Discover the Top 5 urbex sites in Quebec: explore fascinating abandoned places, perfect for lovers of adventure and mystery.
Quebec, with its rich historical and architectural heritage, offers fertile ground for urban exploration enthusiasts, commonly known as urbex . Between industrial ruins, abandoned villages, and historic buildings, the province abounds with fascinating places that bear witness to a bygone era. While respecting the law and safety guidelines, here are five must-see urbex sites to discover in Quebec.
1. The Ghost Village of Val-Jalbert
Located near Lac-Saint-Jean, the Village of Val-Jalbert is a former industrial village abandoned in the 1920s after the closure of its pulp and paper mill. Now transformed into a historical park, it offers an immersive experience with its restored houses and ruined buildings. Visitors can stroll through the deserted streets, tour the mill, and admire the 72-meter waterfall, all while learning about the history of this forgotten community.
2. The Old Soulanges Canal
Built in the early 20th century to bypass the rapids of the St. Lawrence River, the Old Soulanges Canal is a testament to the maritime engineering of the era. Abandoned since the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway, the canal and its locks offer a picturesque landscape. The trails along the canal are open to the public, allowing visitors to explore the concrete structures and enjoy a historical walk in nature.
3. The Grain Silos of Sillery
Located in Quebec City, the Sillery Grain Silos are remnants of the city's industrial port past. These imposing concrete structures, though no longer in use, still dominate the riverfront landscape. While access to the interior is prohibited for safety reasons, the silos can be admired from the riverbanks, offering an impressive view and an opportunity to reflect on the region's economic history.
4. The King Mine (Jeffrey Mine) in Asbestos
The King Mine , also known as the Jeffrey Mine , is one of the largest open-pit asbestos mines in the world. Located in the town of Asbestos (recently renamed Val-des-Sources), the mine ceased operations in 2011. A secure observation deck allows visitors to view the gigantic crater and mining facilities, offering a striking glimpse into Quebec's mining history. It is important to respect the fenced areas for safety reasons.
5. The Beauharnois Power Station Historic Site
The Beauharnois Generating Station is an active hydroelectric power station located on the St. Lawrence River. While the station itself is not abandoned, the old, disused facilities and auxiliary buildings surrounding the site are of interest to urban explorers. Hydro-Québec offers guided tours of the station, allowing visitors to discover the history of this iconic infrastructure while respecting safety and access regulations.
Discover the best urban exploration locations with our maps!
Looking for the best urban exploration spots near you? Look no further! Whether you're a seasoned urban explorer or a curious amateur, our maps are full of abandoned places to explore. Discover our maps!
