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Montmorency Falls: A Traveller’s Guide to Quebec’s Breathtaking Waterfall

It’s no secret that Quebec is a gorgeous place, but did you know that you can explore more than Old Quebec without travelling far?

Montmorency Falls is one of our favourite places to visit in the city because you can do many things with just a quick side trip. You can hike, walk the suspension bridge, ride a cable car, and witness the impressive and highest waterfall in the province!

No matter what the season, Montmorency Falls is worth visiting. Check out our guide that has everything you need to know, including activities and places to stay!

Where is Montmorency Falls?

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Montmorency Falls is tucked away in Montmorency Falls Park in Quebec, right on the boundary of Beauport and Boischatel. It’s located northeast of Old Quebec.

What is Montmorency Falls?

Montmorency Falls is a 272.3 ft high picturesque waterfall in Quebec City, which is actually 98.4 ft taller than Niagara Falls. Its water comes from the Montmorency River, which flows into the St. Lawrence River.

How to Get to Montmorency Falls

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Closest bus stop: Taking the bus is the cheapest and most convenient way to get to Montmorency Falls. Ride the bus route #800 bound for Beauport and alight at Montmorency stop (the last stop), which takes about 40 to 45 minutes.

From there, walk across the bridge to reach Montmorency Falls Park. It’ll take about 5 to 8 minutes to reach the entrance.

Bus #800 has several stops, which you can find here.

By car or taxi: From Old Quebec City, you can hail a cab or drive. The taxi is a pricier option than the bus, but it’ll get you there in approximately 15 minutes.

If you don’t have a vehicle, you can rent one in the city and park in the designated areas near the falls.

By bike: Take Corridor du Littoral, a bike path that’ll bring you to the entrance of Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency). There are also bike racks in the area, but do bring your own padlock—don’t use flimsy ones, just to be safe!

You can also check out family-friendly guided bike tours to get there, like Cylo Services, which also offers e-bikes.

By tour: Unitours offers a city and countryside tour that will take you to popular attractions in Old Quebec, which includes Montmorency Falls. We suggest this if you don’t like DIY-ing your vacation.

Best Time to Visit

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The best time to visit Montmorency Falls is basically any season. Summer (June to August) if you want warmer temperatures or winter (from December to February) to see frozen waterfalls.

We do have to say it’s particularly magical in the autumn season (mid-September to October) because of the fall foliage, which makes the place vibrant and even more alive—also a perfect opportunity for photos and videos!

Tourists flock to the area in the summer, while winter usually has fewer tourists. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning.

What to See and Do at Montmorency Falls

Walk to the suspension bridge

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Once you reach Montmorency Falls, you can walk up to La Baronne observation tower to admire the view. From here, take it up a notch by hiking up to cross the suspension bridge!

But this isn’t for individuals with a fear of heights! The suspension bridge is actually higher than the falls—it’s right on top—but it does give you an awesome view of the water plummeting down into the river.

Raise the bar by taking 487 steps to the panoramic staircase, which is latched to the cliff—you can continue walking from the suspension bridge to reach this.

Once you reach the top, you’ll have a panoramic view of Montmorency Falls, St. Lawrence River, and Quebec City from the distance. The breeze feels amazing here—it’s like a prize after all the walking!

Ride the cable car

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Roundtrip Ticket:

  • Adult: $14.95
  • Senior (65+): $13.46
  • Child 6 – 7: $7.48
  • Child under 5: $0

The cable car is one way to see the whole area of Montmorency Falls and go to the top without taking the staircase! This is also a good option for persons with mobility issues who want to access the garden.

Aside from the views of the falls, you’ll also see Île d’Orléans, St. Lawrence River, and Quebec City. If you want to ride the cable car, make sure you visit when it’s open!

Zipline across the river

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Price:

  • Adult: $31
  • Child 17 and under: $23.25

Adrenaline junkies rejoice! Fly high and feel the breeze in your skin as you zipline across the river right beside Montmorency Falls!

The zipline is 300 m long and takes 30 seconds (it’s longer with preparations). You’ll land at the observation deck and you can do this on your own or with a friend!

This is only available from May to October, so plan your visit if this is an activity you want to do.

Climb the mountain

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Daredevils will like Via Ferrata, a cliffside activity that will have you clinging to your life! There’s a continuous cable that you’ll hold on to as you navigate the circuits right on the cliffs.

