No matter the season, Montrealers love making the short trip to Quebec City. Some go for the cobblestone streets and European-style architecture, others for the food and festivals. But just outside the city centre sits one of the province’s most jaw-dropping natural wonders: Parc de la Chute-Montmorency.
Only a few minutes from Old Quebec, Montmorency Falls towers at a whopping 83 metres (272 feet) tall. For those counting, that’s about 30 metres taller than Niagara Falls, making the Fleuve Saint-Laurent spectacle the highest waterfall in Quebec. On a national scale, it also ranks as the eighth-tallest waterfall in all of Canada.
Here are a few reasons why it’s worth checking out for yourself.
Epic views in every direction
What makes Montmorency Falls special is how many different ways you can experience it. At the top, a suspension bridge stretches across the falls, giving you a stomach-dropping look straight over the edge. A gondola also glides along the cliffside for a smoother ride, while wooden staircases wind all the way down to the base, where you can feel the mist on your face.
But for those craving something a little more extreme, there is even a zipline that cuts right across the front of the falls. It may not be for everyone, but if you’re willing to try it, the view is pretty unforgettable.
A waterfall worth visiting year-round
Montmorency is one of those places that always looks different depending on the season. During fall, the cliffs light up with red and orange leaves, turning the whole area into a scene straight out of a postcard.
Meanwhile, winter brings out the famous “Sugarloaf,” a massive frozen mound at the base of the falls that ice climbers actually scale.
Spring is when the cascade is at its most powerful, fueled by snowmelt rushing down the cliffs. Summer, of course, is the most popular time to explore the trails, gondola, and bridges.
More than just scenery
The site also comes with a bit of history. The Battle of Montmorency took place here in 1759, during the Seven Years’ War between French and British forces. Today, it’s hard to imagine that kind of chaos in such a peaceful setting. Instead of cannon fire and bayonets, you’ll hear the roar of the falls and the chatter of tourists. But if you take time to walk around the park, you’ll spot plaques and signs explaining the site’s role in Quebec’s military history.
Other spots nearby
Montmorency Falls can fill up a good chunk of your day, but if you’re already in the area, you can easily add a side trip to Île d’Orléans. The island is just across the bridge and is known for its farms, cider houses, and strawberry stands. Many visitors end their day there by picking up fresh produce, popping into museums, or sampling local spirits before heading back to the city.
Plus, Quebec City, recently ranked the most beautiful city in Canada by Narcity readers, is right around the corner.
If you go
- Where: 15 minutes from Old Quebec, about 3 hours from Montreal by car
- Getting there: Parking is available on-site, and city buses connect to the park
- Cost: Access to outdoor areas is between $4 and $9 per person (gondola and zipline tickets cost extra)
- Best time: Each season has its charm, but fall colours and spring runoff are especially striking