibougamau’s hospital. Don’t forget, if you have a CB radio, tune in to channel 23 and regularly announce your presence on the road.

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Highway 167 – Pavillon Obalski InmetPavillon Obalski Inmet (outdoor activities center) is on your right, 4 km from Chibougamau. In addition to ski and snowboard runs, it has a tube slide and provides access to a huge network of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. In summer, it is a favourite haunt of mountain biking enthusiasts.The road to the mines is just past the outdoor activity center. If you have five minutes, turn right and drive for two kilometers. The view is worth the detour.

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Highway 167 – KM 243: Chemin du Lac Chibougamau Nord Turn right on the road to the northern part of Lac Chibougamau to reach outfitters “Camp de pêche Pomerleau” (5 km). Lac Chibougamau is located a dozen kilometers southeast of the town of the same name and 185 km northwest of Lac-Saint-Jean. The lake, which is 35 km long and has an area of 206 km2, is the source of the Rivière Chibougamau and is sprinkled with islands; it has many wide and deep bays, giving it an irregular shape. Explorer Henry O’Sullivan described the gentle slope of its shoreline, interrupted in the north by mounts Sorcier, Paint and Cummings; he noted, in 1895, that Lake Shabokoma had “a total length of 42 miles, which is surprisingly large to have remained unknown to this day.” Lac Chibougamau lies immediately southeast of Lac aux Dorés, from which it is almost entirely separated by Péninsule Gouin, but into which it pours through a short winding passage. The presence of mineral resources, confirmed in 1870, increased interest in the lake and the region. In 1871, surveyor Walter McOuat noted, “we have never seen anything like the chloride schists of lakes Chibogomou and Wakinitchee (Waconichi).” Joseph Obalski, a Québec mine inspector, was the first to use the current spelling for Lac Chibougamau in 1907. The Hudson’s Bay Company moved its depot there from Lac Obatogamau in 1914. The post closed in 1942.

Highway 167 – KM 242: Lac aux Dorés As you cross the bridge, you will see a splendid beaver dam. Take a good look, there’s more than one lodge and if you’re lucky, you may see the beavers hard at work. The Péninsule Gouin separates the lake, which covers 40 km2, from its neighbour, Lac Chibougamau. Lac aux Dorés is the source of the Rivière Chibougamau, which flows into the Rivière Nottaway. A member of the team of prospectors traveling through the area in 1870, James Richardson, briefly described the lake without naming it. In the early 20th century, Cree bands started to settle in the vicin-ity. In 1901, explorer Henry O’Sullivan wrote that the picturesque body of water, with its gently sloping shoreline, was surrounded by high mountains to the north and east. A few years later, several copper, silver and gold deposits were discovered. In 1914, a publication explained that the lake had been named for the main species of fish it contained, yellow walleye or doré, in French.

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Highway 167 – KM 244: Mont CummingsHere is an exceptional panorama giving you a foretaste of what to expect—you won’t be disappointed. On Mont Cummings, there is a white-domed radar station. The lakeshore is dotted with many cottages, several of which are inhabited year round. Past Lac Cummings (km 244), the relief is gentler; 2 transmission lines, supplying electricity to the Cree village of Mistissini, run along the roadside.

Highway 167 – KM 252: Junction of Route du Nord: Réserves fauniques Assinica et des Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-and-Waconichi1584, route 167 Nord, Chibougamau, 418 748-7748, albanel@ se paq.com / www.sepaq.com

You enter Réserves fauniques Assinica et des Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-et-Waconichi’s territory. You remain in this territory from this point to the exit of Réserve faunique Assinica, at Km 162 on the Route du Nord. Less than 100 meters from this junction, on your left, is Rupert registration centre, the main registration centre of the wildlife reserves in Nord-du-Québec’s area. If you plan on staying in this territory for recreational purposes, registration is required.

Sales and reservations at SEPAQ: 1 800 665-6527 Réserves fauniques Assinica et des Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-et-Waconichi have many choice locations for trophy-seeking anglers and lovers of the great outdoors. On this sprawling territory is Québec’s largest natural freshwater lake, Lac Mistassini, 176 km long by 40 km wide in certain places. Breathe in the fresh lake air and enjoy a memorable stay in these wildlife reserves that the word “space” cannot begin to describe… In the past, on this ancestral land, Aboriginal people traded beaver furs for firearms and food. To ensure their protection and access to the whole population, these vast spaces received a wildlife reserve status. They are also part of a great beaver reserve which benefits the Cree Nation. Hunting and fishing of certain species of fish, such as whitefish and sturgeon, is reserved to the Cree community. The reserves are run and operated jointly by the Cree Nation of Mistissini and Sépaq, in conformity with the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement.

Highway 167 – KM 304 – Mistissini road (16 km including 12 km of gravel)Highway 167 ends 100 km further north, at the Lac Albanel campground. Be careful, this last section of the road is gravel.

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Mistissini population 4543

418 923-3466 [email protected] / www.mistissini.ca

Mistissini, the Cree word for “Big Rock” takes its name from the enormous rock that served as a point of refer-ence for generations of Cree. The town is situated on the south-east shores of Lac Mistassini – the largest natural lake in the province of Québec, with its 160 km in length and its 40 km in width in some places. Mistissini is a modern community with a population in excess of 4543 residents. Since the beginning of time, the Mistissini Cree have used Lac Mistassini as a travel route to hunting, fishing and trapping territories. Thanks to its existence, youth and children learn about the way of life of their ancestors. Mistissini is located in close proximity to the largest wild-life reserve in the province of Québec. Mistissini, one of the largest of the nine Eeyou Istchee communities, is home to many regional organizations including: the Cree School Board, the James Bay Cree Communications Society and the Cree Board of Health and Social Services. You will find everything you need in Mistissini, from res-taurants to modern lodging—the Mistissini Lodge is a

4-star hotel with 20 rooms all offereing a view of the lake. You will also find stores, boutiques and financial services. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the region and do some fishing, canoeing, or simply, some photography to immortalize the spectacular views that the surrounding nature has to offer. For those who are a little more adventurous, you will find charter services offering camping, fishing or snowshoeing in an untamed environment.

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Highway 167 – KM 252: Route du Nord (km 0)Turn left to really experience the Route du Nord.

KM 4: Waconichi CottagesThe road on the right leads to the Lac Waconichi cottages, managed by the SÉPAQ.

KM 31: Baie Pénicouane On the right, 8 km from the intersection, you will see Baie Pénicouane. This magnificent site consists of a narrow bay with the look of a fjord; it is an extension of Lac Mistassini. A guard will welcome you at the entrance. There is a campsite, a boat-launching ramp with a dock.

KM 39: Réserve faunique AssinicaYou are now entering the Réserve faunique Assinica. Its name comes from the Cree word Asinikaw, meaning “full of rocks”.

KM 43: Fork ahoy! Take a left toward Nemiscau substation (242 km).

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Lac Mistassini area © Mathieu Dupuis. Snowmobile © Mathieu Dupuis


KM 62.6: Rivière Brock The river’s name was proposed by geologist E. D. Kindle while he was working in the area. In Old English, brock means badger or more likely wolverine, the now legendary preda-tor from the same family.

KM 66: Lac Samuel-Bédard About a dozen kilometers long, Lac Samuel-Bédard is the principal source of the Rivière Brock Nord.

Samuel Bédard owned the farm in Péribonka where writer Louis Hémon spent the summer of 1912. Bédard and his wife Laura may have been the inspirations for the father (Samuel) and mother of the Chapdelaine family in famous novel, Maria Chapdelaine, which Louis Hémon completed in Montréal the following spring.

KM 72: Cellular-phone Parking Area

KM 86: Cellular-phone Parking Area

KM 89: Beaver Logging CampAlthough forest workers only live there from May to September, there are almost always road maintenance employees at the camp. Help is almost always available there in an emergency.

KM 98: Lac RegneaultStretching from southwest to northeast, this lake is a little less than 20 km long. It lies at the eastern extremity of the Rivière Broadback’s drainage system, to which it belongs. It is characterized by the presence of eskers on its western shoreline.

KM 102: Châtillon Logging Camp RoadIf you are in trouble, you can get help here; the camp is about 1 km down the road.From the main road, you can see short sections of the old logging road along which the Route du Nord was built.

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KM 108: Troïlus Mine Road (44 km) It was an opencast gold mine that is now closed. The view features several small lakes nestled in a huge valley, including Lacs Charbonneau and Bugon.For the last few kilometers, you have been able to see the transmission lines of the La Grande complex. These 735,000-volt lines transmit the power produced by the generating stations at Brisay, Laforge-1, La Grande-4 and part of the power from La Grande-3.

KM 129: Broadback Logging CampOn your left is the access road to Chantiers Chibougamau’s Broadback logging camp, which is 50 km away.

KM 131: Rivière BroadbackIf you stop near the bridge; you can see a small road leading to the riverbank, on the left. One of the major rivers flowing into Baie James, the Broadback runs into it through Baie de Rupert, in the heart of the Cree village of Waskaganish. It rises in Lac Frotet and winds westward for 451 km between the Rivière Rupert, to the north, and the Rivière Nottaway, to the South. The Cree call the river Chistamiskau Sipi, meaning deep river.

KM 132: Chéniapiscau Rest areaIt has picnic tables, sanitary facilities and a scenic lookout.

KM 162: End of the Réserve faunique AssinicaAt this point, you have driven about 181 km from Chibougamau. If you have a provincial fishing license, from this point on you can cast your line at any time.

KM 221: Lac Mesgouez Full of islands and peninsulas that make it a bit of a maze, Lac Mesgouez is a huge widening of the Rivière Rupert, which flows into Baie James through Baie de Rupert. The lake, which is 50 km long, 4 km wide and covers 132 km2, is located more than 100 km northwest of Lac Mistassini and about 30 km northeast of Lacs Villon and Camousitchouane. It has a boat-launching ramp and sanitary facilities.

KM 238: Rivière Rupert Rest areaThe bridge spans some rapids that are worth a closer look! There are picnic tables, sanitary facilities and a scenic lookout. Boardwalks lead to fishing sites and the rapids. The Rivière Rupert is fed by Lacs Mistassini and Albanel and their tributaries. At the outlet of Lac Mistassini, the river widens into a considerable number of large lakes with many islands that form a real maze.

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KM 241: Rivière Bras de RupertTake a look at the lovely valley of the Rivière Bras de Rupert.

KM 258: Albanel SubstationTurn left to reach Nemiscau substation and the Cree village of Nemaska. You are now 148 km from the intersection of the Route du Nord with the Route de la Baie-James.

KM 286: Collines Lescar Rest area It has picnic tables, sanitary facilities and a scenic lookout with a great view of the valley and Nemiscau substation.

KM 288: Hydro-Québec’s Nemiscau Transformer SubstationKM 290: Gas StationOn your right is the Cree Construction Development Company’s gas station. Open Monday to Saturday, from 7 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 6:30 p.m. On Sunday, it is open from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 5 p.m.

KM 291: Access Road to Nemiscau SubstationThis is also the road leading to the jobsite of the Eastmain-1 hydroelectric development project, about 70 km away. (Not open to public)

KM 296: Access Road to the Village of Nemaska (10 km)Fuel, accommodations and food are available there. You will be in Category II land once you have driven 2 km past the intersection, which means that hunting and fishing are prohibited without a pass from a Cree outfitter. In the village of Nemaska, there is a service station open every day from from 9 a.m. to 12 a.m., 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

KM 298: Nemiscau Airport

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Nemaska population 731

819 673-2512 www.nemaska.com

Located right in the centre of Eeyou Istchee Baie-James, Nemaska is often referred to as the “Heart of the Cree Nation”. In fact, from this community of 731 people you can travel easily to the other communities of the region, although most prefer staying in the region to explore the surrounding wilderness. The community of Nemaska, which means “Where fish abound” is nestled on beautiful Lac Champion. It is a wonderful place to relax while taking in the natural beauty of the surroun ding territory.Visitors who are a little more adventurous will be thrilled to know that the community can supply all the services, material and information you need. Experienced hunters and trappers can help visitors find the best spots for whatever activity they desire, from white-water kayaking

to wilderness camping or even sport fishing. Visitors can take a plane to one of the region’s beautiful lakes for an exceptional backcountry adventure. During the winter, visitors can navigate the many snowmobile trails that wind through the vast territory. During the summer months, visitors to the community can partake in canoe expeditions as well as activities associated with the yearly gathering at Old Nemaska, an official heritage site.Nemaska is one of the smallest Cree communities of the region. After the Hudson’s Bay Company closed their last trading post in 1970, the residents were dispersed into adjacent communities. Seven years later, former residents resettled in what is now today’s modern village. Nemaska is an important administrative hub and is home to the Grand Council of the Crees and Cree Regional Authority head offices.

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KM 381 : Lac BoisrobertBoat-launching ramp, rustic campground, sanitary facilities, picnic tables.

KM 407: End of the Route du NordYou have now reached the road leading to the Route Transtaïga, Radisson and Chisasibi. The intersection is at Km 274 of the Route de la Baie-James, which means that it lies 274 km north of Matagami.

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Living in Chibougamauit’s choosing to take your time

The regional Obalski parkat the heart of the municipality

Ville deChibougamau

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• Visites culturelles• Hébergement traditionnel• Festivals• Artisanat• Repas traditionnels• Excursions et forfaits• Motoneige et VTT• Randonnée pédestre• Sentiers de raquette 1 888 745-3905

• Cultural Visits• Traditional Lodging• Special Events• Arts & Crafts• Traditional Feasts• Excursions and Packages• Snowmobiling & ATV• Walking Trails• Snowshoe Trails

Tourisme

Oujé-BouGoumou Tourism

www.ouje.ca

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www.mistissini.caTelephone : 418 923-3466 | [email protected] www mis| info@mistissini ca

Nation Crie de MistissiniCree Nation of Mistissini

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Michèle PerronDirectrice générale

596, 4e Rue Chibougamau (Québec) G8P 1S3

(418) 748-7621 • www.csbj.qc.ca

Parce que l’élève est au cœur de notre avenir…

11-0146-CS_Baie_James_2012_FR.indd 1 11-12-02 07:48

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WACONICHIFISHING AND ADVENTURE30 MINUTES FROM CHIBOUGAMAU

ReservesFauniques.com/AMW1 800 665-6527

FISHING WITH STAY IN A CABIN

$80 /day/pers.quadruple occupancyWeekdays during low seasonPlus taxesST

ARTI

NG AT

Walleye | Northern pike | Lake trout | Speckled trout

RECONNECT WITHQUÉBEC’S NATURE

NATION CRIEDE MISTISSINI

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Lebel-sur-Quévillon

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Setting on the peninsula of Lac Quévillon, Lebel-sur-Quévillon has remarquable assets allowing its visitors a chance to live an urban experience in the very heart of nature! In the course of each season, let the natural beauty of this territory surround you! Discover the numerous outdoor and leisure activities offered in this town. You’ll be astounded by the immensity of the forest, the breathtaking landscapes and the warmth of its people.

