Manicouagan Reservoir

Manicouagan Reservoir is a ring-shaped body of water covering 1,942 square kilometers (750 square miles) in Quebec, Canada, encircling Île René-Levasseur at its center. Mount Babel rises on this central island, reaching a height of 952 meters (3,123 feet) above sea level, while the water surface surrounds the mainland in a wide arc.

A meteorite impact 214 million years ago created a crater that filled with water over time and became a lake. The construction of the Daniel Johnson Dam in 1971 enlarged the natural water body and shaped it into its present form by damming the Manicouagan River.

The name comes from the Innu language and refers to tree bark used in traditional canoe building, showing the connection to the indigenous culture of this region. This linguistic origin recalls the long presence of native peoples in this part of Quebec, long before the reservoir was created.

The Daniel Johnson Dam regulates water levels and generates electricity through several power stations along the river. The area is remote, and access roads mainly lead to the power generation facilities and a few viewpoints along the shore.

The circular shape forms a ring of water visible from space and has become known as the Eye of Quebec. Satellite images show the nearly perfect round structure created by the ancient meteorite crater.

Location: Manicouagan

Location: Caniapiscau Regional County Municipality

Elevation above the sea: 346 m

GPS coordinates: 51.12722,-68.74722

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:49