Road Trip to La Tuque | 3 Days to Fall in Love with Haute-Mauricie

We often ride to La Tuque to explore La Mauricie National Park, take Highway 155, or head toward Saguenay… but do you really know this region and everything it has to offer?

My riding partner, Geneviève Dubois (on the Ibex 800 provided by CFMOTO), and I (on the BMW F800GS provided by BMW Saguenay) set out to discover this beautiful area for you!

Between rivers, covered bridges, thrilling hills, and perfectly smoked ribs, we came back with full hearts (and stomachs).

3 Must-See Routes

1. The Hydroelectric Power Plant Route

We appreciate the convenience of electricity every day without really realizing it, because we were born with this ease, which allows us to do so much today.

After visiting the lookout at the La Tuque hydroelectric power plant, we left with many new insights. We couldn’t visit the inside, but it was still very impressive to see where our electricity comes from.

Did you know that:

• The idea to build a dam and hydroelectric power plant in La Tuque dates back to 1905, and construction began in 1909?
• Of the original construction, only concrete remains remain, which you can see?
• The original power plant was without a dam, since the river’s headwaters were sufficient?
• It was in 1910 that the first power plant, the Brown Power Plant, finally provided electricity, first to the Brown Paper Mill, and later to the streets of La Tuque?
• It was in 1940 that the current new power plant, now called the La Tuque Power Plant, was commissioned?
• If it’s called “La Tuque,” is it because there used to be a mountain shaped like a tuque there?

The hydroelectric power plant road will then take you to the La Trenche power plant, the tallest and largest, with its 48-meter waterfall. You can even drive over it since the road passes over the dam!

Next, you’ll head to the Rapide-Blanc power plant, a road where you can capture images of nature, forests, lakes, and rivers, and where you can even see houses dating back to the 1930s!

Note that you’ll need to fill up with gas in La Tuque, as there are no gas stations on this road.

2. The Covered Bridges Route, during your visit to La Bostonnais

La Bostonnais is the neighboring municipality of La Tuque. And it’s a must-see! It’s simple: we love covered bridges, and there are two of them close together. That’s why it’s called “The Covered Bridges Route of La Bostonnais.”

The Thiffaut Bridge is named after its builder, Raymond Thiffault.

• Construction: 1946
• Length: 41.73 m
• Width: 6.39 m
• Watercourse: Bostonnais River
• Clearance: 3.20 m
• Displayed load: 8 tons

The Ducharme Bridge is named in honor of MP Romulus Ducharme, who was responsible for the construction of this covered bridge. This bridge was designated a historic monument in March 2006.

• Construction: 1946
• Length: 137 feet
• Watercourse: Bostonnais River
• Clearance: 3.10 m
• Displayed load: 5 tons

Near this bridge is Ducharme Park, ideal for taking a break in the great outdoors. Whether you’re alone or with your family, this place has it all: a children’s play structure, a public barbecue, picnic areas, a gazebo, restrooms, and even a place to pitch your tent if you’re a fan of motorcycle camping.

You can also learn a wealth of interesting information from the themed panels and the giant sculptures of local birds that accompany them.

When you pass by, keep in mind that these works were created by a local artist with a chainsaw! There are clearly some who are more talented than me, obviously!

Ducharme Park is a little community treasure bordered by a calm river, perfect for relaxing or taking a break between rides! And take a picture of your motorcycle near the covered bridge, of course!

3. Chemin de la Rivière Croche to sleep in a dome!

My favorite little route was the Chemin de la Rivière Croche, which led us to Méandre – Outdoor Accommodation, where I was able to sleep in a dome for the first time in my life!

What can I say about this magnificent place… sleeping under the stars, with the sounds of the forest, in this magnificent dome, without electricity or Wi-Fi: it’s a return to Life, the Real Life! If you’re a nature lover, you’ll have everything you need to spend one of the most pleasant and relaxing moments in a long time.

You can’t help but say “Wow” when you step onto the terrace under the dome: furnished with swings around a cable reel table, a hammock, a wooden sofa, and a charcoal barbecue. You can warm up around an outdoor fire, or if you prefer, head to the Spa located in the central Dome, just a few steps away.

At your disposal, a lovely 4km trail along the Croche River, or even a tube (inflatable buoy) to go down the Croche River, from one beach to the other, in complete tranquility. Not to mention the small lake, where you can simply relax on the dock or go SUP (stand-up paddleboarding).

