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Drives Quebec Quebec City, Charlevoix, the Saguenay and the Gaspé

Route 389: Baie-Comeau to Manic-5

Route 389, Boulevard Pierre-Ouellet · Baie-Comeau → Manic-5

Leisurely131 mi2 hr 40 min8,600 ft climbHigh point ≈ 1,900 ftOne way
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The drive

Route 389 runs north from Baie-Comeau through the boreal forest to the Daniel-Johnson Dam at Manic-5 and the Daniel-Johnson Reservoir. It is a paved two-lane road of about 130 miles with long climbs and few services.

The dam is the destination. Hydro-Québec describes it as the world's largest multiple-arch-and-buttress dam, with 13 arches and 14 buttresses, and a lookout is open at any time. Free guided tours of the dam and the Manic-5 station run from mid-June to the end of August, by online reservation made at least 24 hours ahead. They are generally in French, and English can be requested. The interpretation center where they start is at kilometer 214 of Route 389.

Route 389 continues past Manic-5 toward Fermont; this drive ends at the dam.

Along the way

  1. Baie-Comeau
  2. Manic-5
Elevation
8,600 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 1,900 ft
Baie-ComeauManic-5
Curves
Mostly gentle curves
Baie-ComeauManic-5
GentleHairpins

Good to know

  • Fuel is scarce on this road; fill up before leaving Baie-Comeau.
  • Logging trucks use the road, so pull over safely where you can to let them pass.
  • Dam tours require a reservation and photo ID, and cameras and phones are not allowed inside.
  • Beyond the dam, pavement gives way to gravel in places.

Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check Québec 511.

Questions about this drive

How long is Route 389 from Baie-Comeau to Manic-5?

Route 389 from Baie-Comeau to Manic-5 is 131.2 miles and takes about 2 hr 39 min.

Are the Manic-5 dam tours free?

Yes. Hydro-Québec's Manic-5 tours are free, run from mid-June to the end of August, and require online reservations at least 24 hours ahead.

Is there gas on Route 389 to Manic-5?

Services are very limited, so fill the tank in Baie-Comeau before driving Route 389.

Is there a view of the dam without a tour?

Yes. The Manikuakanishtiku lookout at the Daniel-Johnson Dam is open anytime.

What you get in the app

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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

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Map of Route 389: Baie-Comeau to Manic-5, from Baie-Comeau to Manic-5