Escape into nature… without leaving Saguenay: 5 local ideas to discover
How many times have I typed "Saguenay hiking" or "trails in Saguenay" on Google? Way too many, only to find the same suggestions, several kilometers from downtown, when in fact, several parks are right there, in the heart of Chicoutimi. No need to drive 45 minutes. We're sharing 5 tested and approved ideas (by us, promise) to enjoy nature or take a break from work when you don't have the whole day ahead of you… without leaving the city.
Rivière-du-Moulin: classic (but always effective)
We obviously start with a classic, which won't be a big discovery for those who live in Saguenay, but which is always good to talk about.
Always open, free, and pleasant in summer and winter. Rivière-du-Moulin park has more than 35 km of trails, and a host of activities: walking, cycling, fishing, kayaking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing… and more: check their website for all services
Located just behind the shopping center and well served by buses, the park is easily accessible with or without a car.
The diversity of activities offered makes it a landmark, whether alone or with family. The park even offers equipment rental service, perfect for enjoying winter activities or renting a boat in summer.
Beyond what is offered by the park directly, several companies or individuals also organize activities in the Park, since it is free access. We have already seen beautiful hiking activities organized on SOCIA.
The park is full of small animals, a walk will surely allow you to encounter some squirrels, groundhogs, and more.
Rosaire-Gauthier Park: less known, but even more charming
If you think being downtown prevents you from reconnecting with nature, Rosaire-Gauthier park will clearly surprise you. This discreet park in the heart of downtown hides several small well-maintained trails around small streams. The top of the park is shaded with several exercise machines, picnic tables and quiet corners.
And in summer, that's where it happens: the free Sundays organized by Evenma make the lawns vibrate with outdoor music. You lay down your blanket, your coffee (or your beer!) and you chill. The theme is good vibes, varied activities and local partners who take part in the day. We promise you a beautiful moment to share with family or friends. Keep your eyes open and have the SOCIA reflex, you can sometimes find the details of local partners' activities.
We haven't yet talked about the pool accessible in summer, or the ice rink that takes place in the park in winter.
Honestly, I think it's my favorite!
La Traverse du Coteau: short walk and totem discovery
You may have already noticed sculptures in the middle of the city, at the intersection of Price and Morin streets, without really knowing what it is or if there are others?
Well yes! Several sculpted benches and a totem adorn the edges of La Traverse du Coteau and moreover, they were restored in August 2024 by artist-sculptor Thomas Meloche, enough to feast your eyes.
This small linear urban trail was built on a former railway line in downtown Chicoutimi. The trail is mostly shaded, and offers you a beautiful little walk of 2.5 km in total, but you can also do just a piece of it, since you are in the city.
To know exactly where to join the trail and where the sculptures are, you can refer here: on their website
Less known, but well located, this crossing deserves a place in your top "quick nature" breaks.
Colline Park: a multitude of sports infrastructures
Having lived in north Chicoutimi for a few years, Colline Park has certainly been one of the most beautiful discoveries, especially in terms of infrastructure.
A lot of investments have been made in recent years, and beautiful improvements have been made.
So here, no trail, but enough to delight the whole family! We're talking about: skateboard, BMX, hockey, soon a Ninja course, roller tracks, one of the largest Baseball fields in the region, and since July 2025, a brand new 25-meter heated pool.
To get a video overview of the facilities, you can check out the very good video from Ville Saguenay: The video
No more need to run around to do different activities, everything is nearby, to delight all passions, in the city.
Croix de Saint-Anne: your best sunsets
I can't end with anything else. It overlooks north Chicoutimi, so we know it, you'll tell me, yes, but I never tire of the magnificent sunsets that Croix de Saint-Anne Park offers us.
Day or night, the park is easily accessible and offers a breathtaking view.
Renovations have been done in recent years, they notably installed beautiful glass as railings.
It's more of a spot than a trail, but very pleasant to get some fresh air and contemplate the Fjord and city and feast your eyes.
With these gems, it's easy to optimize all your little free moments to enjoy nature.
SOCIA helps you find this kind of local little treasures and plenty of other ideas for local activities that are too little known. To see the activities currently available, it's this way: Discover