Snowmobilers, fishermen and hunters, nature lovers or adventure seekers, Lebel-sur-Quévillon is the place to seek for a northern experience where nature and adventure rime with freedom!

For more information call (819) 755-4826 ext. 212 or (819) 755-3363 www.lebel-sur-quevillon.com

• Restaurant with a menu of 6 choices of the day : 5 am to 10 pm

• 22 rooms available with free wireless internet access and complete bathroom

• Possibility of pension with meals (minimum of 3 consecutive days)

• Gas station with diesel available and convenience store open from 5 am to 11 pm• Situated at the intersection of roads 113 and 167

Relais Lac Caché Pétro-Canada

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ᐃᓂᓕᐅᕐᓃᑦRÉSERVATIONSRESERVATIONS1 800 361-2965

ᖃᖓᑦᑕᔫᓂᒃ ᐊᑦᑕᑐᐊᖃᕐᓂᖅVOLS NOLISÉSCHARTERS1 800 661-5850

ᐅᕙᓂ ᐱᒋᐊᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᕕᒃVotre porte d’entrée au NunavikNunavik Starts Here

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Meet Crees and the 11 aboriginal nations of QuébeC. explore riCh and distinCt Cultures.

delve into anCient traditions. learn about ConteMporary

aboriginal lifestyles.

a uniQue opportunity froM QuébeC aboriginal tourisM.

www.aboriginalquebec.com

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A REAL-LIFE SHOW Venture into the heart of the taiga and discover the splendours of northern landscapes and colossal hydroelectric facilities.

You will be blown away by the scale of the Robert-Bourassa development, home to the biggest underground generating station in the world, a dam as tall as a 53-storey building, and a giant spillway, nicknamed “the giant’s staircase”! Travel to La Grande-1 generating station to see the work being done against the backdrop of nature.

To visit Hydro-Québec’s facilities, call 1 800 291-8486 or go to hydroquebec.com/visit.

Aside from visiting the Robert-Bourassa generating facility and Robert-A.-Boyd park, be sure to spend some time in Radisson. Located north of the 53rd parallel, it’s the gateway to a unique northern adventure. You can practice various activities such as fishing, snowmobiling, hunting and hiking. For information about camping services, restaurants and accommodation in the region, call us at 819 638-7777 or send an e-mail to [email protected].

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU!

Spillway

Robert-Bourassa generating station is being refurbished. You may get a chance to see part of the huge generating unit up close!

Robert-A.-Boyd Park

Robert-Bourassa generating station

Caribou

La Grande-1 generating station

Northern lights

Guided tours

www.hydroquebec.com/visit

FHYP14-009 • HYDRO-QUÉBEC • ANNONCES VISITES GUIDÉES • INFO: ST/NDPUBLICATION: GUIDE TOURISTIQUE OFFICIEL DE LA BAIE-JAMES • VERSION: ANGLAISE • FORMAT: 10" x 7-1/8" • COULEUR: CMYK • LIVRAISON: 5 MARS • PARUTION: ND / RÉVISION

Localité de Radisson

FHYP14-009 VisitesGuidees_AnnDPS_BaieJames_REV.indd 2 14-03-06 09:38

65

A REAL-LIFE SHOW Venture into the heart of the taiga and discover the splendours of northern landscapes and colossal hydroelectric facilities.

You will be blown away by the scale of the Robert-Bourassa development, home to the biggest underground generating station in the world, a dam as tall as a 53-storey building, and a giant spillway, nicknamed “the giant’s staircase”! Travel to La Grande-1 generating station to see the work being done against the backdrop of nature.

To visit Hydro-Québec’s facilities, call 1 800 291-8486 or go to hydroquebec.com/visit.

Aside from visiting the Robert-Bourassa generating facility and Robert-A.-Boyd park, be sure to spend some time in Radisson. Located north of the 53rd parallel, it’s the gateway to a unique northern adventure. You can practice various activities such as fishing, snowmobiling, hunting and hiking. For information about camping services, restaurants and accommodation in the region, call us at 819 638-7777 or send an e-mail to [email protected].

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU!

Spillway

Robert-Bourassa generating station is being refurbished. You may get a chance to see part of the huge generating unit up close!

Robert-A.-Boyd Park

Robert-Bourassa generating station

Caribou

La Grande-1 generating station

Northern lights

Guided tours

www.hydroquebec.com/visit

FHYP14-009 • HYDRO-QUÉBEC • ANNONCES VISITES GUIDÉES • INFO: ST/NDPUBLICATION: GUIDE TOURISTIQUE OFFICIEL DE LA BAIE-JAMES • VERSION: ANGLAISE • FORMAT: 10" x 7-1/8" • COULEUR: CMYK • LIVRAISON: 5 MARS • PARUTION: ND / RÉVISION

Localité de Radisson

FHYP14-009 VisitesGuidees_AnnDPS_BaieJames_REV.indd 2 14-03-06 09:38

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June 19th-28th, 2014Chapais : [email protected]

Fishing is my passion, the Festival du doré Baie-James, is my destination !

• Biggest fishing tournament (15th edition) • Family activities and shows for all

• More than $135 000 in prizes to be won • Situated at Opemiska Lake, 10km from Chapais

• Free parking, info booth, sanitary block• Concrete boat ramps

• Pedestrian trail linking to Opemiska Camping • Bicycle path

Fishermen and professionals, you are invited to come tease the Baie-James’ walleye!

www.mirageaventure.com

1 866-339-6202www.mirageaventure.com

1 866-339-6202

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MUSÉE MINÉRALOGIQUE

REFUGE PAGEAU CITÉ DE L’OR

ABITIBI-TEMISCAMINGUE-TOURISM.ORG

...A great start to a great vacation !

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Gold sponsors

Tourisme Baie-James and Eeyou Istchee Tourism present the:

Tourism attractions of less than 25 000 visitorsAanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute

Festivals and Tourism events of less than $ 300 000 Festival Folifrets Chibougamau Baie-James

Accommodations of less than 40 unitsMaquatua Inn

Accommodations of 40 to 149 unitsMotel du Lac

Accommodation Holiday CottageGîte de la rivière

Tourism servicesFaunENord

Tourism employeeGilbert Baribeau

Tourism supervisorPatrick Forward

Tourism PersonalityMarie-Christine Mailhiot

Gold Prize-winner

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■✓ A collection of 20 offi cial Quebec tourist guides■✓ Suggested itineraries■✓ Full details on attractions, events and accommodation■✓ Everything you need to plan your stay!

es

Our network of touristinformation centres off ers you

EventsCULTURE

NATURE Hunting and Fishing

Foodservices Accommodation

Consult the list of our information centron page 4, or look for these roadside signs:

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M any travellers are thankful for the existence of Highway 113. Before it was built in 1967, mine and

forest workers from Abitibi had to make a major detour to reach the mines and logging camps of the Chibougamau-Chapais area. Can you imagine? From Val-d’Or, they had to

drive down to Montréal, over to Trois-Rivières and up past Lac Saint-Jean to finally reach the Chibougamau-Chapais area, a 1200 km expe-dition! Today, on Highway 113, the trip from Abitibi to Chibougamau takes less than 4 hours.

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The junction of Highway 167 and the northern end of Highway 113 is about 10 kilometres south of Chibougamau. The trip from Chibougamau to Matagami will take you past the Cree community of Oujé-Bougoumou (about 30 km from Highway 113), the town of Chapais, the Cree commu nity of Waswanipi, the villages of Miquelon and Desmaraisville and the town of Lebel-sur-Quévillon. From that point, a 90-km drive on a recently renovated logging Road, R-1005, leads to Matagami and the Route de la Baie-James. Take care, just like on the Route du Nord, you will probably meet huge semi-trailers on the way.

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Ouje-Bougoumou population 750

418 745-3905 [email protected] / www.ouje.ca

Ouje-Bougoumou is a relatively new community as construction of the village was only completed in 1994. However, it is a community with a long history. Over a period of 50 years, residents were forced to relocate 7 times to make place for mining activities. Nowadays, Ouje-Bougoumou, which means “The Place Where People Gather” in Cree, welcomes visitors from the four corners of the world. On the 50th anniversary of the United Nations in 1995, this community of 750 residents received a United Nations’ award for excellence given to the top 50 communities around the world that best displayed the UN’s values and objectives.Located on Lac Opémiska, Ouje-Bougoumou was designed and built in accordance with the Cree vision of living in harmony with their environment and culture. This philosophy is apparent throughout the village, from the innovative architecture designed by the reputed Canadian architect Douglas Cardinal, to the central heating system that converts sawdust from the local sawmill into energy. The community is also home to the Cree Cultural Institute, also called Aanischaaukamikw. This institute houses the Cree Nation’s cultural and archaeological heritage and be the site of numerous innovative and stimulating cultural activities. Aanischaaukamikw is above all a center that incorporate Cree cultural and language programs aimed at members of the Cree community.

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Visitors who are enticed by Cree history and culture can spend time in the cultural village where they will experience a traditional feast as well as learn about the art of local artisans. For adventure seekers, the opportunity to accompany a Cree hunter and his family is a wonderful way to learn about the Cree way of life. Visitors can even fashion their own pair of moccasins or snowshoes. Photo-graphers and nature lovers can surround themselves with the breathtaking northern scenery. Visitors can also practice catch and release fishing on the local lakes and rivers. The community is in the planning stages for construction of a future Eco-Tourist Resort that will allow visitors to examine alternative ways to visit and learn about the region.

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Chapais population 1659

418 745-2511 [email protected] / www.villedechapais.com

Located along provincial Highway 113, which links the regions of Abitibi-Témiscamingue and Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean, the Ville de Chapais is one of the main gateways into Nord-du-Québec. The city’s history goes back to 1929, when prospector Léo Springer found rich copper, silver and gold deposits in the area. The city was constituted in 1955 under the Québec Mining

Act. Opemiska Copper Mines, the main employer at the time, was responsible for providing services and operating the municipality. Originally a mining town, Chapais diversified its economic activities with the launch of a sawmill in 1974. Today, Barrette-Chapais Ltd is among Canada’s most productive forestry com-panies. It employs over 500 people and has enabled the city to survive the partial exodus that occurred in 1991 when the mine closed. Determined to ensure their community’s development, the people of Chapais have optimized the use of forest biomass by launching the first cogeneration plant in Quebec. This system produces electricity from sawmill residues – an eco-logical power-generation alternative. In recent years, city residents have become increasingly involved in the development of tourism attractions, which contribute to the region’s economic recovery and diversification.Surrounded by a vast, untainted, and energy-rich natural environment, Chapais is an outstanding leisure and vacation setting that is sure to thrill outdoor enthusiasts year round. Summer offers tremendous sportsfishing, aquatic activities, swimming, hiking, biking, and four-wheel adventure opportunities. In winter, snowmobiling (off-trail or on federated trails), ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing come to the fore.

Western gateway into the city

Native cemeteryAt the western gateway into the city, there is a Cree cemetery. Located in a forest of pine trees, the cemetery was designed in accordance with Cree Nation traditions. Nearby, located in the Catholic cemetery, there is a memorial in honour of the 48 victims of the 1980 New Year’s fire. The monument is lit up at night, in tribute to the memory of the victims. A few metres from the site, a commemorative park was also created to mark this tragic event.

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Parc de la ChuteParc de la Chute is a location that is much-appre-ciated by tourists and residents. This green space, which features a body of water, man-made falls, and rest areas, is ideal for relaxation and renewal. Every summer, the stream is enriched, and the community organizes a day of fishing. Given its location at the foot of the former mine, Parc de la Chute bears witness to Chapais’s mining history. Indeed, a memorial in honour of Léo Springer, the prospector whose work led to the city’s founding, is located nearby.

Bike pathCycling enthusiasts love the 11-kilometre bike path located in the heart of the boreal forest. The rock-dust track links the city of Chapais and Lac Opémiska. It follows a sinuous forest path through moss and lichen, a former mining site, and several streams that are a typical trait of the region. In win-ter, the bike path turns into a cross-country ski trail.

Eastern gateway into the city

Paths at Lac Campbell and Mont SpringerWhether you like to go exploring or simply go for a hike, you will be dazzled by our network of forest paths, showcasing the region’s flora and animal habitats. There are 2 circuits, total-ling nearly 12 kilometres in length; they feature interpretive signs, viewpoints, and picnic tables and benches. The first circuit is accessible to all visitors; it goes around Lac Campbell and features several scenic lookouts. The second circuit, which leads up Mont Springer, is more physically demanding. When they arrive at the peak, hikers are rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view of the region. In winter, come and discover these paths on your snowshoes!

Adventure trailLocated at the start of the Lac Campbell hiking path, there is a fun adventure trail that is sure to please the whole family! Come climb over, crawl under, and walk in balance on structures made of natural wood in the heart of the boreal forest.

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Waswanipi population 2080

819 753-2587 [email protected] / www.waswanipi.com

Waswanipi is the southernmost of the Cree communities and is the gateway to the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James mainland. The name Waswanipi is Cree for “Light over the Water” referring to the traditional methods used by residents for night-time fishing on rivers and the luring of fish to the lantern light or to the torches used. Nowadays, the modern community of Waswanipi organizes events and festivals throughout the year. These include a celebration of the community “Waswanipi Day” in June as well as the annual gathering at the site of the old community in July. In addition, outfitters offer fishing expeditions beyond compare as well as year-round outdoor adventures. The region is surrounded by hiking trails and cross-country skiing trails in the winter. You can also find bush camping sites, crystal clear lakes and numerous rivers that will please even the most enthusiastic canoe users and kayakers. While Waswanipi residents still partake in traditional activities such as hunting, fishing and trapping, a flourishing art and handicraft industry has since developed. Souvenir hunters and collectors will be able to purchase decorative shoes, mittens and snowshoes.

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Miquelon and Desmaraisville

The hamlet of Miquelon lies along the shores of the Rivière O’Sullivan linking Lacs Waswanipi and Pusticamica, at the junction of the road leading to Chibougamau. Algonquin Natives called this place Pakitamakak – above the mountain –. The name Miquelon was given to the hamlet in honour of Jacques Miquelon, Québec minister of Lands and Forests in 1960. You will want to admire the waterfall that flows under the old railroad. Some 25 km north of Miquelon, you cross the small mining township of Desmaraisville. This agglomeration was established on the fringes of the Canadian National Railroad linking Abitibi and Lac-St-Jean, via Chibougamau. The name, initially given to the post office of the village, was attributed to the hamlet in honour of Mgr. Aldée Desmarais, former bishop of the Amos diocese.

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Lebel-sur-Quévillon population 2 735 ?

