Rivière du Brick facts for kids

The Brick River (also known as Rivière du Brick in French) is a river in Quebec, Canada. It flows into the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. This river is located on Anticosti Island, which is part of the Minganie Regional County Municipality in the Côte-Nord region.

A forest road runs along the west side of the Brick River valley. This road connects the southern tip of the island to the main road on the northern side. Another branch of this road goes southeast to meet a forest road along the southern coast.

The main activity in this area is forestry, which involves managing forests for timber. Tourism and recreational activities are also important here.

Where Does the Brick River Start and End?

The Brick River begins where two mountain streams meet. This starting point is high up, about 239 m (784 ft) above sea level, in the middle of Anticosti Island.

The river's source is located:

• About 81.8 km (50.8 mi) east of the village of Port-Menier.
• About 32.6 km (20.3 mi) south of the island's north shore.
• About 18.7 km (11.6 mi) northeast of the island's south shore.

From its source, the Brick River flows for 27.0 km (16.8 mi). It drops about 238 m (781 ft) in elevation along its path.

The river flows mainly south through a deep valley. It collects water from many smaller streams along the way. Near the end, it passes under a forest road bridge. Finally, the Brick River empties into the Gulf of Saint Lawrence on the south shore of Anticosti Island.

The mouth of the river is located:

• About 15.5 km (9.6 mi) east of Pointe-Sud-Ouest.
• About 21.4 km (13.3 mi) southeast of the Jupiter River mouth.
• About 86.9 km (54.0 mi) southeast of Port-Menier village.

What's the Story Behind the Name "Brick River"?

The name "Brick River" has been used since the early 1900s. It comes from a type of two-masted sailing ship called a brig. A brig ship was wrecked in this area, which led to the river being named after it.

The name "Brick River" became official on December 5, 1968. This was done by the Commission de toponymie du Québec, which is in charge of place names in Quebec.

What is the Lac-Salé Ecological Reserve?

In 1991, the Quebec government created the "Lac-Salé Ecological Reserve." This special protected area covers about 7,000 hectares (about 17,300 acres).

This reserve was set up to protect nature. It includes parts of the Brick River, starting from where it meets the Honguedo Strait. The reserve extends up the river and then east towards the Galiote River. It then follows the Galiote River south back to the Honguedo Strait.

Fun Things to Do at the Brick River

The Brick River area is a great place for outdoor activities and enjoying nature.

Exploring the Brick Canyon

The Brick canyon is one of the most exciting places on Anticosti Island. Its walls can reach up to 75 m (246 ft) in height. At a spot called Brick-la-Roche, about 6 km (3.7 mi) up the river, you can see amazing views of the canyon. The area has a flat top and rocky slopes. Many different kinds of plants grow here. The river itself has beautiful emerald-green water pools that are perfect for swimming.

Hikers can learn about geology by looking at fossils in the rock faces. You can also walk in the water on the river's stony bottom.

In 2000, a building called the Satellite pavilion was moved to the mouth of the Brick River. This was done by SÉPAQ Anticosti to make it easier for nature lovers to visit.

Fishing and Hunting Activities

The Brick River is known for its sea trout. However, since 1993, it is no longer considered a salmon river under Quebec fishing rules. This means you won't find salmon here for sport fishing.

In 1983, the government introduced camping and hunting opportunities at the Brick River. This helped to increase the number of visitors who could enjoy hunting on Anticosti Island.