This waterfall just outside Québec is higher than Niagara Falls and a spectacular sight when it freezes over in winter.
Make the trip outside Québec to Montmorency Falls, a waterfall that’s even higher than Niagara Falls. Water plunges 83 metres (272 feet) into a massive pool on the St. Lawrence River. This makes it about 30 metres (100 feet) higher than Niagara Falls, although it’s not as wide. Montmorency Manor at the top of the falls has a restaurant, café and visitor centre with incredible views over the river and waterfall.
Stand on the suspension bridge that hangs over the falls for amazing photo opportunities above the roaring water. Buy a ticket for the cable car that runs from the bottom of the falls to the cliff top. Get a one-way pass and enjoy the views on the walk back down.
Stairs wind their way up the hill to the top of the cliff. Be careful making the climb in winter when the steps can be icy. Take a break at one of the many rest points along the way and admire the view.
Winters in Québec are cold and Montmorency Falls generally freeze over by early December. The wall of ice is no less of a spectacular sight than when the falls are running in summer. Even the spray freezes over, forming incredible natural ice sculptures. Some experienced climbers scale the frozen falls. If you’re a confident ice climber and want to have a go yourself, you can make a booking on the Parc de la Chute-Montmorency’s website.
The Parc de la Chute-Montmorency surrounds the falls. Go hiking and mountain bike riding along the many trails during the summer months.
The park is 13 kilometres (8 miles) from Québec City. Come by public bus or car. There is on-site parking for a fee. You can see the waterfalls and explore the park throughout the year for free.
