- Did you know that Saint-Jean-des-Piles, located along the majestic Saint-Maurice River, once had up to seven canoe and oar companies? That’s right! This village has a rich history and a unique heritage, which is why it’s nicknamed the “Land of Canoes.”
- To keep this canoeing spirit alive, Saint-Jean-des-Piles has launched a brand-new walking tour called the Parcours du Canot. It consists of two sections: An educational portion, where you’ll learn about the history of this iconic craft. A hands-on experience, where visitors can step into the shoes of a canoe artisan!
- According to our ambassadors, this trail offers a great mix of history and culture, lets you learn while having fun, and—cherry on top—gives you a chance to enjoy the beauty of the village as you walk!
- Educational portion: Start your journey at Maison Cadorette (1701 Chem. de Saint-Jean-des-Piles). Take your time to read the four informational panels and soak in the history and fun facts.
- Hands-on portion: Then, explore the village on foot and “build” your own canoe using clues from the panels scattered throughout the area. The full trail takes about 40 minutes, but don’t worry—you’ll have web resources full of answers to help you craft the perfect canoe. 😉
PSST ! You’ll need your cell phone and internet access to complete the experience!
