They are heavily eroded, with flat tops and steep sides. Over 25 mountains have peaks higher than 1 km; the highest is Mont Jacques-Cartier at 1,268 metres. Caribou can be found in the plateaus of this region. Although visited by just a few tourists, Chic-Choc Mountains became much more popular in the late 90's as backcountry skiing gained popularity in Eastern Canada.
A network of trails, including the International Appalachian Trail, passes through these mountains. Quebec's "Parc de la Gaspésie" is located in this area.
The name "Chic-Choc" comes from a Mi'kmaq word meaning "impenetrable barrier".