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6 outdoor places to visit with the family – Charlotte and Charlie

6 sites de plein air à visiter en famille – Charlotte et Charlie

Majestic fall

A few minutes from downtown, between the river and the cliffs, the Parc de la Chute-Montmorency dominates the landscape with its 83 meters of height. The park cove is explored on foot, while most of the trails are accessible to strollers and will lead to several superb picnic spots. Children's playgrounds are set up near the hiking trails to allow children to move and have fun.

Urban hiking

No need to leave the city to go hiking! With its 32 km of hiking trails connecting the Old Port of Québec to Lake Saint-Charles, the Saint-Charles River Linear Park is definitely the ideal place to introduce children to hiking - classified as easy by Rando Québec - and to help them discover historical sites and the city's diverse flora. A section is also accessible by bike.

In the valley

Located 30 minutes from Quebec City, Jacques-Cartier National Park is a must for hiking, whether for seasoned walkers, novices or even those who don't walk yet! The park also offers several easy and intermediate hiking trails, including the Rivière-Sautauriski trail, which is accessible with a big-wheel stroller. In addition to hiking, a range of activities will entertain little ones : theatrical performances, animal activities, guided water outings, etc. In case of bad weather, most of them still take place or are held at the Belleau Amphitheatre.

Rediscovering Duchesnay

To introduce the kids to hiking, rediscover the Duchesnay Tourist Resort . This four-season resort is a magnificent playground for many activities: climbing, archery, SUP, canoeing, trail running and, of course, hiking. The resort has 25.7 km of hiking trails, including the Station's perimeter trail and the Le Lac Jaune trail, which are accessible to big-wheel strollers. Discover the educational and humorous Super Labyrinth Inukshuk rally with the family.

Family bird watching

Want to explore nature with your little one comfortably seated in their stroller? Head to Les Marais du Nord Nature Park, which offers 8 km of interpretive trails for the whole family (including several trails accessible to strollers). It's also a little paradise for introducing children to ornithology with its 160 listed species and for learning more about the importance of wetlands.

Photo taken from the Facebook page Marais du Nord

The beach in town

Everyone to the beach! Baie de Beauport needs no introduction, but did you know that it offers a wide range of family activities? In addition to swimming (when permitted) and water games (a hit every time!), little ones can let their creativity run wild during wall graffiti workshops and crafts with La Génératrice. Among the new features, the flying trapeze now offers a free period to the public every day (starting June 16). Not to mention free access to the site for those under 18. Don't forget your swimsuit and sunscreen!

Photo: Elisabeth Anctil-Martin

5 accessories to take on a walk

What are the essentials or clever accessories to slip into your backpack or take with you? Charlotte et Charlie stores are full of ingenious, well-designed and versatile products. Here are 5 favorites:

Douce Mousse Mineral Sunscreen

No question of playing outside without sun protection! We love this SPF 30 Douce Mousse screen, 100% natural and made in Quebec. It is gentle on the skin of little ones and effective for the whole family!

A security bracelet with identity

Is your son running around? Worried he'll get lost in the mountains? The Little Life ID bracelet is a reassuring tool. This Velcro bracelet has a folded information card on which you can write your contact details and medical information.

A stroller with big wheels

Perfect for walking or jogging on trails, the Thule Urban Glide 2 big-wheel stroller is easy to steer with 16-inch rear wheels and a front wheel that swivels and locks for jogging. It also has a built-in twist-and-turn handbrake to control speed when going downhill.

The Babybjörn One baby carrier

When hiking on steep terrain, a baby carrier is your best friend. The Babybjörn One is simple, comfortable and multifunctional, while providing your child with adequate support. The plus: four carrying options are available, depending on the activity and age of the child.

A Twistshake cup

It is important to drink enough during physical activity. But how do you convince your little girl to stay hydrated? The Twistshake is the tasty option: this fruit blender is an ingenious innovation that allows children and parents to create nutritious drinks by adding fruits and berries. The plus: its spill-proof spout follows the child without any mess during all their activities.

Happy hiking with your family!