Quebec is a province rich in history and culture, but beyond its vibrant cities and picturesque landscapes, there are numerous abandoned places that tell stories of the past. From crumbling industrial relics to eerie ghost towns, these sites offer a glimpse into Quebec’s forgotten history. Here are 10 of the most captivating abandoned places in Quebec, perfect for urban explorers and history buffs alike.
1. Val-Jalbert Ghost Town (Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec)
Once a booming industrial town in the early 1900s, Val-Jalbert is now one of Quebec’s most famous ghost towns. Built around a pulp mill, the town was abandoned in the 1920s when the mill closed. Today, visitors can explore the crumbling homes, schools, and churches that remain, all set against the stunning backdrop of waterfalls and forests. The eerie silence of this once-bustling community makes it a haunting destination.
2. Mirabel Airport (Mirabel, Quebec)
Mirabel Airport was once heralded as the airport of the future when it opened in 1975. However, due to poor planning and location, the airport quickly became a financial failure and was abandoned in 2004. The abandoned terminal building and overgrown runways create a surreal, post-apocalyptic atmosphere. Parts of the airport have been demolished, but the site remains a favorite for urban explorers intrigued by its modern ruins.
3. The Redpath Mansion (Montreal, Quebec)
Once a grand mansion in Montreal’s prestigious Golden Square Mile, the Redpath Mansion was left abandoned for decades. The home, built in the late 19th century by the wealthy Redpath family, fell into disrepair and was the subject of numerous redevelopment plans. Though much of it has since been demolished, what remains of the once-luxurious house still attracts those drawn to its history and haunting presence.
4. Silo No. 5 (Old Port of Montreal, Quebec)
Situated in the heart of Montreal’s Old Port, Silo No. 5 is an abandoned grain silo complex built in the early 20th century. The massive, crumbling concrete structures are a testament to Montreal’s industrial past. While access to the interior is restricted, the towering silos and rusting machinery make for a fascinating exploration of industrial decay from the outside.
5. RCA Victor Factory (Montreal, Quebec)
Once the largest record production plant in the world, the RCA Victor Factory in St-Henri, Montreal, has been abandoned for decades. The site, once bustling with activity as records were produced for millions, is now a haunting relic of a bygone era. Though partially redeveloped, many sections of the factory remain decayed, with rusting equipment, broken windows, and graffiti-covered walls.
6. Manicouagan Reservoir (Manic-5, Quebec)
The Manicouagan Reservoir in northern Quebec is home to the Daniel-Johnson Dam, one of the largest multiple-arch-and-buttress dams in the world. While the dam itself is still in use, the surrounding areas are filled with abandoned construction camps and villages that were left behind after the project’s completion in the 1960s. The isolation and decaying structures add a ghostly presence to this remote location.
7. St. Raphael’s Ruins (Île-Bizard, Quebec)
Located on Île-Bizard, the St. Raphael’s Ruins are the remains of a church built in the early 19th century. The church was partially destroyed by fire, leaving only the stone walls and archways standing. Now overgrown with ivy and trees, the ruins have become a peaceful yet eerie site that offers a glimpse into the region’s religious past.
8. St. Elizabeth’s Asylum (Baker Lake, Quebec)
Once a facility for mental health patients, St. Elizabeth’s Asylum was abandoned after it closed its doors in the late 20th century. The crumbling walls, overgrown grounds, and dark, empty corridors make this an unsettling place to visit. Stories of paranormal activity and mistreatment at the facility add to its eerie reputation, making it a popular spot for ghost hunters and explorers.
9. New Liverpool Quarry (Lévis, Quebec)
Located near Lévis, the New Liverpool Quarry was once an active limestone quarry that provided building materials for much of the province. Abandoned for decades, the site is now a decaying industrial wasteland filled with rusting machinery, crumbling buildings, and vast, empty pits. The overgrown surroundings and crumbling infrastructure make this a hauntingly beautiful place for exploration.
10. Gagnon Ghost Town (Côte-Nord, Quebec)
Gagnon is a ghost town in northern Quebec that was once a thriving mining town. Founded in the 1950s, Gagnon was abandoned in the 1980s after the nearby iron mines closed. Today, nothing remains of the town except crumbling foundations and overgrown roads. The isolation of the area and the emptiness of the once-bustling town provide a haunting atmosphere for those willing to venture into Quebec’s remote regions.
Conclusion
Quebec’s abandoned places offer a unique glimpse into the province’s history, from ghost towns and decaying industrial sites to forgotten asylums and crumbling mansions. These locations provide a hauntingly beautiful experience for urban explorers and history enthusiasts. As always, it’s important to prioritize safety and respect property laws when visiting these sites, as many are dangerous or off-limits. For those who explore responsibly, these abandoned places offer an unforgettable journey into the forgotten corners of Quebec’s past.
