La Mauricie National Park
La Mauricie National Park is located in the Laurentian Mountain Range. In 1970 La Mauricie National Park was deemed Canada’s twenty third national park. The park is a protected area for conservation and used as a representative example of the southern part of the Canadian Shield. Because of the familiar natural surroundings in this park, it is sometimes taken for granted. La Mauricie National Park has so much to offer that if visitors just keep an observant attitude they are sure to find enjoyment in the park and a new respect for their surroundings. There are plenty of different ways to explore the park, the park also has a unique natural history and plenty of wildlife to enjoy.
La Mauricie National Park is a part of the southern portion of the Canadian Shield. The Canadian Shield is a geological formation that dates back to the Precambrian period. The rock is metamorphic and was originally formed by very high pressure and heat under the earth’s crust. Parts of the park showcase the Canadian Shield very well but you will need to keep your eyes out because there it is rounded down and not as apparent in some sections of the park. The reason the shield is not so apparent in some areas is because of the glaciers that formed over the rock formation and rounded it down. When the glaciers withdrew they also formed the Champlain Sea. Take your time to find these rock formations and explore the area.
Everywhere you go in the park you are sure to find plenty of wildlife. Some of the featured species in the area include the black bear, red fox, moose, squirrels, beavers and shrews. For bird watchers, keep your eyes on the sky for the ruby-crowned Kinglet, the Magnolia Warbler and Hermit Thrush. Many of the different species in the area depend on the natural aquatic environment so stick nearby the aquatic areas for prime viewing of the wildlife in the park.
The park offers a variety of activities to help visitors get in touch with their surroundings. You will be surprised to find that there are different levels of activities for everyone, from the beginner to the experienced. Activities offered include snowshoeing, hiking and cross country skiing. For those that want to take a weekend to explore the area, there are plenty of camping areas around the park. You will be able to explore the landscape a bit more and see the natural land formations in the area. Be sure to also keep your eyes peeled for any wildlife in the area and you are sure to see more than a few different species if you keep vigilant.
The park even offers the option of staying in an otentik tent which is a large tent about the size of a cabin that will be prepared for your stay. It’s the perfect way for couples, friends and families to sample the joys of camping with no fuss and hassle.
These tents are also set in the middle of gorgeous scenery so you will awaken to spectacular views all around you. Stay overnight and enjoy more of the activities that the park has to offer.
