Lea Gagnon9 best waterfalls near Montreal you need to see at least once!
For many of us outdoor enthusiasts, seeing a gorgeous waterfall is an exciting experience. Imagine the hike up to viewpoints and finally getting the reward of breathtaking views – the IG pics are just a bonus!
Having been to many destinations in my life, I can’t just sit here and keep the best waterfalls to myself. No, there are many spots near Montreal that you really – as in really! – have to see at least once in your life!
I’ve been to all of these spots and will continue to discover more, and if you want to see my recommendations, just take a look below.
1. Parc de la Chute-Montmorency
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Address: 5300 Bd Sainte-Anne, Québec
Contact details: +1 418-663-3330
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Distance from Montreal: 3 hours
Standing at a towering 83 meters, Montmorency Falls is actually 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls! Its height makes it an impressive sight from any angle, whether you take in the view from the observation deck at the base or brave the suspended bridge over the top.
For those looking to explore the area, there are several ways to get up close to the falls.
You can hike the 487-step panoramic staircase that offers great views along the way. It’s a great workout, but if you’re visiting with kids or just want to take it easy, the cable car is your best alternative.
In addition to the falls, the surrounding park area is perfect for a relaxing afternoon too. There are picnic spots and walking trails to end your day.
But if you’re up for more adventure, there’s a zip line that lets you soar right over the waterfall!
2. Parc national du Mont-Tremblant
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Address: 3824 Chemin du Lac Supérieur, Lac-Supérieur
Contact details: +1 819-688-2281
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Distance from Montreal: 2 hours and 15 minutes
One of the highlights at Parc national du Mont-Tremblant is Chute-du-Diable. That said, there are other waterfalls in the area you can check out!
The hike to this one is about 20 minutes. While there are a few steep sections, it’s easily manageable for most people with proper footwear.
Though Chute-du-Diable isn’t the tallest waterfall, it still offers an amazing experience because of the cool mist from the cascading water. After visiting the falls, you can even stop at one of the many nearby picnic spots, where you can enjoy a peaceful meal by the lake.
One thing to note is the abundance of wildlife in the park, so don’t be surprised if you spot deer roaming nearby! And if you’re planning to hike, remember to bring bug spray – there are quite a lot of insects there.
3. Waterfall of the St-Louis River
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Address: Chute de la Riviere St-Louis, Rue Mill, Beauharnois
Distance from Montreal: 45 minutes
Just a short drive off the island, this small yet scenic waterfall is a peaceful spot to unwind. Whether you want to relax by the water or explore the surrounding area, there are plenty of options.
The nearby Robert Woods offers 10 kilometers of marked trails spread over 125 acres, perfect for nature lovers who want to hike. Best of all, this hidden gem is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry companion along.
While you can’t get too close to the waterfall itself, you’ll find two great viewpoints that make the walk worthwhile.
Just be mindful of private property near one side of the falls. Instead, access it from a path near the Eco Centre.
4. Chute Ouiatchouan
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Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/muoPwkgUTZM3HVwR8
Address: Chute Ouiatchouan, Le Domaine-du-Roy
Distance from Montreal: 5 hours
Standing at an impressive 72 meters, Ouiatchouan Falls is taller than Niagara. It offers a breathtaking sight as it tumbles over a rocky cliff by an old pulp mill from 1901.
To fully enjoy the views, you can hike up the trail with wooden stairs leading to five scenic viewpoints. Alternatively, you can take the cable car, which also grants you access to the on-site museum inside the mill.
For those who love a bit of adventure, the hike offers some stunning views of the surrounding scenery, including the river flowing into Lac St-Jean. The trail is well-maintained and manageable for most people, even if the climb involves some stairs.
The reward at the top is worth the effort, especially if you’re brave enough to step onto the glass platform overlooking the waterfall!
5. Luskville Falls
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Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/u4CX4MRaoBQimisF8
Address: Luskville Falls Trail, Les Collines-de-l’Outaouais Regional County Municipality
Distance from Montreal: 3 hours
Unlike the roaring waterfalls you might expect, Luskville Falls offers a serene escape. The main draw here is the challenging yet rewarding hike up the Eardley Escarpment, which takes you 300 metres above sea level.
Going on the 4.2-kilometer Luskville Falls Trail is an adventure in itself. As you ascend the rocky slopes, you’ll pass two scenic lookouts that offer stunning views of the Ottawa Valley and rich clay plains: the Pontiac Lookout and the Lusk Lookout.
For the best experience, visit Luskville Falls in the spring, when the melting snow turns the waterfall into a powerful stream. Just be mindful that this is a fragile ecological area, so pets are not allowed on the trail.
6. Les Chutes de Roxton Falls
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Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZPGAYdFANiECm4LTA
Address: Chutes de Roxton Falls, Roxton Falls
Distance from Montreal: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Roxton Falls offers a charming, small-town experience that’s perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
Located in the heart of the village, this waterfall is part of the Black River. It splits into two branches that cascade over a 9-metre drop.
For those looking to stay active, there are several nearby cycling trails that give you a chance to explore the surrounding area. You can also take advantage of the park’s picnic areas and watch the water flow by as you eat in peace.
And if you love a bit of history, you’ll love this place. Originally a meeting spot for the Abenaki people, the falls later became the site of bustling tanneries in the 19th century.
Today, you can still see interpretation panels and restored equipment displayed near the falls.
7. Parc Regional des Sept-Chutes
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Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Tkb5Kxjazrj3P8LJ9
Address: 4031 chemin Brassard Sud, Saint-Zénon
Contact details: +1 450-884-0484
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Distance from Montreal: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Parc Régional des Sept-Chutes is an exciting destination for waterfall lovers and adventurers alike, offering not just one but seven waterfalls! The crown jewel here is the Veil of the Bride, a stunning 60-meter waterfall that most adventurers go to the park for.
If you’re up for a challenge, the hike to Mont Brassard is a must-try.
This trail is steep and rugged, with rocky terrain and roots. That said, there are ropes to help you navigate the more difficult sections.
Just be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and pack light because the trail is demanding!
If Mont Brassard isn’t your thing, you can try other less extensive trails. However, regardless of what you choose, it’s advised to trek to the falls with a more experienced companion.
8. Parc des Chutes Monte-à-Peine-et-des-Dalles
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Address: 561 Rang des Dalles, Sainte-Béatrix
Contact details: +1 450-883-6060
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Distance from Montreal: 2 hours
Located at the crossroads of Sainte-Béatrix, Saint-Jean-de-Matha, and Sainte-Mélanie, this park is home to three stunning falls. They are Chutes Monte-à-Peine, Chutes des Dalles, and Chutes des Desjardins.
Each waterfall offers a unique experience as you hike along the park’s trails.
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, Sainte-Béatrix is the go-to entrance. The canyon here allows you to feel the mist of the falls as they tumble into the gorge, which just elevates the hiking experience.
The park also has plenty of amenities to make your visit comfortable. Picnic areas with tables and benches are scattered throughout, allowing you to relax with your friends and family.
Pro tip: be sure to bring water, bug spray, and a good pair of walking shoes!
9. Parc régional des Chutes-à-Bull
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Address: 101 rue Théophile-Gauthier, Saint-Côme
Contact details: +1 450-883-2730
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Distance from Montreal: 2 hours and 5 minutes
Standing at 20 metres tall, the Chutes-à-Bull is the star of Parc régional des Chutes-à-Bull. The falls are perfect for a refreshing dip on hot summer days, which is why many adventurers come here!
Plus, the park’s hiking trails are easy to navigate, making it a great destination for both beginners and families. Picnic tables are scattered around the park as well, so there are spots to rest and enjoy a meal after your hike.
Although the hike is accessible year-round, early spring can bring some challenges, like slippery trails that may require spikes. However, that time of year also means fewer crowds, so you can enjoy the falls in peace.
