Miguasha: the Age of Fishes… Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Miguasha is a fossil-rich site renowned worldwide for its unusually well-preserved fossils. The park will fascinate visitors of all ages who can journey through time to discover plant and fish fossils dating from the Devonian Period, some 380 million years ago.
The permanent exhibition, From Water to Land, presents some of the most beautiful fossil specimens found in Québec, which bear witness to life on early hundreds of millions of years ago. The Elpistostege: The Origins of a Quest exhibition will introduce you to the only complete specimen of Elpistostege watsoni ever found in the world. Preliminary research on this fish fossil suggests that it could be the closest relative to tetrapods, vertebrates with legs. Find out more about why this fossil, nicknamed Elpi, is of paramount importance in evolutionary biology. The exhibition includes an impressive multimedia presentation. Guided tours of the exhibition room and the cliff are offered from June 1 to October 12; during this period, the park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In May and October, you can discover the park on your own on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
After your visit to the museum, wander along the “Evolution of Life” trail that runs along the fossil-rich cliff and offers exceptional views of the Restigouche Estuary. This 3.5-km (2-mi.) loop trail includes information panels that recount the evolution of life on earth. In July and August, enjoy a puppet show that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages. Interpretive activities are also offered, in French only (see website for details).
Back at the museum, pop into the L’Échoppe gift shop, where you will find a selection of original items for sale. Clothing, jewellery, books, decorative objects, minerals and fossils make unique gifts or souvenirs. Some 30 artists and artisans sell their beautiful creations here. The shop is open from April 27 to October 23 during park opening hours.
Finally, why not stop for a bite to eat at Le Dévonien lunch counter. On the menu: delicious lobster, crab, smoked salmon and shrimp sandwiches, made with local seafood. Salads, soups, desserts and beverages are also available. Take advantage of the patio with a magnificent view. The lunch counter is open from mid-June to early September.
Opening dates
The exhibitions and park services are open from June 19 to October 23. Administrative offices and the research centre are open year-round.
Cost
Admission fees for park : $8.90/adult, free for children (under 18). Rates valid until December 31, 2020. Admission fees for museum. Group rate for groups of 15+. Network and park passes available. You must buy your daily access right online before your visit in a national park. https://www.sepaq.com/parksaccessReservations
Required for groups at all timesPayment methods
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Visa
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MasterCard
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American Express
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Interac
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Cash
Activities available
Services
- Picnic area
- Pets allowed on leashes only
- Boutique
- Restaurant or snack bar
- Conference/meeting room
- Free parking
How to get there
The park is located on Miguasha Point, at the edge of the municipality of Nouvelle. On Route 132, follow directions to Route de Miguasha, either from Nouvelle or Escuminac.
Affiliations and distinctions
Affiliations
- Parcs Québec network (SÉPAQ)
- Québec Museums Association (SMQ)
- Tourisme Gaspésie
- Tourisme Baie-des-Chaleurs
Distinctions
- National park since 1985
- UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999
- Regional winner of a Québec Tourism Award in the "Tourism Organization of the Year, Public Sector" category (2004)
- Certified Quality Tourism Gaspésie