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Eeyou Istchee Baie-James - The Bucket List

 

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10 unforgettable experiences in Eeyou Istchee Baie-James — Adventure, culture, and vastness.
Credit : Mathieu Dupuis

 

 

Explore the immensity of Québec's largest hydroelectric dam

The Robert-Bourassa generating station, with its monumental structures and “giant staircasespillway, offers a fascinating glimpse into Québec's engineering feats in the heart of the North. Visit Radisson, the northernmost village accessible by road in Québec, and camp under a sky so clear it feels unreal.

 

 

Vue aérienne du barrage de la centrale Robert-Bourassa, à Radisson.
Credit : Mathieu Dupuis

 

 

Set off on an eco-cruise with Cree guides

From Waskaganish or Wemindji, board a Wiinipaakw Tours boat to explore the waters of James Bay. Through your guides' stories and the vast coastal landscapes, keep your eyes peeled — belugas, polar bears, and seals may appear on the horizon.

 

 

Image d'un phoque allongé sur le sable mouillé pise au Québec, en Eeyou Istchee Baie-James.
Credit : Katherine Dehm

 

 

Taste a northern-inspired craft beer

In Chibougamau, Maître Renard microbrewery infuses each brew with the unique flavours of the boreal forest. Sample a beer with boreal essences or treat yourself to one of their cocktails or imported wines. The perfect place to relax after a day of adventure.

 

 

 

Vus de près, déposés sur un bar, deux verres remplis de bière (arborant le logo de la Microbrasserie Maître Renard de Chibougamau) et un verre à cocktail, étant lui aussi bien rempli.
Credit : Mathieu Dupuis

 

 

Watch an endless sunset over James Bay

In coastal communities like Waskaganish, Eastmain, Wemindji, or Chisasibi, settle by the water for a peaceful evening picnic. The sky glows orange and pink, reflected in the vast, calming waters of the bay. A suspended moment, almost unreal.

 

 

 

Coucher de soleil sur la Baie James. À contre-jour, une femme dans l'eau jusqu'au niveau de la taille, s'amuse en touchant la surface.
Credit : Samuel Angers

 

 

Discover the living roots of Cree culture

In Oujé-Bougoumou, the Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute is more than a museum: it's a cultural hub, learning centre, archive, library, and interactive digital space. Beneath a roof inspired by the traditional Cree tent, explore the richness of Cree heritage through artefacts, stories, and immersive technology.

 

 

 

Credit : Alysson Gallant

 

 

Catch the trophy fish of your dreams on Lake Mistassini

Québec's largest natural lake invites you to cast a line into its cold, fish-rich waters. Stay at an Indigenous outfitter, head out early by boat, and test your luck… You might just land a walleye or lake trout worthy of the wildest fishing tales.

 

 

 

Credit : Hooké

 

 

Ride through the Obalski Park trails

With Chibougamau Aventure, join a guided mountain biking trip through forests, rivers, and rocky ridges. The well-maintained trails of Obalski Park offer the perfect mix of physical challenge and raw beauty.

 

 

 

 

Sleep on the water in a floating cabin

In the heart of the protected Nibiischii territory, spend an unforgettable night in a floating cabin. Tucked away in Cliff Bay, surrounded by silence, you'll be lulled to sleep by stars and gentle waves.

 

 

Credit : Annie-Claude Roberge

 

 

Explore the boreal forest on a guided hike

At Écogîtes du Lac Matagami, join an enriching nature outing guided by local knowledge. Walk through forest trails and discover medicinal plants, animal tracks, and wild mushrooms.

 

 

Credit : Olivier Langevin

 

 

Look up and be dazzled by the stars

Far from any light pollution, Eeyou Istchee Baie-James is a true sanctuary for stargazers. In fall and winter, the northern lights dance across the sky. In summer, the Milky Way stretches out in all its celestial splendour.