Quebec’s terrain—sometimes rugged, sometimes completely flat—is perfect for hiding beautiful waterfalls, small cliffs, and trails that wind up and down beneath the canopy of the region’s towering, thousand-year-old trees.
To enjoy the scent of fresh water and spruce sap, and to give your thigh muscles a good workout this summer, we recommend spending a day (with a sandwich break, of course) at the beautiful Chutes-Monte-à-Peine-et-des-Dalles Regional Park.
Don’t forget, when you go for a walk in the woods, to spray yourself very generously with eco-friendly, Canadian-made insect repellent—to ward off mosquitoes, black flies, and nasty ticks.
Chutes-Monte-à-Peine-et-des-Dalles Regional Park—zip line, forest hikes, fishing, and the shade of tall trees
The regional park, just one hour and twenty minutes from downtown Montreal, features 23 km of trails, 3 bridges, 3 stunning waterfalls to explore, and six lookout points where you can breathe in the forest air to your heart’s content. It’s scientifically proven: it’s therapeutic.
You can even bring your dog (on a leash) to let him enjoy the fresh air and the scenery. There are picnic tables and areas where you can have a barbecue—but be careful: with the drought affecting Canada and the many wildfires this summer, we recommend a good sandwich and a Capri Sun instead.
You can also float down the river on large inflatable tubes (under supervision), glide over the trees on a giant 700-meter zip line, and go birdwatching. Head out early from Montreal with a cap, a sandwich, and a camera, and you can spend the day with your feet on the trails and your head comfortably among the trees.
Practical Information
Where? TheChutes Monte-à-Peine-et-des-Dalles Regional Parkis accessible by car from three municipalities, each offering a distinct experience and services:
- Entrance at Sainte-Mélanie, 60 Champs Vallon J0K 3A0: This locationhas the largest number of parking spaces, making it ideal for school groups, families, or organized groups. There’s also a visitor center equipped with tables, a fireplace, and even a microwave—perfect for visitors who want to gather or take a break before or after their hike.
- Entrance at Saint-Jean-de-Matha, 440 Sainte-Louise West, J0K 2S0: easily recognizable, this entrance stands out thanks to thelarge waterfalls just a few steps from the parking lot. It’s the perfect spot for a spectacular first glimpse of the park as soon as you arrive.
- Sainte-Béatrix entrance, at 561 Rang des Dalles, J0K 1Y0: This entrance is the preferred starting point for summer adventure seekers, as this is where you can buy tickets for the river tubing ride. It also provides access to several trails offering beautiful panoramic views of the river.
When? Open every day of the year, from sunrise to sunset
How? parcdeschutes.com
Adult / $10
Children ages 6–15 / $6
Dogs / $6
Tubes, for ages 6 and up / $12
Adult zip line / $29.57
Kids’ Zip Line / $27.83
