1. OFFICIAL HBD ROUTE
CLERMONT → ROUTE DU FLEUVE → ROUTE 138 → SHAWINIGAN
Leave Clermont on Route 138 to La Malbaie. Follow Route 362, known as Route du Fleuve, through Saint-Irénée and Les Éboulements to Baie-Saint-Paul. Continue on Route 138 toward Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, use a short section of Highway 40 to bypass Quebec City, then return to Route 138 at Saint‑Augustin-de-Desmaures. Follow Route 138 and Route 157 north to Shawinigan.
Traffic, construction and stops can change distance and time. Always check Google Maps and road conditions on departure day.
2. STOPS WORTH THE DETOUR
OFFICIAL SITES FOR PLACES ALONG THE ROUTE
Canyon Sainte-Anne
A 74-metre waterfall with suspension bridges and lookouts near Saint-Joachim.
Vieux Chemin de Cap-Santé
A heritage street with Sainte-Famille Church and St. Lawrence River views.
Cap Lauzon
A Chemin du Roy viewpoint over the St. Lawrence River in Deschambault.
Old Batiscan Presbytery
A heritage building and short historical trail toward the river. Check seasonal opening hours.
3. DISCOVER SHAWINIGAN
THE CITY OF ENERGY
Giant skull landmark
The motorcycle photo landmark is at Cité de l’énergie, 1000 Avenue Melville. Confirm access before visiting.
Hydro-Québec Observation Tower
A 115-metre tower with 360-degree views of Shawinigan and the Saint-Maurice River.
Saint-Maurice Promenade
An easy waterside walk across from the hotel and close to Cité de l’énergie.
Hôtel Énergie
We stayed here with Harley. Confirm the current dog policy, fees and eligible rooms before booking.
4. PRACTICAL TIPS
PREPARE FOR A LONG DAY ON THE ROAD
Stay on Route 138
After Saint‑Augustin-de-Desmaures, follow Route 138 and Chemin du Roy signs. Do not follow a route suggestion that sends you back toward Highway 40.
Fuel and breaks
Fill up before long stretches and allow extra time for photos, food and visits.
Check before leaving
Review Québec 511, weather, construction, opening hours and dog policies on the day of travel.