Cap-Bon-Ami is the best-known spot in Forillon National Park and the picture most people have in mind when they think of the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula. It sits on the north side of the park, reached from the Cap-des-Rosiers entrance, where the cliffs of the peninsula plunge into the Gulf of St. Lawrence and a small cove opens at their foot. The park's visitor information singles it out for its sea cliffs, and the combination of rock, water and sky is why it is the park's most photographed spot. Short trails lead to lookouts over the cove and the cliff face, and the shoreline is a good place to watch for seals, which can be seen from shore, while the open water beyond is where the park's whales are found. Seabirds nest on the cliffs, which adds movement to the scene. The site is part of the national park, so the park's fee applies in season, the trails are self-guided, and the Parks Canada app offers navigation and self-guided tours. Dogs must be on a leash. The cove has a parking area, and the longer trails of the park connect to it for walkers who want to extend the day. The park's operating season runs from late May to mid October, and outside that period the park is open but not maintained and the gates close after the first snow.
What to do
Park at the cove and walk to the lookouts first, because the view of the cliff from the water level is the one that stays with you. Then take the longer path along the coast if the weather allows, with binoculars for the seabirds on the ledges. Early morning and late afternoon give the best light on the face of the cliff, and fog can turn the scene dramatic.
Photographers should bring a wide lens and a long one, because both have a use. Stay on the marked trails and keep well back from the edges, which are steep and can be slippery in wet weather.
Seasons and planning
Services at the park run in the warm months, and the weather at the tip of the peninsula changes quickly, so carry layers and a windproof shell even in July. If you travel late in the season, check the state of the road and the gates, because snow can close the park without much notice. The cove is a short walk from the car, so it suits most visitors, but the longer trails need proper footwear.
Fitting it in
Cap-Bon-Ami is on the same side of the park as the Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse, so the two make a natural pair, with the lighthouse in the morning and the cove after lunch. Most visitors stay in Gaspé town, less than an hour away, so plan the drive both ways. Give it two or three hours, and a full day if you add the coastal trails and a whale cruise from Grande-Grave on the other side of the park.
If you only have a day at Forillon, put this at the centre of it. It is the sight that justifies the long journey to the end of the road.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided visit to the cliffs and cove inside Forillon National Park, with short trails, lookouts and a shoreline for watching seals.
Best time
Late May to mid October when services run; early morning or late afternoon for the light on the cliff.
How long
Two to three hours, or longer if you add the coastal trails.
Tips
Bring a windproof layer, stay on the marked trails and keep dogs on a leash.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Photographers and walkers who want the single most dramatic coastal scene in Forillon.
- Families
- The short walk from the car suits children, but keep them away from the cliff edges.
- Couples
- A slow walk at the end of the day, followed by dinner in Gaspé.
- Pair with
- The Cap-des-Rosiers lighthouse, a whale cruise from Grande-Grave and a night in Gaspé town.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours.
Good questions
Where is Cap-Bon-Ami?+
In the north area of Forillon National Park, reached from the Cap-des-Rosiers entrance.
What is there to see?+
Sea cliffs, a small cove, lookouts and a shoreline where seals can be seen from shore.
Is there a fee?+
A park fee applies in season. Check the Parks Canada fees page before you go.
When is it open?+
The park is accessible all year, but services run from late May to mid October. Outside that time trails are not maintained and the gates close after the first snow.
Can I bring a dog?+
Yes, on a leash.
