The most beautiful waterfalls in the Outaouais to visit in spring

Published on March 26 2024

The Outaouais is full of waterfalls and cascades whose beauty is at its impressive peak in the spring, as the snow melts. Some are well known, while others are secrets closely guarded by the most contemplative among us, who discover them by chance on a hike and return to witness their transformation over the seasons. Here are some waterfalls in the Outaouais to admire and be amazed by this spring! 

Luskville Falls

In the western sector of Gatineau Park, discover Luskville Falls in all its glory on the Eardley Escarpment. This rocky slope is home to an ecosystem thats unique in the region. Access is via the Luskville Falls Traila 4.2km loop (difficult level) with a steep 290-metre elevation gain. Along the trail, a fire tower and lookouts offer amazing views of the Ottawa Valley. 

Where

Entrance via the Luskville Falls parking lot in Luskville.

Cost

Free

Good to know

No dogs allowed.

Learn more

Coulonge Falls


Coulonge Falls is well worth a visit. You can contemplate the cataracts 48-metre drop during a picnic, on a hike, or while trying out the various aerial courses! Coulonge Falls Park is both a historical park with an interpretation centre about the log drive and an outdoor adventure park. Looking for a thrill? Cross the Coulonge River canyon on a giant zip line, or admire the rapids and falls from your lofty perch on the viaferrata. Museum, footbridges, lookoutstheres something for everyone! 

Where

100 Promenade du Parc-des-Chutes, Mansfield-et-Pontefract

When

Details to come!

Cost

Children (6 to 17 years old): $5.20 | Adults: $8.70 | Seniors: $5.20 | There are additional fees for the aerial park, the via ferrata, etc.

Good to know

The hiking trail (1.5 km) is accessible to all. | You can view the falls without visiting the aerial park.

Learn more

Denholm Falls


Four trails linked in a loop lead you to beautiful DenholmFalls in the Vallée-de-la-Gatineau. As you walk through the mature forest, youll discover permanent outdoor art, a marsh teeming with life, and some breathtaking views. Take time to observe the wilderness on this 5-km circuit offering different levels of difficulty. For a relaxing stroll, take the Sentier du Ruisseau (creek trail)The site is maintained by the PERO – Pôle dexcellence récréotouristique de lOutaouais. 

Where

830 Paugan Road, Denholm

Cost

Free

Good to know

Dogs on leash are allowed.

Learn more

Plaisance Falls


With its 63-metre drop, this natural waterfall in Petite Nation is recognized as the most impressive in the territory. It can be observed from the walking trail that leads from the head to the foot of the falls, and to the lookout and rest areas. This majestic historic and natural site is perfect for getting a breath of fresh air and enjoying the invigorating effect of the falls. 

Where

100 Malo Road, Plaisance

Cost

Details to come!

Good to know

The Plaisance Falls site is now part of Plaisance National Park. The site is undergoing maintenance, and the official reopening date is scheduled for the May long weekend. Stay tuned!

Learn more

Lauriault Falls (also called Bridal Veil Falls)

In Gatineau Park, follow the Lauriault and Waterfall trails to reach the famous waterfall. Its also known as Bridal Veil Falls, so named by former Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King, a great lover of its rushing waters. There are lookouts from which you can admire the valley and the OttawaRiver. At the end of LauriaultRoad, relax on the shore of MulvihillLake. 

Where

Access from the P6 parking lot of Mackenzie King Estate

Cost

Free

Good to know

The trail is 3 km long, and ranges from easy to intermediate. | Dogs on leash are allowed.

Learn more

Chaudière Falls


Between the Gatineau and Ottawa shores of the Ottawa River is a set of falls of incredible power. Closed to the public for more than a century, the Chaudière Falls site has now been developed for all to appreciate the majestic beauty of the river and discover its six hydroelectric generating facilities. In addition to enjoying a breathtaking view, youll learn more about clean energy and the rich history of this site. A must-see! 

Where

4 Booth Street, Ottawa

Cost

Free

Good to know

Accessible by bike, by bus and on foot.

Learn more

Rideau Falls

From the bank of the Ottawa River near the Canadian Museum of Historyfrom the riverside bike path or on a boat ride, you can see the iconic Rideau Falls on the southern shore, at the point where the Rideau River flows into the Ottawa. In the 19thcentury, the twin falls powered an industrial area, now transformed into a park. 

Where

100 Laurier Street, Gatineau

Cost

Free

Learn more

Already familiar with these seven falls? Then you might want to explore the falls at the Carbide-Willson RuinsQuinn Creek Falls, or MacLaren Falls outside the Wakefield Mill! With 10 destinations to choose from, you wont be bored. Pack a picnic and take advantage of the warm spring weather to sit by the falls and dream. In the summer, the flow of many of them diminishes greatly. 

Waterfalls and rivers are part of the Outaouais DNA; they have shaped the regions landscape and history. Plan vacation with an aquatic theme: follow the Chemins deau (waterways), our famous tourist route!

+  Discover other articles that might interest you:

OTHER ARTICLES THAT MIGHT INTEREST YOU
Share
Facebook Twitter Email