819 755-4826 [email protected] www.lebel-sur-quevillon.com

Nestled in the south part of the territory, on the shores of beautiful Lac Quévillon, lies Lebel-sur-Qué villon. The lake’s name is linked to Louis-Amable Quévillon, a master carpenter/architect who decorated many churches in Québec. The first part of the town’s name comes from Jean-Baptiste Lebel, from Clova who, in 1948, opened the first sawmill in Rapide-des-Cèdres, 10 km from the current location of the city. In busiest times, the mill employed up to 1,200 people. In the beginning of the sixties, Domtar was looking for a location to set up a kraft pulp and paper mill. The richness of re sources and quality of the black spruce tipped the scales in favour of this region. A town was born, providing services and a good quality of life to many workers living in Lebel-sur-Quévillon. The high zinc, copper, silver and gold content in its soil enabled Lebel to diversify its economy, which up to then consisted mostly of forestry. Lebel-sur-Quévillon is a place of surprises known as much for its hunting and fishing as it is for hiking trail including along the majestic Lac Quévillon.Whether it’s to relax, enjoy the quietness, a beautiful sunset or a star lit night, Lebel-sur-Quévillon is the perfect place for lovers of wide open spaces.

Lebel-sur-Quévillon Beach and Marina910, boulevard Quévillon 819 755-4826

Located less than a kilometer from down town Lebel-sur-Quévillon, a huge beach with fine golden sand is a favourite to swim mers and other aquatic-sport lovers. Safety is a primary concern for all activities: pedal-boating, canoeing, or kayaking; rentals available on site. Visitor lodge and volleyball are also available on site.

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J ust 25 km North of La Sarre, at the 49th parallel, we find the Vallée de la Turgeon which is wedged between the Abitibi

hills to the west and the Collines Fenouillet to the east. In the past occupied by the Algonquin people and covered with virgin forests, this ter-ritory was colonized and cleared by Europeans who were fleeing the chronic unemployment associated with the economic crash of 1929.Since no roads had been built, the first men arrived by barge on the Rivière Turgeon in 1935. Through time, 3 parishes were founded, that is

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to say St-Joachim-de-Beaucanton and St-Camille-de-Villebois in 1935, as well as St-Éphrem-de-Val-Paradis in 1942. Today, the Vallée de la Turgeon has become a tourist attraction that is characterized by its relics from the colonisation period and its natural wonders which allows the practice of many outdoor activities all year round.


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Val Paradis pop. 271 – Villebois pop. 244 – Beaucanton pop. 231

Val Paradis, Villebois and Beaucanton 819 941-2034, [email protected] Via routes 111, 393 and N-810 (Route des Conquérants)

Cultural tourist attractionsThe Vallée de la Turgeon is proud to count, still today, 5 covered bridges within its territory. These bridges are of the architectural style known as “Town Québécois”, because it is a style of bridge which is found exclusively in Québec. Among these bridges we find the only pony style bridge in Canada. A covered bridge with no roof! A must see, and along the way we invite you to read the interpretative signs installed near each bridge.The Vallée de la Turgeon is blessed with two patrimonial churches. The one in Beau can ton, a church made of field-stones and in the “Dom Bellot” architectural style was built between 1940 and 1948. The one in Villebois, the church St-Camille was built in 1949 and where you will find a chapel dedicated to St-Benoit-Labre, unique in Québec. In Villebois, we also find a replica of the barge “Rosanna“ which was used by the first Europeans to navigate on the Rivière Turgeon. There is also “La Porte de la Baie James“ a monument which commemorates the first winter road giving access to the Baie-James area. Built in 1967 it was constructed under the direction of the “Ordre des Conquérants“. Today the N-810 road north of the village follows this historic undertaking.

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Natural tourist attractionsIn addition to the many boat ramps that give access to our many aquatic environments, we find two places where it is possible to enjoy nature along maintained trails. To the east of Villebois, within the Collines Fenouillet, there are several trails (30 km) which give access to ancient caves and panoramic views of the Valley. Certain trails can be used by mountain bikes and also horses, especially during the yearly Labour Day weekend James Bay Horse Festival.In the west, within the Collines Abitibi, we find the Lac Imbeau area where it is possible, along the interpretative trail “Le Feu réplique (Fire retorts)“, (3.5 km) to learn the various important roles that fires play in the boreal forest. Also, along the path “Le Roc raconte (The rock counts)“ (3 km) you can, by observing relics of last the glaciation (ancient beaches, erratic blocks) learn about the geological and human history of the Valley. Also, in this area there is a canoe- camping circuit, as well as several group campsites and a picnic area that are accessible by ATV.


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Finally, a new audio-interpretative water circuit has recently been installed along the Lac Imbeau shoreline. In order to enjoy this unique audio experience, Mp3 players with the audio track, canoes and kayaks can be rented at the Lac Pajegasque campground .Finally, the territory is furrowed by many snowmobile and VTT trails, which give access to the attractions of the Valley as well as north-eastern Ontario and Nord-du-Québec. Come enjoy our many trails, with our natural and cultural wonders, we guarantee you will come again and again!


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84 Information up to date as of fall 2013. Please call to confirm before making a long trip.

Events

Beginning of JuneWestern Festival of Lebel-sur-Quévillon Lebel-sur-Quévillon, 819 755-2525The Lebel-sur-Quévillon equestrian club hold the 35th edition of its Western Festival beginning of June. Western saddle Gymkhana competitions and an English saddle horse-jumping contest will be held during the 3-day event. Attractions also include a dance evening, Quévillon artist stands, the canteen, inflatables, clowns and face-painting for kids, horse-riding excursions, and tours of our stables and equestrian path. Between $5,000 and $10,000 in prizes and awards to be won.

June 19 to 28James Bay Walleye FestivalChapais, 1 877 846-2020 [email protected] / www.fes ti val du dore.com

Fishing is my passion and the James Bay Walleye Festival

is my destination!The largest fishing tournament is now in its 15th edi-tion. The program includes family activities and shows for spectators of all ages. Over $135,000 in prizes and grants to be won. The site is located at Lac Opémiska, 10 kilometres from Chapais, and offers extensive free parking, concrete launching ramps, a reception office, a comfort station, a hiking path to the Opémiska camping site, and a bike path. Amateur and professional anglers are invited to come test their skills on James Bay walleye!

June 21Aboriginal DayChibougamau, 418 748-7667 [email protected] event is both cultural celebration and bridge to intercultural understanding. The day begins with a walk-ing out ceremony where young children take their first official steps into the community. This is followed throughout the day by games and demonstrations of talent, crafts demonstrations and workshops as well as a makoushan – feast, where all are welcome. Join us!

June 23Festivities for St-Jean-Baptiste DayLebel-sur-Quévillon, 819 755-4826Whether to assist to the traditional parade and the bonfire or to participate in a friendly soft ball tournament, we invite you to celebrate and let the presentation of our mega fireworks fill your heart with joy.

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You are invited to explore Eeyou Istchee Baie-James while participating in events!

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Events

July 31 to August 3Festival en aoûtChibougamau, 418 748-2688, poste 2243 [email protected] great cultural summer event is the largest in the Nord-du-Québec. Taking place in the heart of the town, on an outdoor scene, this popular festival attracts more than 5000 people on a daily basis during its 4 days of celebrations. More than 50 artists from Nord-du-Québec are here to give great performances as well as professional groups. Many activities such as our special family day, spectacular fireworks, a senior’s day, a beach volleyball tournament, a triathlon, an art exhibition and many more are presented to the public. So come and enjoy yourself!

August 1 to 3Festival nautique Lebel-sur-Quévillon, 819 [email protected] Festival held at the municipal beach. Various beach activities, including a vol-leyball tournament and horseshoe tourna-ment as well as various categories of water racing. Dance evenings on Friday and Saturday.

August 8 to 10 Waswanipi Old Post Fishing DerbyWaswanipi, 819 753-7208 www.waswanipiderby.comThis is a sport-fishing competition (Wallye & Northern Pike) that draws nearly 400 competitors from in and outside the region. Prizes total more than $100 000.

August 29 to September 1Festival du cheval de la Baie-JamesVillebois, 819 333-4727/ 819 333-9202In the enchanting surroundings of Mont Fenouillet near Villebois, come and enjoy a variety of equestrian activities organized in this 12th edition of the Festival du cheval de la Baie-James. Horse enthusiasts come together for beautiful rides, lunches in the forest and friendly competitions in the ring. Carriage rides are also offered on site. There is a bar on site as well as restaurants that serve traditional cuisine with music and entertainment during the evenings; in addition, you’ll find 80 rustic camping sites with water for the horses.The horse owner lovers will be able to ride the trails at all times, as long as they obtain the Mount Fenouillet membership card. Open from May to October. Welcome to all.

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January 24Super Rallye minounesChibougamau, 418 748-3065 or 418 770-7890 www.motoneigechibougamau.ca

January 28 to February 1 Tournoi Hockey mineur de ChibougamauChibougamau, [email protected] Tournoi hockey mineur de Chibougamau is coming to its 39th edition and provides to numerous players of the region, the opportunity to play in a major tournament in front of parents and friends. From January 28 to February 4 2015, 300 volunteers and 400 players will put their efforts together for the success of this tournament. Here is an opportunity to bring together diverse communities from the region.

February 14Défi polaire des minounesChapais, 418 770-7372 [email protected] www.club mo to neige.comThis 60 km snowmobile ride crosses through woods over a surfaced trail off the organized trails. The participation of antique snowmobiles is emphasized, not speed or performance. Everything takes place in a pleasant family atmosphere. The winners of the race are determined by card draw (Poker) and participants can win over $5,000 in prizes.

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FebruaryThe Boreal Raid 418 770-8351 [email protected] www.escapadeboreale.comThe “Raid” covers nearly 1,000 km. A support team ensures safety throughout the event. Over $10,000 in prizes to be won. The ultimate objective is to cross the region along Route 113 between Lebel-sur-Quévillon and Chibougamau. It is not a race. The goal is to complete as many stages as possible in a limited time frame to increase your chances of winning. Mutual aid, coopera-tion, and communication among the “raiders” is encour-aged and always present. The goal is not to arrive first but to arrive on time!

Beginning of MarchBeaucanton Winter CarnivalValcanton, 819 941-2101Snowmobile rally, crowning of queen, various games, music, other activites. There will be many surprises.

Beginning of MarchFestival Folifrets Chibougamau Baie-James Chibougamau, 418 770-6135 [email protected] www.festivalfolifrets.comNine days of winter celebrations where dancing, performances, animations as well as the duchess crowning take place. Without forgetting “La Randonnée du Président”, the biggest antique snowmobile hike in North America where ATV fans can participate. A Cross Country race of 320 km for pros and 180 km for fans is also planned.

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Information up to date as of fall 2013. Please call to confirm before making a long trip.

Beginning of AprilTournoi Invitation BarretteChapais, 418 745-2294 [email protected] www.curlingopemiska.com The fourth edition of the Tournoi Invitation Barrette will be held at the Chapais Curling Club. This tournament attracts more than 130 curlers from all regions of Québec. More than $7,000 to win in awards and prices. Whether you are a curler or a spectator, come and enjoy the Tournoi Invitation Barrette.

April 17 to 19Interregional Bowling Tournament InvitationChibougamau, 1 877 420-5996 / 418 748-7286 [email protected] high calibre competition takes place in the Salle de quilles Bolorama in Chibougamau and attracts more than 300 people from everywhere in Québec. Men and women from different regions of Québec will compete to win bursaries reaching up to $30,000 in prizes. The great champions of pins in Québec come to measure their talents with our people of Chibougamau. Come to see these candidates at work, you won’t regret your move.

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2013 Bowling Tournament Winner Mr Jacquelin Brisson, Ste-Monique

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March 30 to April 5The Great Wind Trail418 770-8351 [email protected] / www.escapadeboreale.com

Lac Waconichi, a biodiversity reserve, welcome you. With its log cabins and large wood-heated common room, this enchantingly secluded getaway awaits you for a week of

adventure, bliss, and new friends. The Great Wind Trail is not only a one-of-a-kind kitesurfing event – above all, it’s an unforgettable personal experience.


Culture and heritage Culture and heritage

Table touristique de la Vallée de la Turgeon2709 boul. Mc Duff, local B, Beaucanton 819 941-2034 [email protected] and cdevvbj2@@tlb.sympatico.ca

Hydro-Québec Complexe Pierre-Radisson, Radisson 1 800 291-8486 www.hydroquebec.com/visitFree guided tours of the power stations.

Guided visits

Cultural tours

Villebois-Valcanton covered bridgesCorporation de développement économique de Villebois-Valcanton 819 941-2180 [email protected]

Yesterday our meeting places and sites for posting notices, they are today a part of our heritage. Built with local materials in the traditional Town style, the Maurice-Duplessis (1948), Taschereau (1943) and des Souvenirs (1954) bridges all span the Rivière Turgeon. The Pionniers (1943) bridge crosses Leslie Brook. Magnificently preserved, the bridges of Villebois-Valcanton are still in excellent condition and can be crossed in a car, on bike or by foot. Their wooden structures are engraved with love messages written by young couples seeking a place to hide from indiscrete onlookers.

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L’audio-circuit de la Vallée de la Turgeon819 941-2180 or 819 941-2034 [email protected] to some tools (CD, map and road signage) the innovative tourism product L’audio circuit de la Vallée de la Turgeon: une balade en auto avec Raôul Duguay, it is now possible to leave on a safe adventure in the V.V.B. sector without having to worry about getting lost or missing even the smallest historic detail. Mr. Duguay, an experienced story-teller, chronologically lists the different settlements, while guiding the driver-listener towards the most beautiful and inspiring heritage sites and the major components of the valley’s history. The audio-circuit has allowed us, not only to conserve an oral history of the settlements, but also to develop it.

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Arts and crafts

L’« Ore » de Chez Nous23, 3e Avenue, Chibougamau 418 748-3558Primary and secondary processing of local products is important in a resource region, but this product is rather unusual. The rock under our feet

contains many raw materials, including pyrite and other sulphides as well as garnet—not to mention gold. Following where his imagination leads, Mr. Charles Chabot uses these minerals to create uniquely crafted regional items. His creations are available at Tabagie Merril and his home.

Anne-Marie Allard, painterChibougamau, 418 748-4682 [email protected] and amallard.artacademie.comOriginating from Chibougamau since 1973, the artist his taking her inspiration mainly from the lakes, the surrounding forest and their particular colors from the northern sky that reveals the hugeness of the “jamesienne” lands or seize a small space or a privileged moment. You can buy her work at the artist’s studio on 255 rue Laframboise.

Guy Lalancette418 748-4682 [email protected]’s by adoption, Guy Lalancette has published 6 novels with text editor VLB (Victor Levy Beaulieu) since a dozen of years. His books won three times the “Roman” Price and had been finalist at 4 national and international prize winning contests. Two of his stories won some liter-ary prices from Radio Canada Broadcasting.You can easily find and buy his books at Librairie Ungava.

