
Parc des Chutes Rivière-du-Loup
A stunning waterfall and extensive woodland trails right in the heart of Rivière-du-Loup, offering natural beauty and adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Vibrant foliage

Parc des Chutes Rivière-du-Loup
Best Time
Vibrant foliage
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning waterfall and extensive woodland trails right in the heart of Rivière-du-Loup, offering natural beauty and adventure.
"A beautiful waterfall situated right at the centre of the city. A great spot to spend some time in nature and tranquility."

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Over 9 km of trails await! Opt for sturdy footwear to fully explore the park's diverse landscapes .
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The waterfall and surrounding nature offer incredible photo opportunities, especially in autumn .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Waterfall
Main viewpoint
A breathtaking cascade plunging into the river, offering stunning views from multiple vantage points .

Suspension Bridge Views
Upper viewpoint
Walk across a 33-meter high suspension bridge for an exhilarating, elevated perspective of the falls .

Heritage Orchard Trails
Throughout the park
Wander through over 9 km of trails, including a charming heritage orchard, perfect for a peaceful stroll .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Explore Beyond the Main View
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Over 9 km of trails await! Opt for sturdy footwear to fully explore the park's diverse landscapes.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The waterfall and surrounding nature offer incredible photo opportunities, especially in autumn.
🍎 Taste the Orchard
If visiting in season, check out the heritage orchard for fresh apples – a delightful local treat.
✨ Free Admission!
Enjoy the natural beauty without an entry fee. It's a fantastic budget-friendly destination.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Over 9 km of trails await! Opt for sturdy footwear to fully explore the park's diverse landscapes.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera! The waterfall and surrounding nature offer incredible photo opportunities, especially in autumn.
🍎 Taste the Orchard
If visiting in season, check out the heritage orchard for fresh apples – a delightful local treat.
✨ Free Admission!
Enjoy the natural beauty without an entry fee. It's a fantastic budget-friendly destination.
🌉 Cross the Bridge
Don't miss the chance to walk across the suspension bridge for a unique perspective of the falls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Parc des Chutes Rivière-du-Loup for its stunning waterfall and extensive trail network, all accessible within the city. While some find certain viewpoints obstructed by trees, the overall experience is described as tranquil and beautiful, with the suspension bridge offering a unique thrill. It's a highly recommended natural escape.
"A beautiful waterfall situated right at the centre of the city. There is a trail with multiple view points. The view points along the trail did have views obstructed by trees. One could get a closer view of the falls from the park that is on the lower ground. This park is a great spot to spend some time in nature and tranquility."
NITIN TOM
"I first had the pleasure of visiting this location in April of 2016. It was an awe-inspiring and majestic sight. I returned on the 25th of July and have attached some photographs from both visits for your comparison. While I thoroughly enjoyed both experiences, I must admit that my initial visit eight years ago holds a special place in my heart."
Grace Cybulak
"Over ten kilometres of woodland trails along the river and through a heritage orchard, all just steps from downtown. There's a 33-metre waterfall and old power generating station, still in operation, a visit is definitely a must. There's a parking lot close by, and you can get across the river using a bridge."
Mat Bienczyk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is conveniently located in the heart of Rivière-du-Loup, just steps from downtown. It's easily accessible by car, with a parking lot nearby. For those coming from further afield, it's about a three-hour drive from Montreal.
Yes, there is a parking lot close to the park entrance, making it easy to access for visitors arriving by car.
While specific public transport routes directly to the park entrance might be limited, Rivière-du-Loup has a bus station. From there, a short taxi or local bus ride could get you close to the park.
Some main paths are likely accessible, but the extensive trail network may include uneven terrain. It's advisable to check with park management for specific accessibility details.
The most common and convenient way to reach Parc des Chutes Rivière-du-Loup from Montreal is by car, which takes approximately three hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the park offers free admission, making it an accessible and budget-friendly natural attraction for everyone.
The park is generally open year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty in every season. Specific hours might vary, so it's always a good idea to check the official website or local tourism information.
Yes, the park is open in winter, and it can offer a unique, serene experience with snow-covered landscapes. Some trails might be less accessible depending on snow conditions.
Since admission is free, no advance booking is required to enter Parc des Chutes Rivière-du-Loup.
