Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Région du Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
Saguenay-Lake St. John
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Région
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Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean's location in comparison to the whole Canadian province of Quebec.
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| Country |  Canada |
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| Province |  Québec |
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| Area | ||
| • Total | 98,708.62 km2 (38,111.61 sq mi) | |
| Population
(2006)
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| • Total | 272,610 | |
| • Density | 2.76176/km2 (7.15294/sq mi) | |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (EST) | |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) | |
| Website | Portail de la Région du Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean | |
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Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean is a large region in Quebec, Canada. It is known for its beautiful nature, big lakes, and deep fjords. This area is a great place for outdoor adventures and learning about Quebec's history.
Contents
Discovering Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
This region is located in the central part of Quebec. It is north of the St. Lawrence River. The area is named after two main features: the Saguenay River and Lac Saint-Jean (Lake Saint-Jean). It covers a huge area of about 98,700 square kilometers. That's bigger than many countries!
Geography and Natural Wonders
The landscape here is very diverse. You can find vast forests, many rivers, and large lakes. The most famous natural features are the Saguenay Fjord and Lac Saint-Jean.
The Saguenay Fjord: A Deep Waterway
The Saguenay Fjord is a long, deep valley carved by glaciers. It is now filled with water from the Saguenay River. This fjord is one of the longest in the world. Its steep cliffs and deep waters make it a stunning sight. Many marine animals, like beluga whales, live in its waters.
Lac Saint-Jean: A Giant Lake
Lac Saint-Jean is the third-largest lake in Quebec. It is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. The lake is fed by several rivers. It drains into the Saguenay River. Many towns and villages are located around its shores.
Climate and Seasons
The Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region has a humid continental climate. This means it has warm summers and very cold, snowy winters. Each season offers different activities. Summer is perfect for water sports. Winter is ideal for skiing and snowmobiling.
History of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean Region
The history of this region is rich. It goes back thousands of years. Indigenous peoples lived here long before Europeans arrived. Later, it became important for the fur trade and logging.
Early Inhabitants and European Arrival
The Innu people were the first inhabitants of this land. They lived by hunting, fishing, and trapping. European explorers and traders arrived in the 17th century. They came looking for furs. The Saguenay River was a key route for the fur trade.
Logging and Industry
In the 19th century, logging became a major industry. The vast forests provided wood for building and paper. Later, hydroelectricity became very important. The region's many rivers were perfect for building power dams. This led to the growth of aluminum production.
People and Culture
About 272,610 people lived in the region in 2006. Most people speak French. The culture is a mix of traditional Quebecois life and modern influences.
Local Traditions and Festivals
The people of Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean are proud of their heritage. They celebrate many local festivals. These events often feature traditional music, food, and crafts. The region is also known for its delicious blueberries.
Economy and Jobs
The economy here relies on several key industries. These include:
- Forestry: Harvesting wood and making paper products.
- Aluminum Production: Large factories use hydroelectricity to make aluminum.
- Agriculture: Farming, especially blueberry cultivation.
- Tourism: Visitors come to enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean
This region offers many exciting activities for young people. Whether you love nature or learning about history, there's something for everyone.
Outdoor Adventures
- Whale Watching: In the Saguenay Fjord, you can see beluga whales and other marine life.
- Hiking and Biking: Many trails wind through forests and along the fjord.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the calm waters of the lakes and rivers.
- Winter Sports: Skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling are popular in winter.
Exploring Cities and Towns
The largest city in the region is Saguenay. It was formed by combining several smaller towns. It offers museums, parks, and cultural events. Other towns around Lac Saint-Jean are also worth visiting.
Images for kids
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A friendly robot icon.
See also
In Spanish: Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean para niños