Les Arts en nord255, rue Laframboise, Chibougamau 418 748-4682Members of this artist/artisan collective are active in the following artistic pursuits:

violin-making, wildlife painting, realist and/or abstract (watercolour, acrylic, oil, mixed media, hot wax, stained glass, on canvas, rock, cloth, wood and glass), jewellery (moose and caribou antlers, precious and semi-precious stones, beads), mineral stone carving, recovery and trans-formation of wood furniture, ornamental ironwork, cos-tume repair and production, sculpture (bust and mask, wood, moose and caribou antlers, various materials), photography (community, tourism, wildlife, landscapes), drawing (pencil, dry pastel, oil pastel), murals and decors, origami, natural wood and stone artworks, crafts (sewing useful articles), textile arts (hand-stitched quilting and handmade decorative objects), cards, transformation of objects, music (piano courses, flute and recorder, singing, writing (novel, non-fiction, poetry), and theatre.In addition to taking part in the community’s cultural life, it organizes an arts and crafts trade show on Novem-ber 22nd and 23rd 2014. Le salon des Arts en nord at Hôtel de Ville de Chibougamau (Chibougamau City Hall Arts North Trade Show). Are you looking for something for a special occasion? Call and let yourself be guided and inspired.

Idée-Bloc ChibougamauChibougamau, 418 748-4556 [email protected] materials between everyone, moose, caribou and deer antlers are the base of the wildlife northern sculp-tures fabricated by Léo-Paul Larouche himself. They also are the base of jewellery made by Selma Bourdage. These works of art are avail-able at their residence or by appointment.

Pierre Bureau, pastellistChibougamau, 418 748-4642 [email protected] / pierrebureau.artacademie.comIt is by creating the scenery of an animated movie, at the end of the course I took in Visual Arts while attending Laval University (Québec) that I discovered dried pastel. The sky, the clouds and all theses special atmospheres interested me since my childhood. Since 1976, Chibougamau saw the birth of many hundreds of my work of art as well as a unique planetarium. Astronomy is at the heart of my life as much as it is at the heart of my creations. Sometimes I create nebulas. Each drawing becomes an adventure.

Kazumi FurukawaChibougamau, 418 748-7325 [email protected] Kazumi Furukawa is a japanese artist living in Chibou gamau since 2008. Her watercolor paintings express an emotion of calm and sobriety. Her favourite subjects are the scener-ies of Nord-du-Québec and domestic animals.

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Culture and heritage Culture and heritage

Cree Native Arts and Crafts Association418 [email protected] / www.cnaca.ca

Since it’s founding in 2004, the Cree Native Arts and Crafts Association has played a leadership role in the development of Cree arts, crafts, and culture. CNACA represents the Cree artists and artisans of Eeyou Istchee Baie-James, a region located in Nord-du-Québec covering

about 350,000 quare kilometers (a huge territory rough-ly the same size as Germany). CNACA’s mission is to grow and diversify a sustainable arts, crafts, and cultural industry in Eeyou Istchee by: preserving traditional handicrafts such as the making of snowshoes, tamarack decoys, mittens, and spruce baskets; encouraging contemporary means of expression, including painting, sculpture, music, video, and dance; and sustaining Cree culture, values, traditions, and skills.

Moose-hide Clothing For generations, smoked moose hide has been one of the most important raw materials for creating clothing that is both functional and beautiful. In the severe cold of a northern winter, survival depends on materials that offer protection during the long hours spent hunting, fishing, and travelling on the land. Although modern materials are now more widely used, nothing has replaced the value that the Cree place on smoked moose-hide, especially for mittens and moccasins. The production of traditional moose-hide clothing encompasses a vast range of skills that includes hunting, skinning, smoking, cutting and sewing into garments, and creating beautifully executed patterns expressed through colourful beadwork and embroidery.

Tamarack Goose Decoys Tamarack goose decoys are delicate sculptures of various sizes made by binding the fragrant twigs of the tamarack tree into the likeness of the Canada goose. For millennia, the Cree of Eeyou Istchee used decoys made from wood, mud or coarse willow twigs to attract the large floçks of geese that migrate along the Baie James coast. Today, tamarack goose decoys

are crafted as decorative objects of art that serve as a proud symbol of Cree culture and their hunting way of life.

Stéfanie Thompson, painterRadisson, 819 638-9264 or 450 275-2160 [email protected] www.stefaniethompsonpeintre.com

Now, a Radisson resident, in the James Bay territory, she paints since she first could hold a paint brush. She now lives from her pas-sion. Known for working with shades of bright colors and research of texture through her designs by inte-grating elements such as driftwood, caribou antlers, ptarmigan and partridge feathers, just to name a

few. She works with water based paints such as acrylic, inks, water-colors, wood stains and texturizing mediums to create the results she’s expecting. She is always in the pursuit of giving a unique souvenir with her artistic vision, incorporating unique elements of the territory. You can purchase unique paintings, small canvas on wooden easel, northern inspiration paintings, paint souvenirs, cards and also special requests. Her creations make her an artist in constant search of artistic challenges and also a unique and distinctive product!

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Brenda Levesque, painterChibougamau, 418 748-2140 [email protected] from Chibougamau since 1995, Mrs. Brenda Levesque is passionate about nature and its wildlife.

She uses rocks picked up from hiking to paint animals in 3D. She also uses other tools to create her work of art wood, glass, canvas.

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Culture and heritage

Cree Trappers Association (CTA)C.P. 250, Eastmain, 819 977-2165 [email protected] The Cree Trappers Association (often referred to as the CTA) was created at the time of the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement (1975). The purpose of the CTA was to protect and promote the interests of the Cree hunters and trappers, and generally support their wildlife harvesting activities.

Aboriginal experience

Aanischaaukamikw – The Cree Cultural Institute205, Opemiska Meskino, C.P. 1168, Oujé-Bougoumou 418 745-2444 [email protected] / www.creeculturalinstitute.caMany indigenous cultures, histories, and languages, even in Canada, have disappeared as the Elders have passed on. Aanischaaukamikw flows from the knowledge that Cree culture must be captured, maintained, shared, celebrated, and practiced or it will wither and die, and from the vision of Cree Elders.

Museum Chibougamau Eenou Friendship Centre95, rue Jaculet, Chibougamau, 418 748-7667 [email protected] place for abori ginals in transit from neigh-bouring communities and those living in town, the Chibougamau Eenou Friendship Centre offers a variety of services and activities to its community members. A numbe r o f e ven t s like Aboriginal Day, the Intercultural Friendship Week, Friendship Golf Tournament and Youth Gala of Excellence are open to the public and provide excellent oppor-tunities for Natives and non-Natives to extend a hand of friendship and understanding. A mini exposition and period photographs of local families are on display throughout the main floor and stairwells. The crafts boutique contains an excellent selection of cultural objects, jewellery and Native-inspired products locally made, primarily by Cree craftspeople.

Val-d’Or Native Friendship Center1272, 7e Rue, Val-d’Or819 825-8299 www.caavd.caApart from being an urban service hub, the Val-d’Or Native Friendship Center offers an interesting array of original and authentic Aboriginal products. Purchasing a souvenir is like extending your stay with us. Our products constitute excellent gifts: jewelry, books, dream catchers, herbal tea, sculptures, etc. Don’t miss our permanent exhibition by Aboriginal artists: 35 pictures recounting historical facts on the presence of Aboriginal people in the Val-d’Or area. Also available, food and lodging service.

Québec Aboriginal Tourism50, boul. Maurice Bastien, local 220, Wendake418 843-5030 or 1 877 698-7827 [email protected] / www.aboriginalquebec.comQuébec Aboriginal Tourism offers you a unique opportunity to experience the richness, iversity and authenticity of Aboriginal cultures. Delve into ancient traditions and discover the contemporary aboriginal lifestyle.Be it ethno tourism, adventure travel, outings, cruises, hunting and fishing, traditional or contemporary lodging, Northern cuisine, cultural institutions, crafts, and much more—find out what the Crees and the 10 other Québec Aboriginal Nations have to offer.

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Aanischaaukamikw has been developed in collaboration with all ten communities in Eeyou Istchee, and “completes the circle” of the Baie James Crees’ quest to exercise full control over all aspects of their lives, communities, and cultural destiny.It is a museum, archive, library, teaching centre, and cul-tural centre, and a virtual hub designed for high-powered interactivity and fuelled by a major multi-community fibre optic network.Aanischaaukamikw will be the Crees’ primary location for preservation of documents, media, and physical objects, designed for preservation, conservation, and knowledge transfer.

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Nature and outdoor activities

Lebel-sur-Quévillon equestrian club 100, chemin des Étangs, Lebel-sur-Quévillon 819 755-2525 [email protected] Équestre de Lebel-sur-Quévillon has been in operation since 1976. Each member owns stables or has a rental or half-board arrangement. Our passion is English and Western style riding, jumping, trekking, harnessing, and Gymkhana competitions. The Club holds a Western festival in June of every year; this is a fun and enriching equestrian event designed to promote equestrian sports and physical activities. On request, we open our doors to youths and older folks who would like to discover our stables, animals (horses, dogs, and cats), and riding path. If you share our passion for horses, come see us.

Mécanique Sports Plus942, 3e rue, Chibougamau 418 748-1155Rental all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles, recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, power saws, generators, toolsRepair all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles, recreational vehicles, outboard engines, trailers, power sawsSale all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles, recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, power saws, generators.

Riding

Recreatif equipment, location, sell and repairs

Our huge northern territory is ideal for aerotour-ism and seeing Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region from the air. Most pilots are surprised by the quality and quantity of our airport facilities and infrastructures. Our cities and communities have landing strips and planes can land on most bodies of water.

Hélicoptères Canadiens Ltée956, boul. Hamel, Chibougamau 418 748-2602 [email protected] www.canadianhelicopters.comTransportation by helicopter, carters, medical evacuation, exploration of mines, recreational flights, specialized services; serve the entire James Bay territory and Canada.

Whapchiwem HelicoptersRadisson 819 638-7904 [email protected] High end tourist flights. Helicopter transport, charters, medivac, mining exploration, specialized services all over the Baie-James territory and Canada.

Aerotourism

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Nuuhchimi WinnuuOujé-Bougoumou, 418 745-3212 or 418 745-3629 [email protected] and David Bosum invite you to experience this extra ordinary environment enhanced by their hospitality and expert guidance. Upon your arrival in Oujé-Bougoumou, you can choose to stay at our modern lodge or in a traditional dwelling. As our guests we will guide you through both the modern and traditional villages and out into the rich and varied landscape. The arrival of summer is celebrated at the end of May with the annual Goose Festival, featuring dance, fiddle music, ceremonies, and, of course, a feast. Winter brings its own celebrations and activities such as a wellness journey and our winter carnival. The main winter festival takes place in February. If you visit us then, you may want to try a five-day journey along ancient trails on snowmobile and follow our experienced guides on a snowshoe trek.

Escapade boréale418 770-8351 [email protected] www.escapadeboreale.comDreaming of escaping in a vast space shaped by your passions? Your dreams can come true in the Nord-du-Québec. By focusing on quality, Escapade Boréale organizes exciting events that brings their participants to surpass themselves in a secure and comfortable setting. The Great Wind Trail, the Boreal Raid, no matter what passion you have, there is an event that will interest you.

Excursions / Adventures

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Écolodge Lac Matagami42 chemin du lac Matagami, Matagami, 819 739-8231 [email protected] www.ecolodgelacmatagami.ca

Enjoy a truly northern experienceDiscover the land, nature, and culture of Eeyou Istchee Baie-James.Stay at Canada’s first eco-lodge on the shores of majestic lac Matagami for an immersive experience in the boreal wilderness. Trek over footbridges, spend time on private beaches, and take part in activities with expert guides. Explore our lake on a sailboat, canoe or kayak and the landscape on snowshoes or cross-country skis. In the evening, dip into a Nordic bath.Visit our tree farm, which showcases the riches of our forested lands. Near downtown Matagami on the shores of the rivière Bell, this site offers “glamping” (glamorous camping) and traditional camping accommodation and an opportunity to discover many outdoor and agroforestry activities.Savour the delights of our local cuisine. Discover the traditional way of life in this region. Excursions or relaxation, individuals or groups, special events, team-building exercises, meetings, strategic planning sessions – whatever your needs, we can create a perfect package for you!

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Lac Imbeau audio-interpretative circuitValcanton, 819 941-2666 or 819 941-2034 [email protected] Come and enjoy the one and only audio-interpretative water circuit in Québec. While paddling along the Lac Imbeau shoreline, Mr Eau LaSource, your virtual guide, will tell you natural, geological or human stories



Public Beaches

WaterbodyAccess fees

Picnic table

Eeyou Istchee Baie-James

Beaucanton, Corporation plage & camping du lac Pajegasque Lac Pajegasque • • A B C Free 819 941-2666 (campground) or 819 941-2471 (off season)

Chapais, Camping Opémiska Lac Opémiska • • Free 418 745-3428

Chapais, Municipal beach of Lac Cavan Lac Cavan • Free 418 745-3289

Chibougamau, Municipal beach of Chibougamau Lac Gilman • • A C Free 418 748-7195

Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Municipal beach of Lac Quévillon • • A B C Free Lebel-sur-Quévillon 819 755-3363 (campground) or 819 755-4826 (off season)

Matagami, Camping du lac Matagami Lac Matagami • • Free 819 739-8383 (campground) or 819 739-2030 (off season)

Location A: Canoe B: Kayak C: Pedalboat

These beaches participate in the bathing water-quality monitoring program of the Québec ministry of the environment and are supervised by qualified lifeguards. All other beaches are unsupervised.

Game aera

Nautical Circuitconnected to this area. The circuit, that lasts 1h30, is made up of 12 stops along the lake with each stop having its corresponding audio capsule. Let yourself be enchanted by this unique landscape that is recovering from a 1997 forest fire. MP3 players with the audio track, as well as canoes and kayaks, can be rented at the Lac Pajegasque campground, 4 km south of Lac Imbeau.

FaunENordChibougamau, 418 748-4441 [email protected] / www.faunenord.orgFaunENord specializes, among other activities, in natural environment interpretation. The team consists of biologists and bioecology technicians who are passionate about nature. We provide training in mycology, ornithology, and forest survival skills (winter and summer). In addition, we provide multiple guided nature interpretation tours. Our guides invite you to discover the world of birds, observe carnivorous plants, taste aromatic plants with a dizzying array of flavours, and see nature as you have never seen it before. Choose among our existing packages or add a personal touch to your nature tour: enjoy a meal cooked over an open fire, go for a mountain hike, take part in a “bug safari,” and much more. Call us to reserve your magical moment in the boreal forest.

Wildlife observation and interpretation

Interpretation of the environment © FaunENord

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Canoeing

Canoe accessed course of the Vallée de la TurgeonVillebois, 819 941-2034 [email protected] The Vallée de la Turgeon offers canoe and kayak amateurs numerous courses that immerge visitors in the Baie-James’s history and vast nature.

The Lac Turgeon Tour (23km, 1-2 days, easy)[email protected] On the Lac Turgeon, time stops to allow enthusiastic paddling and rowing fans to contemplate the horizon. Splendid bodies of water in the boreal forest and exciting natural sites can be seen. A few little islands sprinkled here and there allow stops and well-deserved rest periods among old cedars. The Lac Turgeon, a little gem of the site to explore!

The Pioneers Circuit (25km, 1-2 days, easy)[email protected] Come and trace back the paths of the first Vallée de la Turgeon pioneers! In 1935, at the arrival of the pioneers, it was at the start of the course that the road stopped. The pioneers, in order to rejoin their parcels of land, had to undertake the rest of their trip following the Rivière Turgeon by barge. The circuit crosses a rural scenery with many colonization vestiges especially the passing of the 4 covered bridges which makes the course unique and memorable.

The Rivières Turgeon and Boivin (74km, 3-4 days, easy to moderate)[email protected] With its native and colonization vestiges as well as its exceptional diverse ecosystems, this course allows the discovery of the different aspects of the Baie-James territory. Several rapids mark the course, each with a developed portage trail and camping sites. Here is a secured course with easy access for rowing and paddling fans who love diversity!

Circuit canotable du Lac GilmanChibougamau 418 748-4441 [email protected] www.faunenord.org An audio interpretation tour, along a canoe route, titled La nature nous parle! (“Listen, nature is speaking!”) is offered at Lac Gilman. We invite you to travel by canoe or kayak on a journey of discovery through lush natural surroundings and enjoy entertaining stories about truly colourful characters. Our tour guides take turns as they tell you about a wide variety of interesting topics, including biodiversity in the park, Native cultural and traditional practices, the park’s history, and much more! The tour is appropriate for everyone. No matter what your age, we’re sure you’ll have fun!

École de voile Matavoile125 boul. Matagami, Matagami 819 739-3354, 819 739-8534 or 819 739-8080 www.matavoile.comMatavoile is located at the southern edge of James Bay, making it the perfect launching point for exploring majestic lac Matagami in a sailboat. Thanks to its many fine sand beaches (which are among the most appealing in Quebec), its limpid waters, and breathtaking sights, the lake’s 37-kilometre waterway is one of our northern region’s must-see attractions.From June to October, treat yourself to a one-day sailing course on a 26-foot live-in sailboat. Here’s your chance to learn the basics of sailing. Or take up the challenge of a live-aboard cruise of up to 5 days, leading to a basic cruising standard accreditation for weighted dinghies. You can also ask for a custom excursion to fit your specific needs. Thanks to our experienced and enthusiastic captains, you’re sure to experience a thrilling adventure in complete safety. Welcome aboard!

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Take a few hours to play a game of golf or hit a few balls. Yes, you can play golf in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James and many visitors are surprised by the quality of our golf courses.

Golf

For pleasure or out of necessity, all terrain vehicles are used everywhere in this territory. Some towns and communities have opened trails for adepts of this sport.Club Quad Les Lynx du [email protected] all adventurer and nature lovers, our ATV club will certainly fill all your expectations. Chapais’s Club Les Lynx du Nord offers 56 km of paths, divided as follow: Chapais-Lake Cavan: 7,6 km, Chapais-Opémiska: 12,9 km, Chapais-Bridge St-Jean: 35,4 km. This last section is part of the trail linking Chapais and Chibougamau. To access the region, you can take the following utility roads: Barette Sud, La Tuque-Cooper-Nicabau and St-Thomas-Didyme-Chibougamau. A 12 km winter trails is following the south shore of the Lac Opémiska starting from the town of Chapais. We offer the service of accom paniment with patrol craft for groups (need reservation). Obligatory: you have to be a Quad member to use the trails.

Club Quad du Vrai NordVillebois, 819 941-2112 or 819 941-2173 [email protected] in 2004, the Club Quad du Vrai Nord unites the southern sector of the Baie-James region (Villebois and Valcanton). The organization of excursions in our 350 km of organized and signalised trails is our main activity in the summer season. A picnic area and some campsites are available in ATV in the sector of the Lac Imbeau and of Mont Fenouillet.

Golf Club of Chibougamau130, rue des Forces-Armées, Chibougamau 418 748-4709 [email protected] golf course with a normal of 36. Length in yards: 3391. Open from May to mid-October. Reservation sug-gested. Services: restaurant, bar, club rental, cart rental, shop, practice green, lessons and hall rental.

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Cycling is an interesting alternative to touring in a motorized vehicle. A regular bike or mountain bike is a sporty way to tame the land.

Mountain bike paths

Obalski Park Chibougamau 418 748-4441Obalski regional park features several kilometres of hiking and mountain biking paths. The Kiwanis path, which is 9.4 kilometres long, circles around Lac Gilman and Petit Lac Gilman and leads to other paths along the way. Interpretation panels located throughout the park provide interesting information about the boreal forest and reveal the secrets of its wildlife and plant life. You can gain access to the park from the municipal beach or from the Obalski Inmet pavilion. Admission: free.

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Bike rental

Bike rentalMatagami rental office 100, place du Commerce, Matagami 819 739-4566 [email protected] / www.matagami.com

Family activities

Giant Chess game651, 3e Rue, Chibougamau 418 748-2225A chess club, called “Les fous de la tour de glace”, offers to the population and tourists the chance to play chess on a giant chessboard with plastic pawns of 36 inches in height. The game is located on the Mini-golf course and rental services are available on site.

Club de curling Opémiska188, boulevard Springer, Chapais 418 745-2294 [email protected] www.curlingopemiska.comThe Club de curling Opémiska is offering its entire popu-lation, as well as organisations and businesses in the region the opportunity to come out and try their hand at a fun sport in an amusing and enjoyable environment. In fact, curling is a great activity for the whole family to enjoy,

from beginners to experts. The season, which begins in November and goes until the end of April, will be marked by numerous tournaments with the intent of bringing this winter sport more into the limelight.

“Mini-golf à son meilleur”651, 3e Rue, Chibougamau 418 748-2225Come have fun with us! You can play our 18 hole mini-golf, rent roller-blades or a bike. You want to spend good times with your family or your of a group? You can organize your day or night mini-golf tournament with our top lighting system. This service is carried by La Corporation Le Zéphir for mental health giving the chance to students and to all its clients to live a valued work experience. While having fun, you support them in pursuing their good work.

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h Area picnic / Rest area Y Bicycle trail x Campsites r Cross-country skiing & Hiking trail î Interpretation Interpretive panels d Mountain bike trail Â Pets allowed ] Playground q Scenic view, lookout ó Snowshoeing Q Trail ride K Wharf

Hiking

Level of difficulty

Total length (km) (Each site can have several paths)

Trail recognized by the Fedération québécoise de la marche

Access feeVigilance hunting season

Activities and services

Access period

Source: Fédération québécoise de la marche, Directory of sites running in Québec, available to www.fqmarche.qc.ca

Levels of difficulty

l Easy n Intermediate u Difficult


Chapais, Lac Cavan Trails 5 l • May to Â q 418 745-3289 October

Chapais, Lac Campbell Trails 4.8 l • All year h Â q î ó 418 745-3289 long

Chapais, Mont Springer Trails 10 n • h Â q ó 418 745-3289

Chibougamau, Obalski Park Trails 37 n • All year • h q î K ó d418 748-4441 long r

Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Lebel-sur-Quevillon trails 16 l • May to Â q Y &819 755-3363 / 819 755-4826 October

Matagami, Recreational aera of Lac Matagami 30 n • All year Â î & ó 819 739-4566 long www.matagami.com [email protected]

Matagami, Bell-Nature Trails 3.5 n • All year h ] Â q î Along the Rivière Bell and rapids long & ó 819 739-4566 www.matagami.com [email protected]

Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Governement 1 l • May to q î Km 232, Route de la Baie-James October Along the Rivière Broadback 819 739-4473www.greibj-eijbrg.ca [email protected]

Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Governement 0.5 l • q Km 257, Route de la Baie-James Along the Rivière Rupert 819 739-4473www.greibj-eijbrg.ca [email protected]

Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Governement 0.9 l • May to q Km 395, Route de la Baie-James October Along Rivière Eastmain819 739-4473www.greibj-eijbrg.ca [email protected]

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Source : Fédération québécoise de la marche, Répertoire des lieux de marche au Québec, disponible à www.fqmarche.qc.ca

Niveaux de difficulté des circuits

l Facile n Intermédiaire u Difficile



Level of difficulty

Total length (km) (Each site can have several paths)

Trail recognized by the Fedération québécoise de la marche

Access feeVigilance hunting season

Activities and services

Access period

Source: Fédération québécoise de la marche, Directory of sites running in Québec, available to www.fqmarche.qc.ca

Levels of difficulty

l Easy n Intermediate u Difficult


Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Governement 0,7 n • May to q Sentier KM 467, Route de la Baie-James October Leads to the Pont de l’Eastmain819 739-4473www.greibj-eijbrg.ca [email protected]

Val Paradis, Trails near Lac Imbeau 12 n • May to q h x îRelics of the last glacier September 819 941-2101

Villebois, Trails among the Collines Fenouillet 20 l n • May to q d Q ó 819 941-2180 u October

Radisson, Hudson Ecologic trail 3.9 l u All year Â h ]819 638-7777 long q ó r [email protected]

Geese in flight © Réal Lavigne

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carte motoneigeSNOWMOBILING MAP2013-14

Come snowmobile with us!escapelikeneverbefore.com1 855 328-2026

Venez faire de la motoneige chez nous !decrochezcommejamais.com1 855 328-2026


The Eeyou Istchee Baie-James region is a desti-nation of choice for snowmobilers. The region offers exceptional conditions for this activity. Discover the gran diose spectacle of the boreal forest over 1100 km of organized trails. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you can get off the beaten path and expe-rience the thrill of cross-country snow mobiling.Contact Tourisme Baie-James to get your snow mobile trail map, our snowmobile packages and circuits at 1 888 748-8140 or [email protected].

Snowmobile excursions

Mirage Adventure / Mirage OutfitterKm 358, route Transtaïga 1 866 339-6202 info@ mirageaventure.com / www.mirageaventure.com Rentals available, guide service. Of February 1 to mid-April (non-hunting season), Mirage also offers snowmobile safaris to caribou country. An unusual experience in the middle of the Taïga and Tundra region to discover grandiose landscapes with a chance to see caribous and wolves. Real “off-roading” safely framed. Reservations required.

Nord Expé418 825-1772 www.nordexpe.com Nord Expé are winter adventures by tourism producers specialized in off-road expeditions for snowmobile fanatic, they got a travel agent permit from Québec and are also partners with the SEPAQ for the development and promotion of the wildlife reserves territories. Since 2010, Nord Expé got involved in the development of long term projects in tourism industries and have shared responsibilities with the aboriginal people of Eeyou Istchee Baie-James.

Pourvoirie Radisson LG-249, rue Iberville, Radisson 819 638-7363 [email protected] www.pourvoirie-radisson-lg2.comDiscover the land of endless snow and wide open spaces! Radisson Outfitters offer packages that include caribou, grouse of hare hunting, ice fishing or photo-safaris in the heart of the taiga, until the end of April. Groups of 4 persons or more with guide. Snowmobile rentals.

Winter fun

Off Trail Snowmobile © Tourisme Baie-James

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Winter fun

Club de motoneige de ChapaisResponsibles: Jacques Bérubé and Martin Blanchet 418 770-7372 [email protected] www.clubmotoneige.com

Club d’auto-neige de ChibougamauResponsible: Mario Simard 418 748-3065 Relais du Nord, 418 770-5175 www.motoneigechibougamau.ca

Club de motoneige de Lebel-sur-QuévillonResponsible: Claude Blais 819 755-3453 or 819 755-4531

Club de motoneige de MatagamiResponsible: François Cossette 819 739-3334 in season and off-season.

Club de moto neige de RadissonResponsible: Marc Bonneau 819 638-8383 or 819 638-9131

Snowmobile clubs

Cross-country skiing

Matagami trails100, place du Commerce, Matagami, 819 739-4566 [email protected] / www.matagami.comAt our office, it is possible to rent cross-country and expedition skis and all the equipment you need to practice these activities. Trails for all level of skiers. We also offer a trail for the skate skiing amateurs.

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Hunting and fishing

Eeyou Istchee Baie-James is the place where the most wonderful fishing stories come to life. Here, proud fishermen boast their impressive catches. In fact, our region’s diversified aquatic wildlife makes it a preferred destination for fishermen of all calibre. The hydrographical network comprises of a vast number of water stretches in all sizes, including the Lacs Mistassini and Albanel where many prized fishes are captured every season. The most sought out species for sport fishermen are the Walleye, the Pike, the Brook Trout and the Lake Trout. Winter fishing, in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James, is a well appreciated activity. In heated fishing shacks or simply on ice, this activity reveals to outdoor lovers a pleasant way of fishing.Hunting is also a very popular activity in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. In the heart of the region’s wilderness where the boreal forest turns progressively into taiga, you feel you can see forever. Large and small game, waterfowl, and migrating birds – alone or as part of a group, hunt your prey of choice. As for the caribou hunt, it is truly the thrill-seeking hunter’s ultimate experience.Eeyou Istchee Baie-James outfitters invite hunters, anglers, and adventurers to enjoy a unique experience in a vast northern landscape. Services provided at each of the outfitting operations in the region are described in the following section.

Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune du Québec (MRNF) The mission of the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune is to promote knowledge acquisition and to ensure the development and optimal use of land, energy, forestry and mineral resources in Québec from a sustainable development perspective, for the benefit of the entire population. The Department is involved in the following activity sectors: territory, wildlife, forests, mines, energy and land survey. For the wildlife section, responsabilities undertaken by the Department are mainly to assure a management and control in exploitation, survey and use of the wildlife resources.

The regional Direction of the wildlife Sector is located at 951, boulevard Hamel Est, ChibougamauYou can reach the staff of the wildlife protection and equipment Management at the following telephone number: 418 748-7701.The staff of the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune du Québec wishes you a pleasant stay in the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James area.

RegulationTo hunt or fish in the Nord-du-Québec region, you must respect the Law on hunting and fishing rights in James Bay and Nouveau-Québec territories. The James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement (1975) and the North-East Québec (1978), calls for special land administration of the territory. Category 1 and 2 lands are reserved for use by the Natives (refer to the map at the end of the guide). You must therefore obtain the necessary authorizations from the appropriate band councils to hunt or fish there. On the other hand, these activities are permitted on Category 3 lands like elsewhere in Québec. There is, however, one notable exception: you cannot trap or hunt fur bearing animals. In addition, certain species of fish, like coregonids, are reserved for Natives. North of the 52nd parallel, non-residents of Québec must call on the services of an outfitter. Random draws: Random draws for hunting big game are held annually. Hunters can register for two types of randow draws, i.e. to obtain a limited-access hunting license (caribou) or to obtain a hunting stay in a wildlife sanctuary. Specific rules apply to each draw. To obtain information, get in touch with Sépaq by calling at 418 890-6527 or 1 800 665-6527.To obtain the complete regulations or for more information on hunting or sports fishing in the Nord-du-Québec region, contact the:

PoachingWe urge you to report any hunting, fishing or trapping activity that does not comply with Québec regulations, by calling SOS Poaching at the following toll free number: 1 800 463-2191Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune du Québec Secteur FauneDirection régionale du Nord-du-Québec 951, boulevard Hamel Est, Chibougamau 418 748-7701 www.mrnf.gouv.qc.ca

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To obtain topographical maps of the region, a fishing license or all kinds of equipment for hunting and fishing, you can call one of the following authorized dealers:

Centre 2 MRC 191, 3e Rue, Chibougamau, 418 748-8137

Dépanneur Super Sonic990, 3e Rue, Chibougamau, 418 748-2369 [email protected] station.