Yes, the park sometimes hosts events, such as the Hyundai Rivière-du-Loup shows, offering entertainment alongside the natural scenery.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park's main draw is its stunning waterfall, complemented by over 9 km of hiking trails, a heritage orchard, and a 33-meter high suspension bridge offering panoramic views.
To fully appreciate the trails and viewpoints, plan for at least 1-2 hours. Some routes, like the red route, can take up to 95 minutes.
Yes, the park provides picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature.
The park offers a variety of woodland trails, including the green route (approx. 50 minutes) and the red route (approx. 95 minutes), catering to different fitness levels.
While the natural beauty and trails are engaging, there's also a rope course that both kids and adults can enjoy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within the park itself. However, Rivière-du-Loup's downtown area, just steps away, offers various dining options.
Absolutely! The park has designated picnic areas, and bringing your own food is a great way to enjoy a meal amidst the natural scenery.
For a pleasant dining experience after your park visit, consider places like @leloftrdl, known for its Mac n' Cheese and terrace dining.
Typically, natural parks like this focus on preserving the environment, so dedicated snack bars are uncommon. It's best to bring your own snacks or plan to eat in town.
Rivière-du-Loup offers a range of culinary experiences, from casual cafes to restaurants featuring local Quebecois cuisine and international flavors.
📸 📸 Photography
The main waterfall viewpoint, the suspension bridge, and the scenic trails offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Autumn foliage provides particularly stunning backdrops.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more atmospheric look.
Drone usage in natural parks is often restricted to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone.
The suspension bridge offers a unique elevated perspective, allowing for dramatic shots looking down at the waterfall and across the river valley.
While not explicitly detailed, higher vantage points within the park could offer beautiful sunset views. One Reddit user mentioned it's the '2nd best in the world' for sunset, though this might be hyperbole.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as dedicated food services within the park are limited. The picnic areas are perfect for a family lunch amidst nature. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for everyone to safely explore the trails and enjoy the park's natural wonders.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
For those who appreciate scenic beauty, the park delivers with its impressive waterfall and the unique perspective from the suspension bridge. The heritage orchard adds another layer of interest, blending natural landscapes with a touch of agricultural history. Be prepared for varied terrain and bring water, especially during warmer months.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different times of day to capture the best light; early mornings and late afternoons often yield softer, more atmospheric images. While some trail views might be partially obscured by trees, the main viewpoints and the bridge provide ample opportunities for breathtaking photography. Don't forget to capture the details of the heritage orchard as well.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
These trails wind through lush forests and along the river, providing numerous opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Some sections may offer views obstructed by trees, as noted by visitors, but the overall experience is one of tranquility and immersion in nature. Remember to wear comfortable hiking shoes, as some paths can be uneven.
Beyond the standard hiking paths, the park also features a heritage orchard, adding a unique historical and agricultural element to your exploration. This blend of natural landscapes and cultivated areas makes the trail system particularly engaging and varied.
The Iconic Waterfall and Bridge
Walking across this bridge offers an exhilarating experience and a unique vantage point, looking down at the powerful flow of water and the surrounding landscape. It's a prime spot for photography, capturing the dramatic scale of the waterfall and the vastness of the river valley. The presence of an old power generating station, still in operation, adds a touch of industrial history to the natural spectacle.
While the main viewpoints are easily accessible, some visitors have noted that certain views along the trails can be partially obstructed by trees. However, the overall impression remains one of awe and natural beauty, making the waterfall and its accompanying bridge a must-see attraction.
Seasonal Beauty and Events
Even in winter, the park offers a serene, snow-dusted landscape, providing a peaceful escape. While some trails might be less accessible due to snow, the frozen cascades can present a unique and beautiful sight. The park's accessibility year-round means you can plan a visit whenever it suits you.
Beyond its natural splendor, the park occasionally hosts events, such as the Hyundai Rivière-du-Loup shows, which add a cultural dimension to the visitor experience. These events can range from musical performances to festivals, offering entertainment alongside the stunning natural backdrop.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit