An Exceptional Site at the Summit of Mont-Mégantic

Perched atop Mont-Mégantic, the design of a project at such altitude was not without challenges: protecting fragile ecosystems, adapting to variable topography, facing harsh climatic conditions, and emphasizing nighttime use were all key considerations in the development process.
Smith Vigeant was commissioned to work with the Sépaq team to produce a master plan for the revitalization of the Mont-Mégantic summit. This first phase focuses primarily on creating a stargazing site for visitors to Mont-Mégantic National Park.

Three Main Interventions

The mandate is composed of three key components:

The activity centre, a glass geodesic dome with a capacity of 90 people. At night, it provides visitor reception and programming during inclement weather.

The lookout, a jetty projecting from the mountaintop into the void, staging panoramic views and multiple perspectives on the landscape, the boreal forest, and above all, the starry sky.

The terrace, equipped with astronomy instruments, including three public telescopes strategically placed to optimize sky views and allow smooth visitor circulation.

A Unique Experience Between Sky and Earth

These distinct elements are harmoniously combined to create a mountain and stargazing experience for visitors, both by day and by night. A mobile telescope shelter, high-caliber astronomy equipment, a geodesic dome, a photoluminescent circulation path, and a Milky Way–inspired bench are brought together at the mountain’s summit to craft an experience between sky and earth.

Mandate Relevance

Infrastructure for a National Park

High-altitude facility for hikers and the general public

Integration of bioclimatic principles

Integrated design approach