Distribution Radis-Nord57, avenue Des Groseilliers, Radisson, 819 638-7255

Mirage Adventure / Mirage OutfitterKm 358, route Transtaïga, Baie-James, 1 866 339-6202 [email protected] / www.mirageaventure.com

Sépaq1584, route 167 Nord (accueil Rupert), Chibougamau 418 748-7748 [email protected] / www.sepaq.com

TrakMaps9675, Côte de Liesse, Bureau 100, Dorval, 1 877 861-8725 [email protected] / www.trakmaps.com

pub. p. 59

Mécanique Sports Plus 942, 3e rue, Chibougamau, 418 748-1155Rental all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles, snowmo-biles, recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, power saws, generators, toolsRepair all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles, recreational vehicles, outboard engines, trailers, power sawsSale all-terrain vehicles, side-by-side vehicles, snowmobiles, recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, power saws, generators

Rentals, mechanics and sale of snowmobiles, ATVs and outboard engines

Topographical maps, fishing licenses, equipment

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Eeyou Istchee Baie-JamesChapais, Le Vent du Nord Italian, Canadian, seafood $$ 1-2-3 50 † 6 E181, boul. Springer, 418 745-2564 [email protected]

Chibougamau, Le Relais du Lac Caché Québec, Seafood, Fast food, Canadian, Fish. $$ 1-2-3 100 † E – Pétro-Canada, Intersection on the road 113 and 167, 418 748-6432 [email protected]

Chibougamau, Chibougamau Inn Skewer house, Grilled steak, Seafood, Health food. $$$ 1-2-3 150 † 6 E 473, 3e Rue, 418 748-2669

Chibougamau, J.C. Bou Outfitter Canadian, Québec. $$ 1-2-3 22 æ † E km 211, route 167 Sud, 418 748-2720

Chibougamau, Restaurant Family and Fast food. $$ 1-2-3 90 3 6 E chez Raymonde 858, 3e Rue, 418 748-4800

Chibougamau, Restaurant Le Borée Canadian food $ 1-2-3 110 † 6 E – Auberge Boréale 926, 3e Rue, 418 748-3283

Chisasibi, Asiipii Restaurant Canadian food $$ 1-2-3 70 13, Maamou, 819 855-2426

Chisasibi, Pash Moar Pizza Canadian food $$ 2-3 10 16, Waapinuutaahch, 819 855-2080

Eastmain, Lindy’s Catering Canadian food $$ 1-2-3 4015, Openeca, 819 877-0233

Eeyou Istchee Baie-James, Cafeteria style $ 1-2-3 40 E Rest Area km 381 Km 381 of Route de la Baie-James 819 638-8502 pub. p. 59

Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Bistro-Bar Continental breakfast, À la carte Bistro menu, menu of the day. $$ 1-2-3 40 † E 6 Henrietta Maria (Motel du Lac)1017, boul. Quévillon, 819 [email protected] pub. p. 60

Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Restaurant Canadian and French, grilled steak, pizza, seafood, $$ 1-2-3 46 † ï 6 E L’Escale du Nord fine cuisine, Breton creperie. 1003, boul. Quévillon, 819 [email protected]

Oujé-Bougoumou, Auberge Capissisit Lodge European food, American food, Native food $$ 1-2-3 60 E01, Wastawshkootaw Meskino 418 745-3944 [email protected] www.ouje.ca/hotel pub p. 62

Matagami, Hôtel-Motel Matagami Skewer house, French, Italian, Québec, Grilled steak, $$ 1-2-3 300 † E 6 99, boul. Matagami Seafood, Fast food, Health food, Canadian, Fish. 819 739-2501 or 1 877 739-2501 [email protected] www.hotelmatagami.com pub. p. 56

Mistissini, Adel’s Restaurant Canadian food $$ 1-2-3 80127, Mistissini blvd.418 923-3201

Mistissini, Mistissini Lodge Quality cooking, grilled steak, ribs, $$ 1-2-3 85 E 24, rue Amisk pasta, chef’s seasonal specialities.418 923-2333 or 1 866 923-2333 Reservation suggested.

Since May 31, 2006, the Tobacco Act prohibits smoking in restaurants and other places where meals are served to the public, with the exception of open-air terraces.

Meals 1: Breakfast – 2: Lunch – 3: Supper

Price range per person $: Under $15 – $$: $15-30 – $$$: $31-50 – $$$$: over $50

Number of seats

Services

3 Accessible to persons with impaired mobility E Free outdoor parking † Licensed 6 Meeting room æ No credit cards ï Snowmobile rental Ç Tourist road signs


Food services

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Mistissini, Tim Hortons Fast food, Soup, Sandwich, Donut, Coffee $ 1-2-3 40200, Main Street, 418 923-2909

Nemaska, Nemaska Hotel & Restaurant Canadian food (Closed Saturday and Sunday) $$ 1-2-3 402, Lake Shore Road, 819 673-2615

Radisson, Auberge Radisson Nordic dishes (subject to availability), Grilled steak, $$ 1-3 80 † 6 E 66, avenue Des Groseilliers Seafood, Fish, Prey (Open from May to January) 819 638-7201 or 1 888 638-7201 Reservation [email protected] pub. p. 66

Radisson, Resto chez Mika Steak, Seafood, Fish, Fast food, Italian and Québec. $$ 1-2-3 80 † 6 E 53, avenue Des Groseilliers, 819 638-4827 [email protected] www.carrefourlagrande.ca

Waskaganish, Auberge Canadian food $$ 1-2-3 120Kanio-Kashee Lodge 7, JSC Watt Street, 819 895-2005

Waskaganish, Jacob’s Restaurant Canadian food $$ 1-2-3 3016, Charlton, 819 895-8821

Waswanipi, Waswanipi Cafeteria Canadian food $ 1-2-3 401-113 Rte, 819 753-2320

Wemindji, Maquatua Inn Canadian food $$ 1-2-3 7022, Gilpin Road, 819 978-3166


Price range per person $: Under $15 – $$: $15-30 – $$$: $31-50 – $$$$: over $50

Number of seats

Services

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Accommodation


The Accommodation section provides details on the activities and services offered at and near the accommodation site (within 10 km). The information in this guide was provided by establishment operators. Tourisme Québec is responsible for regulating all tourist accommodation establishments. Please send any comments to:

Direction de l’accueil et de l’hébergement touristiques Tourisme Québec 900, boulevard René-Lévesque Est, bureau 400, Québec (Québec) G1R 2B5 Telephone: 418 643-5959 or 1 800 463-5009 E-mail: [email protected]

General information

Only establishments with classifications of 1 or more stars or suns, or which are currently being evaluated, are included in this guide.

is to choose classified accommodation

www.bonjourquebec.com/lodging

The key to a successful stay

Hotel establishments: Establishments that offer accommodation in furnished rooms, suites or apartments that have kitchen facilities, including hotel services. Classified on a scale of 0 to 5 stars

B&Bs: Lodging in a private residence occupied by the operator. Breakfast is served on site and included in the package rate. Classified on a scale of 0 to 5 suns

Tourist homes: Lodging in furnished apartments, houses or cottages, including kitchen facilities. Classified on a scale of 0 to 5 stars

Resorts: Centres offering accommodations, meals or kitchen facilities, entertainment and recreational equipment. Classified on a scale of 0 to 5 stars

Youth hostels: Lodging in rooms or dormitories. Meals or kitchen facilities and 24-hour surveillance included. Classified on a scale of 0 to 5 stars

Educational institutions: Lodging in units that are not made available to the institution’s students. Classified on a scale of 0 to 5 stars

Hospitality villages: Lodging in rooms in a group of private residences where each host receives a maximum of six people and accompanies his/her guests for the length of their stay. Hospitality or entertainment activities as well as breakfast and lunch or dinner are included in the package rate. Classified on a scale of 0 to 5 stars

Other accommodation establishments: Establishments that do not fit any other class. Classified on a scale of 0 to 5 stars

Classes of tourist accommodation establishments

An establishment’s classification is determined using a weighted evaluation system that looks at its facilities and services, while taking account of the specific features of each class of establishment. Classification levels of 0 to 5 stars or suns reflect the comfort and services offered by the establishment.

For more information on classification programs, contact the Corporation de l’industrie touristique du Québec (CITQ) at 1 866 499-0550 or visit www.citq.info.

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Accommodation

Campground: The Conseil de développement du camping au Québec (CDCQ) is responsible for applying the classification program for campgrounds. Classifications are based on the quality of the infrastructures and the presence of additional services and activities. Campgrounds are rated on a scale of 0 to 5 stars and are evaluated every two years.

For more information on this program, contact the CDCQ at 1 866 252-0444 or visit www.guidecamping.ca.

Classification of campgrounds and outfitters

The price of a unit can vary according to the number of people, the season, the type of plan and the characteristics of the unit.

This guide publishes only the maximum price of the least expensive unit for double occu-pancy. Note that the price for B&Bs includes breakfast.

Prices are given as guidelines only and do not include taxes. It is always preferable to contact the establishment directly to find out prices in effect before making your reservations.

A tax on accommodation of $2 per night applies to the hotels, B&BS, tourist homes and outfitters in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James. The tax goes exclusively to creating a regional fund for advertising and developing tourism in region.

Secure on-line reservation through:

Rates

Only establishments with classifications of 1 or more stars, or which are currently being evaluated, are included in this guide.

Outfitters : The Québec Outfitters Federation (QOF) is responsible for applying the classification program for outfitters. The program is based on the level of comfort, and services and activities offered by an outfitter. Establishments listed in this guide are rated on a scale of 0 to 5 stars and are evaluated very four years.

For more information on the classification program, contact the QOF at 1 800 567-9009 or visit www.pourvoiries.com.

The Á symbol identifies establishments currently being evaluated.

Outfitting Operations: Establishments in natural surroundings offering accommodations in inns, cottages or houseboats as well as hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities. Scale of 0 to 5 stars

Camping establishments. Camping establishments. Establishments that offer services and permanent sites to accommodate tents or recreational camping vehicles, motorized or not. Scale of 0 to 5 stars

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Services in the units

Activities

Services

D Air conditioning in some unitsA Air conditioning in all units . Bathroom in all units, Bathroom in some units L Beddingo Internet access¢ Kitchenette in some unitsÖ Kitchenette in all units

µ Microwave ovenF Mini fridgeT Telephone in some units™ Telephone in all units N TV in some unitsC TV in all units• Whirlpool

a Alpine skiingä ATV trails l Beach7 Boatr Cross-country skiingY Cycling trail@ Fishingº Fitnessg GolfP Hebertism& HikingQ Horseback ridingj Horseshoe game Ã HuntingÎ Ice fishing

f Ice skating j Indoor playgroundi Indoor poolW Industrial visit ‰ Kayakb Lake without beachd Mountain bikee Outdoor poolt Playground/ Raftingn Snowmobileó Snowshoeing„ Summer theatrel Volleyballÿ Wildlife observation

Aboriginal cuisine2 Accesiblity suitable“ Airport shuttle L Bicycle rentalM Boat rampË Boat rental

Bring your wine — Business centre # Community hall ¢ Computer ward ª Convenience æ Credit cards not accepted ß Discount snowmobile secureü Elevator v Facing routeE Free outdoor parking « Gaz propane

© Ice † Licensed restaurant q Lookout

Native crafts 3 Partial accessibilityÂ Pets allowed T Public phone 6 Reception, meeting or conference room ì Regional cuisine¶ Restaurationi Sanitary blocks Saunaï Snowmobile rentals Spa

Tanning salon› Unit with fireplaceß Washer-dryer


}= Classification, see page 106

Prices given are only guidelines and do not include taxes. Please contact the establishment for additional information in all cases. The information is provided by the establishment operator, which is responsible for the validity of the information in these tables.

Services Activities OS: On-site5: Less than 10 km


Number of private bathroom

Number of units

Double occupancy (including breakfast)Max. price for the least expensive roomMax. price for the most expensive room


Chibougamau, Gîte de la Rivière \\\ 3 $67 o E C 1 1 OS : n ÿ @ l ä 18, lac Dulieux $107 ì & ó 418 748-7063; 418 [email protected] www.gitedelarivierechibougamau.com

Chibougamau, Gîte Le Domaine de la Mine d’Or \\\ 5 $90 Â æ › o $ 1-2-3 2 OS: ÿ & ó 349, chemin des Mines $125 E C ì 5: g Y a r418 770-8978 ; 418 748-1212 [email protected] www.ledomainedelaminedor.com

Chibougamau, Gîte l’Antre-Temps \\\ 2 $80 æ › E o 1 0 OS: ÿ @ Y & ó29, chemin Lac Caché $90 ì r418 748-3886 5: g a [email protected] www.giteantre-temps.com

Matagami, Le Gîte de la Belle Rivière \\\ 5 $100 o E C s M 1 5 OS: À ‰ @ b30, rue Bell $115 n ÿ &819 739-2822 5: g a [email protected]

Wemindji, Kookum Sarah’s Bed & Breakfast 5 $75 æ o C E 1-2-3 1 5: r 15, Riverside Drive $95 819 978-3501

Bed and Breakfast

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Activities OS: On-site 5: Less than 10 km


Double occupancy Max. price for the least expensive roomMax. price for the most expensive room

Number of units

Hotels






Amos, Amosphère complexe hôtelier }}}} 42 $85 3 s “ E 1-2-3 3.C OS: n 1031, route 111 Est $196 Â — ‹ 6 ì TAo 5: gYr„819 732-7777 Toll free: 1 800 567-7777 j T ß s • [email protected] www.amosphere.com

Baie-James, Relais Routier Km 381, } 20 $120 T EÂß 1-2-3 .C o OS: Ã @b&Km 381, route de la Baie-James ™ 819 638-8502 pub. p. 59

Chapais, Hôtel Opémiska Á 12 $80 2 ß 6 1 D ¢ o OS: 7ÃQPnÿ101, boul. Springer $150 E T L F , f@ilb ä&418 745-2828 C óºtdW www.hotelopemiska.com 5: Yr

Chapais, Motel Le Routier }} 19 $70 E T † 1-2-3 o .T OS: n181, boul. Springer $90 6ß C 5: Yr418 745-2564 [email protected]

Chibougamau, Le Relais du Lac Caché – Pétro-Canada }} 22 $90 “ E 6 1-2-3 A.C OS: nIntersection of the highways 113 and 167 $95 To 5: gYar418 748-6432 [email protected]

Chibougamau, Hôtel Chibougamau }}} 60 $99.95 ü E ‹ 1-2-3 A.C OS: n473, 3e Rue $200 6 T Â ì o T • 5: g Yar418 748-2669 — O† s [email protected] s L ï www.hotelchibougamau.com

Chibougamau, Hôtel-Motel Harricana }} 100 $95 ß 6 E D.T OS: n1000, 3e Rue $200 C • 5: gYar418 748-7771 [email protected] www.motelharricana.com

