Two New Playgrounds for Mountain Bikers

Writing

Laura Martin, she shares her crushes and discoveries with us for our greatest happiness!

Article published on June 12, 2026

Mountain biking is on the rise in Bas-Saint-Laurent. Trails are multiplying and attracting a growing number of enthusiasts, hands firmly gripping the handlebars and smiles plastered on their faces. Proof of this excitement: two new centres are welcoming adrenaline lovers into the forest. Hang on tight!

Sentiers Baseley, Dégelis

Managed by the municipality, Sentiers Baseley offers 12 trails totalling 15 kilometres. The site’s main strengths?

An impressive elevation drop of nearly 190 metres, very affordable access, proximity to the campground and beach, a superb view of Lake Témiscouata, but above all a free bike loan service (electric or otherwise).

“It allows people passing through, who left their bikes at home or who may never have practised this sport in their lives, to give it a try,” says Isabelle Pelletier, Director of Dégelis’s Recreation Department.

This town of fewer than 3,000 residents has nothing to envy other parks in the region. It chose to invest in attracting adventure tourists to Témiscouata. After a first season, the bet seems to have paid off.

“A small group of citizens, quite persistent, had been asking us for trails in the mountain for 15 years. By visiting the site with them, we realized its full potential. It’s amazing to see how many people, of all ages, are ready to let loose in the mountain!”

Because of the steep slope, the trails are mainly intended for intermediate and advanced cyclists. Good news: a new beginner-friendly section is being added this summer.

Cyclists can park at the bottom of the slopes, where the welcome chalet and loan station are located, or at the top.

It is also possible to start your descents halfway down the mountain to spare your calves just a little.

Parc du Mont-Saint-Mathieu, Saint-Mathieu-de-Rioux

Few mountain biking centres in Quebec can boast the luxury of a chairlift. Parc du Mont-Saint-Mathieu is one of those lucky ones. Already well known to skiers, the mountain is becoming, as of June 20, a summer paradise for adrenaline seekers.

“For a long time, we wanted to maximize the potential of our existing infrastructure. With the growing enthusiasm for outdoor sports and nature experiences, we saw a unique opportunity to diversify our offer while strengthening our mission as a four-season destination,” says communications coordinator Juliette Gauvin.

The centre stands out, of course, for its modern chairlift, which allows visitors to maximize their time on the trails and avoid tiring too quickly, but that is not all.

Designed by a globally recognized specialized firm, its trail network, which focuses on cyclist progression, is another strength.

“From opening day, beginners, families, intermediate riders and even experts will have access to trails suited to developing their skills. It’s an aspect that matters greatly to us.”

Group and private lessons are also available with certified instructors.

Saint-Mathieu-De-RiouxEdouard Castonguay

To extend their experience in this exceptional setting, visitors will also be able to play a round of golf on site or spend the night at the foot of the mountain in one of the five mini cabins. Practical, especially when your legs are burning…

Ambitious, the Parc du Mont-Saint-Mathieu project will unfold over several years. But it is already getting off to a flying start: just a few months after receiving its first tire tracks, it will host a round of the Coupe Québec de descente on September 19 and 20, 2026. A first for Eastern Quebec.

Les Sentiers Baseley

380 route 295,
Dégelis,
Québec G5T 1R2

T. 4188532655

Website

See the card

Vélo de montagne Mont-Saint-Mathieu

121, chemin du Lac Sud,
Saint-Mathieu-de-Rioux,
Québec G0L 3T0

T. 4187382298

Website

See the card

Back to the Webzine

Did you like this article?