For more athletic bikers, there is also the option of renting bikes for a 20km forest trail, or watercraft (canoe, kayak, paddleboard).

Although there is no electricity, we have everything we need to cook with the propane stove, cutlery, and cooking utensils, and solar energy provides discreet and magical lighting.

Without a doubt, I, who have always dreamed of sleeping in a dome, was fortunate to have been able to enjoy this ecotourism resort in the Haute-Mauricie region. Thank you for the unforgettable welcome.

My 3 culinary favorites – to put on your “to eat” list

1- La P’tite Côte Barbecue

Let’s be clear: I ate one of the best plates of ribs of my life at La P’Tite Côte Barbecue. Everything is homemade, the service is ultra-friendly… and it’s exactly what you need after a long day of driving.

After being first greeted by a customer in the queue, who recommended the “Trip à 3” poutine –

A funny moment as my colleague Geneviève Dubois and I looked at him, as if to say, “Uh, no, no trip à 3,” before realizing he was talking about an item on the menu…

This regular customer recommended almost every dish on the menu, passionately declaring that “everything is good here!”

And I can confirm—oh, my, God!—that everything was absolutely delicious. We received smoked salmon, ribs, and homemade salads from the owner.

The on-site team welcomed us like family, with a big smile and super fast and efficient service. In a restaurant, you know when people love their job or not. Here, they clearly love their job. We feel at home! Tell me more about it when you go.

2. Biztro Le Mauricien

The chef-owner himself welcomed us to Biztro Le Mauricien – and what a welcome! We truly felt like stars! Everyone in this restaurant receives unique service. We could see that the entire team recognizes regulars and treats new customers with the utmost care.

But, the menu… phew… I’m salivating just thinking about it. We shared a starter of Grand Marnier-flamed shrimp with guacamole and Mexican salsa…

Geneviève indulged in one of the signature dishes: the red wine-braised lamb shank with creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed mushrooms… I enjoyed the pork osso bucco with delicious pasta in a homemade rosé sauce.

There’s so much love in all her dishes and presentations; I’ve never seen anything like it. Even with the catering service, each recipe is deliciously prepared.

Since a picture is worth a thousand words, take a look and you’ll understand why this is where you’ll be enjoying yourself the next time you visit La Tuque.

3. Le Boké – Restaurant, Gourmet Boutique, Butcher Shop, Caterer

Despite the rainy day, we opted for the terrace of Le Boké restaurant to discover this culinary experience. Without asking, our friendly waitress opened the patio heater for us, which created a very warm atmosphere. This bodes well for attentive and impeccable service.

It’s simple here, the rustic yet contemporary decor charms us from the moment we arrive. There’s something for everyone: burgers, grilled meats, salads, fish, and seafood.

We opted for the tartares: two salmon with green apples and classic salmon & guacamole. Succulent is the word that best describes these recipes. Not to mention the warm brie casserole with apricots, cranberries, and maple syrup… Mmmmm… You definitely want to go there to satisfy your taste buds.

Take the time to visit the Gourmet Shop, which is full of homemade products. A word of advice: save some space in your tail bag before you leave, because I promise you’ll want to take some home with you!

Special mention for the people!

It’s impossible to write this article without mentioning the people behind the place. As a workaholic, I identified with their dedication and 24/7 hard work! These people are there, every day, to ensure their guests (including you!) have an unforgettable time.

• The owners of Domaine Le Bostonnais: passionate, welcoming, and dedicated, every detail of their accommodation exudes attention to detail.
• The owners of Biztro Le Mauricien: warm and generous, their menu is a true blend of Mauricie and love.

And of course… my colleague Geneviève Dubois, from Chicks & Machines. We don’t see each other often, but this road trip allowed me to discover a brilliant, bubbly, and truly inspiring woman. (Geneviève, you’re perfect!)

She even wrote another article to tell you about her favorites and the stops we haven’t covered yet.

Why STAY (and not just pass through) in La Tuque by motorcycle?

Because in addition to Route 155, there are several beautiful roads to explore.
Because you can ride between covered bridges, lookouts, and BBQs.
Because it’s still a less-than-touristy area… so it’s still pure, true, and generous.
Because you’ll come back with memories to last a lifetime.

The next time you’re in La Tuque, tell me, which of the restaurants and roads did you like best?

Cathy Lam

Follow me on all platforms at @cathylam.moto