Chibougamau, Hôtel-Motel Nordic }}} 52 $105 “ E T 1-2-3 A.T OS: n966, 3e Rue $150 Co• 5: g Yar418 748-7686 Toll free: 1 888 748-6673 [email protected] www.motelnordic.com pub. p. 55

Chibougamau, Auberge Boréale – Restaurant Le Borée Á 16 $58.50 i — 1-2-3 oLF OS: 7ÃQ‰nf926, 3e Rue v “ † 6 ì ™ @Îilbä418 748-3283 I T› &ótdWl 5: gYar

Chisasibi, Chisasibi Motel } 20 $100 ü E T D oF OS: 7Ãnÿf15, Maamuu Street $150 .™C @bä819 855-2838

Eastmain, Mandow Inn } 12 $120 ßE T 1-2-3 oF™ OS: 7Ãnÿ @3, Mewaben Street C bä819 977-2050

Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Motel du Lac, }}} 43 $85 E † 6 1-2-3 D¢. OS: n1017, boul. Quévillon $120 CTo 5: gYr819 755-4333 • [email protected] pub. p. 60

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Number of units Meals 1: Breakfast – 2: Lunch – 3: Supper


Activities OS: On-site 5: Less than 10 kmServices

Double occupancy Max. price for the least expensive roomMax. price for the most expensive room


Hotels

Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Motel Iris, }} 6 $72 E Ao. OS: n l56, rue des Trembles $110 C T 5: g Yr 819 755-3300 www.moteliris.ca

Matagami, Hôtel Motel Bell, } 60 $38 E T 6 , T C D OS: n 196, boul. Matagami $65 5: gr 819 739-4347

Matagami, Hôtel-Motel Matagami, }}} 58 $100 6 E T 1-2-3 D . T OS: n99, boul. Matagami $150 Co• 5: gYr 819 739-2501 ou 1 877 739-2501 [email protected] www.hotelmatagami.com pub. p. 56

Mistissini, Auberge Mistissini Lodge, }}}} 20 $125 2 ü T 1-2-3 D . T OS: @M‹l‰f 24, rue Amisk, Mistissini $145 6 E Co• 5: r 418 923-2333 ou Toll free: 1 866 923-2333

Nemaska, C. Central Lodge 10 $100 E T o3, Chistaastihkw Road 819 673-2020

Nemaska, Nemaska Motel and Restaurant }} 10 $100 ¶ E 1-2-3 oF. OS: 7Ãnÿ @2, Lake Shore Road $150 T ™C lt819 673-2615

Oujé-Bougoumou, Auberge Capissisit Lodge }}} 12 $95 3 Â — E 1-2-3 D.o OS: n 01, Wastawshkootaw Meskino $110 i ‹ 6 T TC 5: r 418 745-3944 ß ì [email protected] www.ouje.ca/hotel pub. p. 62

Radisson, Auberge Radisson }}} 40 $115 3† 6 E 1-3 C™. OS: Ãn@iä 66, avenue Des Groseilliers $160 Â T ß ì Ao &óºW 819 638-7201 or 1 888 638-7201 (Can. USA) 5: r [email protected] www.aubergeradisson.com pub. p. 66

Radisson, Motel Carrefour La Grande, }} 21 $90 T ß 6 1-2-3 T.C OS: Ã ó53, avenue Des Groseilliers $110 o 5: r819 638-6005 [email protected] www.carrefourlagrande.ca

Radisson, Motel Baie-James }} 9 $97 T E ï .C OS: n 45, rue Iberville E o ¢ 5: r 819 638-7363 [email protected] www.motelbaiejames.ca

Waskaganish, Auberge Kanio-Kashee Lodge }}} 24 $100 “ ¶ 1-2-3 Ao. OS: nÿ @bä7, JSC Watt Street $150 # 6 E ™ C 819 895-2005 T

Wemindji, Maquatua Inn }} 30 $100 ¶ 6 E T 1-2-3 Dµo OS: Ãnÿf@22, Gilpin road $150 F.™ bä819 78-3166 C

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Campgrounds


Total number of campsites

Sites

Percentage (%) of shady campsites

Showers /Toilets

Dumping station for trailers

Services

Rates

Number of children admitted for the mentioned rate

Number of adults admitted for the mentioned rate

Activities OS: On-site 5: Less than 10 km




Beaucanton, Corporation plage et }}} 54 4 • • © Â ¶ T – $30 OS: ll j camping Lac Pajegasque ß # i Ë $30 M@t 1, chemin du Lac Pajegasque In season: 819 941-2666 / off season: 819 941-2471 [email protected]

Chapais, Camping Opémiska }}} 109 50 • • # T ß © 6 $21 OS: tM@lj 107, chemin du Lac Opémiska ¶ Âv $28 5: Y 418 745-3428 www.campingopemiska.com

Chibougamau, Éco-Camping de Chibougamau } 42 15 • • Â T ß ª 2 2 $20 OS: tl j äb 512, route 167 Sud o i $38 5: Yg In season: 418 748-7276 / off season: 418 748-4441 [email protected] / www.faunenord.org

Chibougamau, Camping de la Baie Pénicouane } 27 – • • Â i ©Ë 6 $31.50 OS: @OMbSÉPAQ, Réserve faunique des $43.50 Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-et-Waconichi 1584, route 167 Nord 418 748-7748 / Toll free: 1 800 665-6527 [email protected] / www.sepaq.com

Lebel-sur-Quévillon, Camping municipal }}} 77 70 • • Â T ß i 2 $20 OS: j & 900, boul. Quévillon # Ë o $25 5: ä M In season: 819 755-3363 / off-season: 819 755-4826 [email protected] / www.lebel-sur-quevillon.com

Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional }}} 85 60 • • ß © # Â – $22 OS: &Yt@ Government, Camping du lac Matagami i «ª v $26 5: ä M Km 38, route de la Baie-James In season: 819 739-8383 / off-season: 819 739-2030 [email protected] www.guidecamping.ca /baiejames

Radisson, Camping Radisson }} 40 25 • • ß Â # 4 $35 OS: ÿ&l j 198, rue Jolliet « i $35 5: Y In season: 819 638-8687 / off-season: 819 638-7777 [email protected]

Rates Min. price per dayMax. price per day



Eeyou Istchee Baie-JamesChapais, Chalets Opémiska }}} 3 5 $200 æ « E C ß Ö OS: nÎ@läY62, 63, 131, chemin du Lac Opémiska to 11 $440 418 [email protected]

Chibougamau, Chalets Waconichi } 11 2 to 4 $160 © 1 3 Ö OS: @Mÿ ‰SÉPAQ, Réserve faunique des $461 2«i Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-et-Waconichi, 1584, route 167 Nord418 748-7748 / sans frais : 1 800 665-6527 [email protected] / www.sepaq.com pub. p. 57

Matagami, Écolodge Lac Matagami Á 5 5 à 50 $ — ì v « • ¢ L OS: 7Ãg‰nÿ42, chemin du lac Matagami 25 © Ë “ q F . @Îlä/819 739-8231 6 s E › &ó[email protected] www.ecolodgelacmatagami.ca

Radisson, Location Radisson }} 8 2 to 8 $120 Ö ß 3 C 5: rC.P. 309 $450 2 E 819 638-9177 / [email protected] / www.locationradisson.com


Tourist homes (cottages, condos)

Number of units

Member of a chain

Services

Accomo. capacity

RatesMax. price for least expensive roomMax. price for most expensive room Activities

OS : On-site 5: Less than 10 km


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Outfitters


Fishing: Lake (L), Reservoir (K), River (R), large river (F)Species caught: Pike (A), Spekled trout (B), Walleye (C), Grey trout-touladi (D), Perch (E), Sturgeon (F), Char (G), Atlantic salmon (H)

Hunting: Crossbow/bow (A), Firearm (F), Black powder rifle (P), Hunting dog (C)Hunted species: Hare (A), Partridge (B), Caribou (C), Moose (D), Canada goose (E), Black bear (F), Ptarmigan (G)

Lodging: Inn (A), Houseboat (B), Cottage(C), Camp (K))

Accommodation: V Cold water W Hot water f Indoor toilet g Indoor shower 2 Indoor bathroom (toilet and/or bath/shower) 1 Private outdoor bathroom (toilet and/or bath/shower) 5 Comfort station d Outhouse c Automatic heating system b Wood heating system a Electric lighting system Z Propane lighting system

} = Classification, see page 107

0 = Seasonal establisment


Camp de pêche Pomerleau • L A-B-C-D C V W Lac Chibougamau Â Ë M l ÿ À @ 348, Chemin du lac Chibougamau Nord K 2 5 E E ä & Chibougamau b a 418 748-1205 or 418 770-5453 [email protected] www.pourvoirie-pomerleau.com

Kiskimaastakin Camps • L A-B-D A B-C-G C V W Réservoir Laforge 1 ª E À n73, rue Iberville, Radisson R F 2 5 Latitude : W 72º 28’ 1 888 449-2880 K P c a Longitude : N 54º 17’[email protected] www.kiskimaastakin.com

Broadback Outfitter L A-B-C C Lac Assinica and L ¶ E ÿ 203, Opemiska Meskino R Rivière Broadback Ouje-Bougoumou418 [email protected] www.broadback.ca

Cargair Outfitter • L A-B-D A C-G A V W LG-4 E E T ¶ ÿ @ (Open May to October) R F K 2 c 72, 5534.5 ; 1788, boul. Lafontaine P a 56, 0206.5 Rivière-Rouge 1 800 371-2371 [email protected] www.pourvoiriecargair.com

J.C. Bou Outfitter L A-B-C-D F B-C-F C V W Lac Chibougamau æ Ë M & À @ Route 167, KM 211 2 5 E ¶ Chibougamau c a418 [email protected]/jcbou

Mirage Adventure / Mirage Outfitter • L A-B-C-D A C-F-G A V W Rivière la Grande Ë ï 6 À Ã ‰ nÿ Route Transtaïga, KM 358 K F C 2 5 72, 5263 ; s s E T @ Î ä/ Poularies R P K c a 53, 4653 ¶ E & ó r 1 866 339-6202

[email protected]

Fishing

Member of FPQ

Lodging

Hunting Location; GPSSpecies Amenities

Species

Activities

Services

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0


Outfitters

Fishing

Member of FPQ

Lodging

Hunting Location; GPSSpecies Amenities

Species

Activities

Services


Radisson LG-2 Outfitter • K A-B-C-D F C-G C g d Réservoir Â M c 7 n ÿ 49, rue Iberville R Robert-Bourassa ï Î & ó r Radisson 819 638-5400 / 1 877 638-5400caribouxkid@pourvoirie-radisson-lg2.comwww.pourvoirie-radisson-lg2.com

SÉPAQ, Réserves fauniques Assinica et L A-B-C-D C V W M 7 ÿ ‰ Ï des Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini-et-Waconichi f 5 Accueil Rupert, 1584, Route 167 Nord b Z Chibougamau 418 748-7748 / 1 888 [email protected] pub. p. 59

Osprey Excursions • L A-B-C-D A V 5 Lac Mistassini c E ÿ 30, Montée des Bouleaux C b Z St-Constant 450 [email protected]

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Roadside rest areas and camgrounds rustic

l Beach M Boat ramp @ Fishing & Hiking q Lookout T Public phone

All the sites listed above have portable toilets. You can stay at most municipal sites.

Location Access road Rest area Picnic tables Camping area Services


Halte routière de la rivière Bell Km 2 • •

Kiosque d’information touristique Km 6 • • T

Rivière Waswanipi Km 38 @ M

Lac Goéland Km 48 @ M

Rivière Waswanipi (accès lac Olga) Km 48 • • @ M

Lac Ouescapis Km 80 • • @ M

Km 135 • •

Lac Rodayer Km 189 • • @ l

Rivière Broadback Km 232 • • @ q &

Route de Wasgakanish Km 237 • •

Rivière de Rupert Km 257 • • @ M

Cascades Rupert Km 257 • • @ q &

Halte des Passages Km 274 • •

Lac Mirabelli Km 323 • • @ M

Relais routier Km 381 • • @ M T

Rivière Eastmain Km 395 • • @ q &

Halte Sarcelle Km 396 • • • q M

Rivière Opinaca Km 411 • • @ q

Chaîne de Lacs Km 440 • • @ M

Vieux Comptoir Km 464 • • @ q

Lac du Vieux Comptoir Km 467 • • q &

Lac Miron Km 503 • • @M

Wemindji Km 518 •

Lac Yasinski Km 542 • • @ q

Rivière Castor Km 561 • • @

Lac Duncan Km 574 • • @ MRoute Transtaïga

Lac Sakami Km 56 • • @ M

Exutoire Sakami Km 59 • • @

Réservoir Robert-Bourassa Km 62 • • @ M

Rivière Pontois Km 203 • • • @ M qRoute du Nord

Halte Cheniapiscau Km 132 • • q

Lac Mesgouez Km 221 M@

Halte Rivière Rupert Km 238 • • @ q

Halte Collines Lescar Km 286 • • @ q

Lac Boisrobert Km 381 • • M @109 Highway

Halte des Collines Cartwright Km 157 • • q

Halte de Douay Km 167 • •

113 Highway

Lac Waswanipi Km 190 • • @ M


118© Mathieu Dupuis

Services


Convenience stores and gas stations

ChibougamauDépanneur Super Sonic990, 3e Rue Chibougamau, QC G8P 1R7 418 748-2369

ChisasibiChisasibimi Bar59, Fort George Chisasibi, QC J0M 1E0 819 855-2622Pimiiukimikew Gas6, Chisasibi Road Chisasibi, QC J0M 1E0 819 855-2427

EastmainStajune Garage & Gas Bar147, Shabow Road Eastmain, QC J0M 1W0 819 977-2141

MistissiniPimi-Plus Esso284, Queen Street Mistissini, QC G0W 1C0 418 923-2727Chiiwetin Gas Crevier 200, Main Street Mistissini, QC G0W 1C0 418 923-2949

NemaskaNemaska Gas Bar26, Chismtaastihw Street Nemaska, QC J0Y 3B0 819 673-2559

Oujé-BougoumouOujé Casey’s Gas Depanneur110, Ouje-Bougoumou Meskino Oujé-Bougoumou, QC G0W 3C0 418 745-3211

RadissonDistribution Radis-Nord Inc.57, avenue Des Groseilliers Radisson, QC J0Y 2X0 819 638-7255

Val d’OrPetronor1401, chemin Sullivan, C.P. 310 Val d’Or, QC J9P 4P4 819 824-5505 www.petronor.ca

WaskaganishTrans-Arctic Gas Station22, Smokey Hill Waskaganish, QC J0M 1R0 819 895-8900

WaswanipiBedabin Gas Esso7, Poplar Street Waswanipi, QC J0Y 3C0 819 753-2249

WemindjiSibi Gas Station65, Beaver Road Wemindji, QC J0M 1L0 819 978-3508

Mechanics

Mécanique Sports plus942, 3e rue Chibougamau, QC G8P 1R6 418 748-1155 [email protected]


