Sunday, August 12, 2018

Hiking in Forillon Park ~ Gaspé.


My daughter and family were visiting
last week and we did a coastal hike, 
on The Graves Trail,
know as "the end of the world" at
Forillon National Park,
 located at the outer tip of the Gaspe Peninsula.
This park was created in 1970, covering 94 sq. miles,
 the first national park in Quebec.
The park includes forest, sea coast, salt marshes, 
sand dunes, cliffs and 
the Eastern End of the Appalachian Mountains. 
The word "forillon" is thought to have referred
 to a  landmark in the area that
 has since collapsed into the ocean. 

Sadly, 225 families were expropriated to create this park,
forced to leave their homeland,
 and take up residence elsewhere.

Our hike on The Graves Trail, round trip, is
15.2 km or approx. 8 miles.

Stunning view with the beaches, 
wildlife and wildflowers.
My sister Annie came with us also. 
She is 73yrs. old and
this was her first time hiking.
 She did great, and enjoyed it very much.



Annie, Mathieu,  Suzanne, Sabrina, Martin,
and of course, cute dog Pino behind.
Dogs on leashes are allowed at this park.



We were given a pamphlet with instructions,
 in case we encounter bears.
Luckily, we didn't see any.
However, I did see a large patch of grass 
that had been laid on, close to the trail,
  and I did faintly smell bear.
(similar to skunk or strong urine)
Annie and I both seniors in the group,
hastened our step to stay close to the group.




There are 2 trails 
an easy one used by bikers etc.
Also a forest one which goes lower to the water.
We took the easy one up and the other to come down.











Taking a break



















We were not alone on this hike.
Lots of hikers, toddlers, children, also
very inspiring to see seniors, 
some in their 80's.
and a Mom pushing a baby carriage.





Our destination coming up









Our first view of the lighthouse. 


A historial lighthouse









Me


Annie


Suzanne and I hiked down to 
this lookout to "Land's End"



Me.


Suzanne.







We were not alone on this lookout.









Family Photo




The Red Chairs.
There's 2 red chairs each
Canada's National Parks.




We started the forest trail down. 


Just in case.














A girl sitting alone.
enjoying the view..
She is brave...






 ?


No bikes allowed, on this trail. 


We arrive near the end on the trail, 
close to the parking lot


Annie waiting for me.
I often lagged behind to take pics. 
I was referred to as "bear bait" LOL







Back to the parking lot 


Annie was rewarded homemade ice-cream 
after her first hike.


We had a great time,
enjoying this part of our country,
and all it's natural beauty. 
God's creation.
 Also making memories.





This was one of our Lighthouses
 we visited in our  "Lighthouse Tour" 
of the Gaspé. 
To view the others, click here.

Thanks for your visit 
💙💙💙