Both the Canadian Shield to the north and the vast alluvial plain bordering the St-Lawrence River have conspired to shape this land. The St-Maurice River, with its 587 km - long drainage basin, can lay claim to being this region's foremost waterway. Four other pristine rivers flank the St-Maurice as it empties into the St-Lawrence. The St-Anne River and the Batiscan River, both to the east and the "Du Loup" and Maskinongé Rivers to the west are equally important to the economic and the recreational tourism industries of these parts. One must not discount the impact Lake St-Pierre plays, given that, ever since it was designated as such by UNESCO in November 2000, it basks in its status as one among the select few in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. Lake St-Pierre is the sole exemplification of a sustainable development undertaking, recognized by the UN, that can boast an international-class, navigable waterway, part of the St-Lawrence Seaway, and this, from one extremity of its expanse to the other. "La Mauricie" selected as the Forestry Capital of Canada for 2001, can count on a National Park, some 75 plus outfitters, 11 ZEC's (or controlled exploitation zones) as well as on two wildlife reserves and a number of regional parks.

Major industries continue to propel the regional economise of "La Mauricie". However, we are veering away from large industry as the sole mover of this economic structure. Take, for example, the St-Maurice River; initially it was used for hydroelectric power, as a waterway for the logging industry and as a means of conveyance for innumerable logs destined to sate the voracious appetites of the pulp and paper mills that still dot the landscape. Nowadays, a change in vocation brought about by the abolition of the annual log drive in 1996, has made it such that the river is being used by one and all for sports, leisure and recreational activities.

Mastigouche Faunal Reserve - About 20 km
Exciting territory in the middle of an exceptional environment, the Mastigouche Faunal Reserve offers everything an outdoor enthousiast can desire. With it's rivers and hundreds of lakes below magestic mountains, outdoor enthusiasts that visit the reserve will be seduced by it's enchanting landscape.

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Ste-Ursule Waterfall Park - About 30 km
Visit the Ste-Ursule Waterfall Park. An interactive experience that brings you in the heart of our park.

St-Édouard Zoo - About 30 km
Come live a unique family experience in the heart of a completely natural environment, complete with animation, fun and relaxation. 85 speecies to discover!

The "Cité de l'énergie" - About 50 km
This unique Canadian thematic park offers it's visitors of all ages an amusing, entertaining and educational experience. Come discover the incredible industrial story of Shawinigan in the last hundred years.

Kosmogonia, la nuit des temps - About 50 km
Multimedia experience that's spectacular as well as intimate and brings you in a universe where comedians, singers, acrobats and dancers face off against thousands of obstacles.

Mauricie National Park - About 60 km
The Mauricie National Park invites you to an intimate meeting with the Laurentians, this moutainous region on the North Shore of the Saint-Lawrence River. This 536 km2 breaths serenity, inspired by the softness of it's relief. This envigorating is equally exciting as it is relaxing.