Local and regional development centre

Centre d’entrepreneurship nordique119, 5e avenue, suite 3 Chibougamau [email protected] www.entrepreneurshipnordique.caCorporation de développement économique de Chapais145, boul. Springer, C.P. 128 Chapais QC G0W 1H0 418 745-2355 [email protected] Corporation de développement économique de V.V.B.2709, boul. McDuff, local B Beaucanton, QC J0Z 1H0 819 941-2180 [email protected]éveloppement Chibougamau600, 3e Rue, bureau 2 Chibougamau, QC G8P 1P1 418 748-6060 www.developpementchibougamau.org Gens d’affaires L.S.Q.223, place Quévillon Lebel-sur-Quévillon, QC J0Y 1X0 819 755-2584 [email protected] www.galsq.com

Eeyou Economic Group58, rue Pine Waswanipi, QC J0Y 3C0 819 753-2560S.A.D.C. Chibougamau-Chapais600, 3e Rue, bureau 1 Chibougamau, QC G8P 1P1 418 748-6477 [email protected] www.sadccc.caS.A.D.C de Matagami180, place du commerce, C.P. 910 Matagami, QC J0Y 2A0 819 739-2155 www.sadcdematagami.qc.ca Société de développement commercial de MatagamiC.P. 239 Matagami, QC J0Y 2A0 819 739-2770Société de développement économique de Lebel-sur-Quévillon555, place Quévillon, C.P. 670 Lebel-sur-Quévillon, QC J0Y 1X0 819 755-4225 [email protected] / www.sdelsq.comSociété de développement de la Baie-James462, 3e Rue, bureau 10 Chibougamau, QC G8P 1N7 418 748-7777 www.sdbj.gouv.qc.ca

Steven Pash, Tourism consultant4, rue Cook Chisasibi, QC J0M 1E0 613 830-7129 [email protected] touristique de la Vallée de la Turgeon3897, chemin de l’Église, local 20 Villebois, QC J0Z 3V0 819 941-2034 [email protected]

Tourism

Tourisme Amos-Harricana892, route 111 Est Amos, QC J9T 2K4 819 727-1242 [email protected] www.ville.amos.qc.ca/tourisme

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Services

Teaching institutions

Centre de formation professionnelle de la Baie-James265, rue Lanctôt Chibougamau, QC G8P 1C1 418 748-7621 www.cfpbj.ca

Commission scolaire Crie203, Main Street Mistissini, Qc G0W 1C0 1-866-999-2764 www.cscree.qc.ca

Commission scolaire de la Baie-James 596, 4e Rue Chibougamau, QC G8P 1S3 418 748-7621 www.csbj.qc.ca

Services aux entreprises et aux collectivités162, avenue Lafontaine Chibougamau, QC G8P 2H9 418 748-3903 www.seccof.com

pub. p. 59

French English Cree

Bonjour Hello Kwey

Bienvenue Welcome Wachiya

Merci Thank you Chiniskumitin

Au revoir Goodbye Wachiya

Je m’appelle My name is ...nitisinikaasun

Comment allez-vous? How are you? Taan aaihtiyin?

Graphic design

Graph Cat45, 5e Rue, C.P. 868 Chapais, QC G0W 1H0 418 770-8152 [email protected]

Video productions

Miscellaneous

Le Pêcheur du NordChapais, 418 637-8021 [email protected] www.lepecheurdunord.com

Hydro-Québec511, route 167 Sud, C.P. 100 Chibougamau, QC G8P 2K5 418 748-8200

pub. p. 64



Emergency 911, 310-4141 or *4141 (a cell)

Québec Poison Control Centre 1 800 463-5060

Chapais 418 745-2591Chibougamau 418 748-6435Chisasibi 819 855-2844Eastmain 819 977-0241Lebel-sur-Quévillon 819 755-4881Matagami 819 739-2515Mistissini 418 923-3376Nemaska 819 673-2511

Oujé-Bougoumou 418 745-3901Radisson 819 638-8991Villebois-Valcanton 819 941-3007Waskaganish 819 895-8833Waswanipi 819 753-2511Wemindji 819 978-0225Whapmagoostui 819 929-9110

Health Care Centres and Social Services

Brisay 819 853-7300 #7311LA1 819 853-7300 #7212

LG3 819 638-2950 #2815LG4 819 854-6100 #6119

Hydro-Québec Health Care Centre (medical care)

Health care services offered by Hydro-Québec are not covered by the Régie de l’assurance-maladie du Québec. Make sure you take out complementary insurance before leaving!

Health info line 811

Winter driving: From December 15 to March 15, all taxis and passenger vehicles registered in Québec must be equipped with winter tires. This requirement also applies to rental passenger vehicles in Québec.

Cell phone: Use of a hand-held cell phone that does not have a “hands-free” function is prohibited while driving.

Regulations

Road network conditions 511 or www.Québec511.info

Weather www.weather.ec.gc.ca

Forest Fire Protection Society (SOPFEU) 1 800 463-3389

Reporting poachers 1 800 463 2191

Practical information

123


Ministère des Ressources naturelles et de la Faune

Chibougamau 418 748-7744 Chisasibi 819 855-2449Eastmain 819 977-2478Lebel-sur-Quévillon 819 755-4603 Matagami 819 739-2111 Mistissini (Seasonal) 418 923-4006Nemiscau 819 672-2200 poste 3002

Oujé-Bougoumou (Seasonal) 418 745-4014 Radisson 819 638-8305 Waskaganish (Seasonal) 819 895-5006Waswanipi (Seasonal) 819 753-4007Whapmagoostui 819 929-3863Wemindji (Seasonal) 819 978-3465


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“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. This expression makes a lot of sense when travelling over immense unfamiliar territories. Every adventure requires serious preparation. Espescially if you plan on travelling on the Route du Nord and the Transtaïga. To ensure the success of your stay and avoid unexpected mishaps, we suggest you put into practice the following advice:• Have your vehicle inspected. Make sure it is in

good condition.• When leaving a town, fill up on gas.• Inform a relative or a friend or someone of your

schedule and itinerary.• Make sure you have in your possession road

maps and other necessary maps for your activities (such as topographical maps and your tourist guide).

• Obtain travel insurance.• Have in your possession all the official papers

needed to practice your activity (permits, fishing or hunting permits, registrations, etc.).

• Complete your documentation by contacting the various permanent and seasonal Tourist Information Centre of the region.

Summer: ❑ Sun protection

❑ Cap or hat

❑ Repellent for stinging insects

Winter:

❑ Traction aid

❑ Car lock de-icer

❑ Antifreeze for gas

❑ Antifreeze for radiator

❑ Shovel

❑ Really warm clothes, Bobble hat, mittens wool socks, etc.

Memory jogger

Safety first:❑ Matches, flashlights, sweaters

❑ Basic tool box

❑ Spare wheel “a real one” if you take gravel roads

❑ Water, beverages and snack

❑ Cash

❑ Sunglasses

❑ First aid kit

❑ Windshield washer fluid, motor oil

❑ Spare clothes and blanket

❑ Hazard warning lights

❑ Rope and string

❑ Territory maps

❑ Knife or small axe

❑ Compass

❑ Garbage bags

❑ Driver, hunting, fishing license

❑ Medicine (if necessary)

❑ Camera

125

Alphabetical Index


A

Aanischaaukamikw – Cree Cultural Institute . . . . . 91

Aboriginal experience . . . . . . . . 89Access for persons

with impaired mobility . . . . . . . 2Accommodation . . . . . . . . . . . . 106Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54, 128Aerotourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92Airplanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Airports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 De la Grande Rivière . . . . . . . . 29 De la Grande 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 De Némiscau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Arts and crafts . . . . . 32, 89, 90, 91Association, corporation . . . . . 119Astronomy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42ATVs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

B

Baie Pénicouane . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47Beaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76, 94Beaucanton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81Bed & Breakfast . . . . . . . . . . . . 109Bike paths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97Boat launching ramps Baie Pénicouane . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Lac Boisrobert . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Lac Duncan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Lac Matagami

Campground . . . . . . . . 20, 106 Lac Mesgouez . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Lac Mirabelli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Lac Miron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Lac Opémiska . . . . . . . . . . 84, 94 Lac Ouescapis . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Lac Rodayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Lac Sakami . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Rivière de Pontois . . . . . . . . . . 36 Rivière Rupert . . . . . . . . . 23, 49 Rivère Waswanipi . . . . . . . . . 20 String of Lakes . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Bowling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

C

Campgrounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112Canoeing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95Caribou hunting . . . . . . . . .102,114Chapais . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73, 74Chibougamau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Chisasibi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106Climate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Convenience stores . . . . . . . . . 118Cottages (see tourist homes) . . 113Covered bridges . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81Cree communities

Chisasibi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Eastmain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Mistissini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Nemaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Oujé-Bougoumou . . . . . . . . . . 72 Waskaganish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Waswanipi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Wemindji . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Whapmagoostui . . . . . . . . . . . 34Cross country skiing . . . . . . . . . 101Cultural tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88Culture and heritage . . . . . . . . . 81Cycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

D

Desmaraisville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77Distances table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

E

Eastmain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Eeyou Istche James Bay

Government Regional . . . . . . 16Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84Excursions / Adventures . . . . . . . 93

F

Family activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97Festivals (see events) . . . . . . . . . 84Fishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45, 84, 102Footpaths (see hiking) . . . . . . . . 98

G

Gas stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118General information . . . . . . . . . . 3Geomorphological sites . . . . . . . 41Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96Graphic design . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120Guided visits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

H

Handicrafts and souvenirshops . . . . 32, 89, 90, 91

Health Centres . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122Heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88Highway 113 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71Hiking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98Hotels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110How to use this guide . . . . . . . . . 2Hunting and fishing . . . . . . . . . 102Hunting and fishing shops . . . 103Hunting areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102Hydro power . . . . . . . . 11, 12, 30,

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31, 35, 88

I

Île de Fort-George . . . . . . . . . . . 33Inns (see hotels) . . . . . . . . . . . . 110Interpretation Center . . . . . . . . 30

J

James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement . . . . . . . . 10

LLacs Albanel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Aux Dorés . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Boisrobert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Champion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Chibougamau . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Cladonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Cummings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Du Vieux comptoir . . . . . . . . . 27 Duncan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Gilman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Goéland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Imbeau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81, 88 Matagami . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18, 94 Mesgouez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Mirabelli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Miron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Mistassini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Olga . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19, 20 Opémiska . . . . . . . . . . . 72, 73, 94 Ouescapis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Pajégasque . . . . . . . . . . . . 82, 94 Paradis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Quévillon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78, 94 Regneault . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Rodayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Sakami . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Samuel-Bédard . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Waconichi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Yasinski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29La Grande-1 Generating

station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Lebel-sur-Quévillon . . . . . . . . . . 78Local and regional

development Centre . . . . . . . 119

MMaps Road access to the region . . . . 3 Route de la Baie-James . . . . . 13 Route du Nord . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Route Transtaïga . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Highway 113 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Vallée de la Turgeon . . . . . . . 80 Matagami . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18, 19Mechanic . . . . . . . . . . . 92, 103, 118Memory Jogger . . . . . . . . . . . . 122Ministère des Ressources naturelles

et de la Faune . . . . . . . . 102, 123Miquelon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77Mistissini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Mont Cummings . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Mont Laurier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Mont Springer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75Motels (see hotels) . . . . . . . . . . 110Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

NNatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Nature and outdoor activities . . 92


Alphabetical Index©

Nei

ls K

. Jen

sen

Odeyak – Cultural Institute

Nautical circuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94Nemaska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

OObalski Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41, 94Oujé-Bougoumou . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Outfitters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

PPavillon Obalski Inmet . . . . . . . . 43Permits

(fishing and hunting) . . 102-103Pictograms (accommodation) . . 108Poaching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102, 122Poison control centre . . . . . . . . 122Portrait of the region . . . . . . . . . 6Practical information . . . . . . . . 122

RRadisson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Regional Historical Society

of Chibougamau . . . . . . . . . . . 41Religious buildings . . . . . . . . . . . 78Rentals Bikes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 Canoes . . . . . . . . . . . . 78, 81, 82 Cottages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Kayaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78, 81, 82 Pedal-boat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Snowmobiles . . . . . . 92, 103, 118Réserves fauniques

Assinica et des Lacs-Albanel-Mistassini et Waconichi . . 45, 47

Réservoir Robert Bourassa . . . . . 35Restaurants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104Rest stop KM 381 . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Riding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Rivières Au castor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Bell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Bras de Rupert . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Broadback . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21, 49 Brock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Chibougamau . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Corvette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 De Pontois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Du Vieux Comptoir . . . . . . . . . 26 Eastmain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Jolicoeur . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Nottaway . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20, 44 Opinaca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Pontax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Rupert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23, 49 Waswanipi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Road access to the region . . . . . . 3Road conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . 122Roadside rest areas

and campgrounds rustic . . . . 116Robert-Bourassa

Generating Facility . . . . . . . . . 31Route de la Baie-James . . . . 13, 15Route du Nord . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 39Route Transtaïga . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

S

SEPAQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118Skiing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43, Snowmobile . . . . . . . . . . . 100, 101Snowmobile clubs . . . . . . . . . . 101Snowmobile excursions . . . . . . 100Snowmobile trail map . . . . . . . 100SOPFEU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122Souvenirs . . . . . . . . . . 32, 89, 90, 91

Syllabic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Symbols used in this guide . . . . . 2

T

Teaching institutions . . . . . . . . 120Topographical maps . . . . . . . . 103Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119Tourisme Québec . . . . . . . . . 5, 106Tourist homes

(cottages and condos) . . . . . 113Tourist information . . . . . . . . . . . 4Tourist road signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

U

Useful information . . . . . . . . . . 122

V

Val Paradis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81Vallée de la Turgeon . . . . . . . . . 80Villebois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

W

Walking trails (hiking) . . . . . . . . 98Waskaganish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Waswanipi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76Weather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122Wemindji . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Whapmagoostui . . . . . . . . . . . . 34Wildlife and flora . . . . . . . . . . 7, 8Wildlife observation

and interpretation . . . . . . . . . 94Winter Fun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

127

Alphabetical Index


PRODUCTION TEAMSTourisme Baie-James Eeyou Istchee Tourism

PROJECT MANAGERJohanne T . Godin

COLLABORATIONJohn Boudrias and Équipe Tourisme Baie-James

TRANSLATION Joe Villaverde

PARTNERSTourisme Québec and ATR associées du Québec

GRAPHIC ADAPTER, LAYOUTService d’infographie Lucie Lévesque-Pageau

PRINTINGSolisco

COVER PAGE (PICTURE)Gaston Cooper

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

© L

ouis

e Ab

bott

128

kNF4

Pour une copie gratuite du Guide touristique officiel du Nunavik :For a free copy of the Nunavik Official Tourist Guide:

Association touristique du NunavikNunavik Tourism Association819-964-2876 / 1-855- NUNAVIK

www.nunavik-tourism.com

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