Montmorency Falls

About Montmorency Falls

Montmorency Falls is a powerful waterfall where the Montmorency River drops over a cliff into the St. Lawrence, just east of Quebec City. It is taller than Niagara Falls, though far narrower, and the plunge is visible from the highway and from Île d'Orléans across the water. A provincial park, Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, surrounds the falls with viewpoints, paths and historic buildings.

A suspension bridge spans the crest, giving a dizzying view straight down the cascade. Long staircases descend the cliff face beside the spray, linking a series of viewpoints, while a cable car offers an easier ride between the base and the top. The Manoir Montmorency, rebuilt after a fire, houses a restaurant and interpretive space. In winter, frozen spray builds a large ice cone at the foot of the falls, a sight that draws people even on cold days.

The falls fit easily into a day along the Côte-de-Beaupré. Farther east lie Canyon Sainte-Anne, the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, the wetlands of Cap Tourmente and the ski slopes of Mont Sainte-Anne. Île d'Orléans, with its farms and orchards, is reached by a nearby bridge, and Old Quebec is a short drive back. The site suits almost anyone, from families to photographers.