If your idea of a perfect day involves coffee, cliffs, and cold drinks, welcome to Plaid & Pine — a rustic, adventure-filled road trip through the heart of Mansfield & Fort-Coulonge.
Whether you’re zipping through the trees, hiking along canyon trails, or sipping a drink and getting your toes in the sand, this little corner of Western Quebec delivers big on thrills, scenery, and that rugged Pontiac charm.
Let’s roll.
9:00 AM — Start Your Day at Café Downtown (Fort-Coulonge)
Start off right with a visit to Café Downtown, a cozy, welcoming café in the heart of Fort-Coulonge. Freshly ground coffee, fresh pastries, and warm smiles are always on the menu. Whether you’re a latte lover or in need of a strong drip to fuel the day, this is the spot.
TIP: Grab a breakfast wrap or meal to-go to fuel your adventure.
Photo Moment: Coffee in hand, with downtown’s quiet charm in the background.
10:00 AM — Choose Your Adventure at Chutes Coulonge Park (Mansfield)
From here, head to the heart of the experience — Chutes Coulonge Park, where nature meets adrenaline in the most scenic way possible. This family and pet-friendly park has something for every adventurer, big or small.
Here are three awesome ways to explore:
1. Aerial Park & Zip Lines
Soar through the trees and test your balance on rope bridges, climbing nets, and ziplines that take you high above the forest floor. It’s fun, challenging, and packed with amazing views — a favorite for families with teens, couples, and adventure junkies.
TIP: Minimum height and age requirements apply — check ahead if bringing littles.
Photo Moment: Mid-zip with the canyon in the background, or high-five at the finish platform.
2. Via Ferrata Canyon Trek
Strap in and take on the cliffside via ferrata — a steel cable hiking route that hugs the rock walls above the Coulonge River. You’ll cross hanging bridges and gaze straight down into the gorge. It’s thrilling, safe, and incredibly scenic.
TIP: No climbing experience needed — just a good sense of adventure and decent footwear.
Photo Moment: Mid-climb on a rock face or standing on a sky bridge with a waterfall view.
3. Historic Canyon Trails
Prefer a peaceful pace? Take the self-guided walking trails that explore the site’s rich log-driving history. You’ll pass interpretive panels, waterfalls, canyon lookouts, and remnants of the 19th-century timber industry that once powered the region.
TIP: Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails — it’s a great option for young kids too.
Photo Moment: Paws on the trail or standing at the outlook with the falls in the background.
4:00 PM — Unwind at Coop Hélianthe (Mansfield)
After a full day in the trees, it’s time to wind down at Coop Hélianthe, a laid-back community space just a few minutes away. You’ve got options here:
- Axe Throwing – Compete with friends and channel your inner lumberjack.
- Drinks on the Deck – Grab a cold local brew or cocktail and kick back.
- Beach Chill Time – Walk down to the on-site beach for a swim or just lounge with your toes in the sand.
TIP: Events and pop-up food vendors happen often — check their socials before you go.
Photo Moment: Throwing axes, drinks in hand by the firepit, or a lakeside sunset snap.
9:00 PM — Stay a Little Longer
If you’re not quite ready to head home, look into local accommodations — rustic cabins, riverside campgrounds, or cozy motels — and make it a full weekend of Pontiac exploring
- Spruceholme Inn
- Chutes Coulonge Yurts & Van Life
- Coop Hélianthe – Van Life & Camping
- Natural Resting Point
- Aventure Coulonge
- Wildwood Nature Escape
Ready to plan your own Plaid & Pine road trip? Grab your flannel, lace up your boots, and tag us in your adventure with #PlaidAndPinePontiac.
Want this whole itinerary mapped out for easy GPS use? Click here for the route and printable version for the glovebox.