Note that as of this writing, the Via Ferrata is closed indefinitely.

Take photographs

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Montmorency Falls is a photographer’s paradise! In every corner, you’ll find a spot that’ll give you the best shot.

But if you want the best locations, go to La Baronne observation deck, the suspension bridge, and at the top of the panoramic staircase.

Another option that doesn’t require too much walking is the Contemplative Footbridge, located at the bottom, for panoramic views. Le Manoir is also a good spot if you want to capture something else other than the falls.

Where to Eat near Montmorency Falls

Restaurant-Terrasse Du Manoir

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Location: 2490 Ave Royale, Québec City
Contact: +1 (418) 663-3330
Operating Hours:

  • May – June
    • Saturday, Sunday & public holidays: 12 pm – 3:30 pm
  • June – October
    • Monday – Sunday: 12 pm – 3:30 pm

Exact dates will vary

Website

Restaurant-Terrasse Du Manoir is located in Le Manoir. It’s the easiest place you can go to if you get hungry since it’s right there at the park.

Even though there aren’t a lot of choices on the menu, there’s a decent variety, like the classic poutine, fish and chips, vegan hamburger, and tuna salad. Do expect higher prices than usual, though.

However, the restaurant isn’t open all seasons, as it’s only open from May to October. It’s best to eat before going to Montmorency Falls so you won’t go hungry immediately.

Café Boutique La Maison Smith

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Location: 8700 Chem. Royal, Sainte-Pétronille
Contact: 418-828-0598
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8 am – 5 pm
Website

There really aren’t a lot of dining options that are super close to the falls, except the ones at the Manoir (which are pretty pricey, by the way). But we do have nearby recommendations that’ll give you a local experience.

La Maison Smith, located in Île d’Orléans, is an 8-minute drive away from Montmorency Falls. It’s a small cafe, but honestly, one of the nicest and cosiest places we’ve been to.

This is a must-visit for coffee breaks—grab a pistachio latte and pair it with an almond croissant! If you need something heavier, there are all sorts of sandwiches—the breakfast bagel is a classic!

Le Moulin de Saint Laurent Restaurant

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Location: 6436 Chem. Royal, Saint-Laurent-de-l’Île-d’Orléans
Contact: 418-829-3888, 1-888-629-3888
Operating Hours:

  • By reservation: 12 pm – 9 pm
  • Closed on Monday and Friday nights & Saturday and Sunday lunch

Website

Drive a little further to the edge of Île d’Orléans to visit Le Moulin de Saint Laurent for fine dining in a historic building dating back to the French regime! It also has one of the most beautiful and cosiest patios we’ve been to, which feels so Quebec!

It offers regional cuisine, and the menu actually has lots of options. The food is fresh and the plating is exquisite! Check out table d’hôte for a complete meal—you get an appetizer, main course, dessert, and beverage.

However, this is open on a seasonal basis. If you’re visiting Montmorency Falls or swinging by Quebec, try these months: May, June, September, and October.

Chocolaterie de l’Ile d’Orleans

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Location: 8330 Chem. Royal, Sainte-Pétronille
Contact: 1-800-363-2252 ext. 1
Operating Hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 9 am – 4 pm
  • Saturday – Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm

Website

We just had to include Chocolaterie de l’Ile d’Orleans, one of our favourite spots to indulge in our sweetest addiction—chocolates!

This cosy shop feels like it came straight from a small town movie, with its charming interior, unique selections, and deliciously sweet treats!

Look for chocolate bites shaped like animals or chocolate bark as souvenirs! We also recommend trying their popular ice cream!

Where to Stay near Montmorency Falls

Auberge Le Saint-Pierre

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Location: 79 Rue Saint-Pierre, Québec
Contact: 418-694-7981, [email protected]
Check-in & Check-out: 4 pm & 11 am
Pricing: $$
Website

What makes Auberge Le Saint-Pierre convenient is its location—it’s right in the middle of Old Quebec, which makes you closer to all attractions and shopping destinations. You’re also within walking distance of Petit-Champlain and the Funicular.

The hotel also has everything you need, like the breakfast spot and cosy nooks for reading. One of our favourite amenities is the bike rentals, which guests can use free of charge—this will come in handy because Old Quebec has a network of bike paths.

