The best MTB trails around Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc

The Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc area offers a variety of mountain bike trails, primarily characterized by extensive forested areas, numerous lakes, and varied relief. You'll find routes that traverse woodlands and sections around pristine lakes. The terrain often includes unique rocky formations, especially around areas like Mont SM and the upcoming Parc du Mont St-Mathieu, which features 400-million-year-old ferruginous red rock.

While many trails in the immediate Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc area are rated moderate, there is an easy route available: Parc des Chutes-de-Shawinigan loop from Shawinigan. This 7.2-mile (11.6 km) trail offers a less challenging option for those new to mountain biking or looking for a more relaxed ride. The Parc Récréoforestier Saint-Mathieu also provides a tranquil setting for various outdoor activities.

The mountain bike trails around Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc range from easy to difficult. Most of the featured routes are rated as moderate, such as the Lac Parker – Lac Bouchard loop from Lac Barbotte and the Lac Marie – Lac Parker loop from Car Parking. There is also a difficult route, the Lac du Pimbina loop from Rivière-à-la-Pêche - Pavillon de services, which features significant elevation gain and varied terrain. The Vélo de Montagne Mauricie (VVM) also develops 'climb-descent' routes designed for All-Mountain bikes due to challenging relief and rocky terrain.

Yes, the region is known for its compelling panoramic views. Mont SM, for instance, features a 25 km network of trails traversing three peaks, providing scenic vistas. Within the nearby Parc national de la Mauricie, you can find stunning panoramic viewpoints like Le Passage lookout overlooking Lac Wapizagonke, and Île-aux-Pins Lookout. These are especially beautiful during autumn foliage.

Many trails in the area pass by or near beautiful natural features. You can encounter several lakes, such as Lac Wapizagonke and Lac du Pimbina. The region is also home to waterfalls, including Waterfall in Mauricie National Park and Les Cascades. The unique forest ecosystem, with sugar maples, yellow birches, pine, fir, and spruce, adds to the natural charm, and you might spot wildlife like moose, bears, lynx, foxes, and beavers.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in the area are designed as loops. Examples include the Lac Parker – Lac Bouchard loop from Lac Barbotte, the Lac Marie – Lac Parker loop from Car Parking, and the Lac du Pimbina loop from Rivière-à-la-Pêche - Pavillon de services. These circular routes allow you to start and end at the same point, offering convenient exploration of the diverse landscapes.

The best time for mountain biking in Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc is generally from spring through autumn. The Parc Récréoforestier Saint-Mathieu is open year-round, but the warmer months offer the most favorable conditions for mountain biking. Autumn is particularly stunning due to the vibrant foliage, especially around panoramic viewpoints like those in Parc national de la Mauricie.

Yes, parking is generally available near the trailheads for many routes. For example, the Lac Marie – Lac Parker loop starts from a designated Car Parking area. The Lac du Pimbina loop begins from Rivière-à-la-Pêche - Pavillon de services, which typically offers parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check specific route details for precise parking information.

Access to the Parc Récréoforestier Saint-Mathieu is generally free of charge. However, if you plan to mountain bike within the Parc national de la Mauricie, a national park, entrance fees or permits may be required. It's advisable to check the official website for Parc national de la Mauricie for current access requirements and fees before your visit.

The mountain bike trails around Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 7 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse natural landscapes, the extensive forested areas, and the unique rocky terrain that makes for an engaging riding experience. The presence of numerous lakes and varied relief also contributes to the scenic beauty and enjoyment of the routes.

Public transport options directly to specific mountain bike trailheads in Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc are limited. The region is best accessed by car, allowing for greater flexibility to reach various starting points and explore the diverse trail networks. It's recommended to plan your trip with personal transportation for convenience.

Yes, the Parc du Mont St-Mathieu is slated to open a new network of over 14 kilometers of mountain biking trails in spring 2026. These trails are being carved into the mountain's distinctive 400-million-year-old ferruginous red rock, promising a technical, exhilarating, and visually striking experience for riders.