The rooms are charming, even the smallest ones. You get a Keurig for your coffee or tea, complimentary WiFi, bathrobes, and quality hōst bath products (a Quebec brand).

Au Petit Roi

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Location: 445 Rue Burton, Québec
Contact: +1-418-523-3105, [email protected]
Check-in & Check-out: 2 pm & 11 am
Pricing: $
Website

Au Petit Roi is situated between Upper Town and Lower Town, making it an accessible place to stay in Quebec. And since it’s not smack in the middle of Old Quebec, it’s fairly priced.

It’s small, but it’s not far from famous attractions if you don’t mind walking—it’s a 15-minute stroll to the Plains of Abraham and 20 minutes to Le Château Frontenac.

We particularly enjoyed the cosy rooms. You should know that you get a shared bathroom, except for the suites, but you do get the basic amenities.

Hôtel Le Priori

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Location: 15 Rue du Sault-au-Matelot, Québec
Contact: 418-692-3992, [email protected]
Check-in & Check-out: 4 pm & 12 pm
Pricing: $$
Website

If you’re looking for a hotel that’s close to everything in Old Quebec, Hôtel Le Priori is worth looking into. This charming hotel has managed to perfectly integrate modernity into its 18th-century building.

It’s more of a no-frills hotel since there aren’t really a lot of amenities included—all rooms do get free breakfast! They try to accommodate as much as they can, like external laundry and use of the neighbouring hotel’s gym for free.

What to Do near Montmorency Falls

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Montmorency Falls is a quick drive to Old Quebec, which is the main place you want to visit. It has all the attractions, like the Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral, The Citadelle, and all the historic streets!

If you need recommendations, we’ve got a guide for activities to do in Quebec in the summer and winter!

What You Should Know Before Visiting Montmorency Falls

Ticketing Information

Tickets are required to enter Montmorency Falls. Rates depend on the season and Quebec province residents have special prices.

Montmorency Falls Entrance Ticket Prices
CategoryResident of the Province of QuebecNon-residents/Regular
Adult (18 and over)$4.39 – $5.85$8.78 – $11.70
Children (up to 17 years old)$0$0
Seniors (65+)$3.95 – $5.27$7.90 – $10.54

Don’t forget to bring your ID to get the Quebec resident prices. It’s also recommended you purchase online for a smooth flow at the entrance, especially during peak seasons.

If you want to go on the cable car, you need to purchase a separate ticket. Here are the prices:

Montmorency Falls Cable Car – Round Trip Prices
CategoryRates
Adult$14.95
Children (under 5)$0
Children (6 – 17)$7.48
Senior (65+)$13.46
Family (1 adult + 2 children under 17)$28.70
Family (2 adults + 2 children under 17)$43.06

Operating Hours

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Montmorency Falls Park is open year-round. You can visit the falls in the winter, too, but only the lower part.

Some areas aren’t accessible during winter for safety reasons, like the Panoramic Staircase and the Waterfall Boardwalk.

Attractions will have separate operating hours, and not all are open during the chilly weather. To see the full schedule and possible changes, click here.

Accessibility Information

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Not all areas of Montmorency Falls have accessible options. The staircase doesn’t have lifts, so your best option is to take the cable car, which will bring you to the garden.

Once you get to the Manoir, you’ll find facilities for persons with reduced mobility. If you have a service dog, you can bring them everywhere at Montmorency Falls Park.

Amenities

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The Visitor Centre has all the amenities, including washrooms and facilities for reduced mobility. It’s a good idea to go to the toilet before going up the staircase.

Once you reach the top of the falls, don’t worry! The Manoir has washrooms and WiFi available.

Check out this site map so you know exactly where to find what you need.

How to Prepare for a Visit to Montmorency Falls

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Montmorency Falls is a day trip, especially if you plan on walking up the staircase. Once you get near the falls, especially at the base, expect to get wet.

Check out these tips that made our visit smoother:

  • Wear appropriate clothing—comfortable and light clothing in the summer and bundle up for the winter!
  • Wear shoes with traction because you might slip when you reach the wet areas.
  • Bring a change of clothes because you’ll get wet from the falls, get sweaty, or both!
  • Protect your skin and eyes. Wear sunscreen and bring a hat and sunglasses.
  • Bring a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated. Walking up the stairs to reach the top can be tiring.
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