Montmorency Falls: Is It Worth Visiting and What to Expect?
Montmorency Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Quebec – it’s even taller than Niagara Falls. And as it’s just a short drive from Quebec City, it’s an easy and popular day trip for those looking to experience its powerful cascades and scenic trails. The falls are part of Montmorency Falls Park, which offers walking paths, a suspension bridge, a cable car, and even a zipline for a more adventurous view.
But is it really worth the visit?
While Montmorency Falls is undeniably beautiful, the experience depends on when you go and what you plan to do. Some activities, like hiking and ziplining, make it an exciting stop, while others—like the cable car in winter—might not be worth the price.
After visiting firsthand, here’s an honest look at when Montmorency Falls is worth the trip, when it’s not, and what’s actually worth doing once you get there.
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What to Expect at Montmorency Falls
Montmorency Falls is the tallest waterfall in Quebec at 83 metres—30 metres higher than Niagara Falls. Located just 15 minutes from Old Quebec, it’s an impressive sight, with water thundering over the cliffside into the St. Lawrence River below. Whether you see it from the suspension bridge, the panoramic staircase, or the base, the sheer power of the falls is something you’ll hear and feel as much as you see.
But since it’s one of the top things to do in Quebec City, it also gets busy—especially in summer. Expect crowds at the main viewpoints, long lines for the cable car, and limited parking at peak times. If you’re just stopping for a quick look, you can see the falls in 30–45 minutes, but to walk the trails or try the zipline, plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours.
I first visited Montmorency Falls (many) years ago as an exchange student in Trois-Pistoles, and I still remember being awed by its size and power. At the time, I don’t recall there being a suspension bridge or many activities—just the falls themselves, which were stunning enough on their own. Even after visiting multiple times since, Montmorency Falls still feels impressive, even growing up near Niagara Falls. The setting is completely different, but the sheer drop and rushing water are just as mesmerizing.
The falls are part of Montmorency Falls Park (Parc de la Chute-Montmorency), a well-maintained area managed by SEPAQ. The park has paved walkways, lookouts, and wooden staircases, making it accessible for most visitors—though some areas require climbing stairs.
The experience changes depending on the season, with some areas closed at certain times of year—but more on that below.
Best Time to Visit Montmorency Falls
You can visit Montmorency Falls year-round, and it’s an incredible sight in every season—but the experience varies depending on when you go. Some times of year are definitely better than others, especially if you want to avoid crowds or take advantage of the park’s activities, while others offer unique views of the falls.
Summer (June–September)
- The best season for outdoor activities—the zipline, staircase, and all trails are open.
- The falls are at full flow, and the mist from the suspension bridge is refreshing on a hot day.
- It’s the busiest time of year, with crowds at the main viewpoints and long lines for the cable car.
- Parking fills up quickly, so it’s best to go early or later in the day to avoid peak crowds.
Fall (Late September–October) – My favourite time to visit
- The fall colours are spectacular, making it one of the most scenic times to visit.
- The weather is cooler, which makes hiking and exploring the trails more enjoyable.
- Most activities, like the suspension bridge, staircase, and zipline, are still open.
- Fewer crowds than in summer, but weekends can still be busy, especially during peak foliage.
Winter (November–March)
- The falls partially freeze, and create the unique “Sugar Loaf” ice formation at the base.
- It’s much quieter than other seasons, but still attracts visitors.
- The panoramic staircase is closed, and some trails at the top are blocked off due to ice and mist buildup.
- If you’re into ice climbing, this is the only time of year to try it.
My thoughts on winter: We visited in winter, and while the frozen falls were cool to see, I didn’t think it was worth the full admission price compared to what’s available in other seasons. If winter is your only chance to visit, the falls are still beautiful—but if you’re also visiting in summer or fall, you’ll get a much better experience outside of winter.
Things to Do at Montmorency Falls
While the main attraction is the waterfall itself, there are plenty of other experiences to enjoy, from scenic walks to more adventurous activities.
Walk Across the Suspension Bridge
*Open year round
One of the most unique spots to see is from the suspension bridge, as it stretches directly over the falls. My kids love standing here and watching the water rush over the edge below.
It can get crowded, especially in the summer, but it’s still one of the best spots to view the power of the falls. The bridge has a bit of natural movement, which isn’t a bad thing but can feel a little strange at first—especially if you’re not expecting it!
Climb the Panoramic Staircase
*Summer and fall only
This 487-step wooden staircase runs alongside the cliff, offering different perspectives of the falls as you climb. Platforms along the way make great photo stops, and while it’s a bit of a workout, the views from the top are worth it. The staircase is closed in winter due to ice, but in other seasons, it’s one of the best ways to experience the falls up close.
Take the Cable Car
*February to the beginning of November, and December 26- January 4, 2026
The cable car runs from the base of the falls to the top, and is a great way to get to the top if you want to avoid the stairs. You’ll also be treated to fantastic views of the falls on the way. It’s not included in the entrance fee though, and is a bit pricey for a short ride. It runs in the winter as well, but is not as scenic, as much of the landscape is covered in snow.
Try the Zipline
*Summer and fall only (mid-June to mid-October)
The 300-metre zipline crosses in front of the falls, giving you an adrenaline rush with an unbeatable view. It’s one of the most unique ways to experience Montmorency Falls, but it’s only available in summer and early fall.
Hike the Trails
*Spring–Fall, Some Trails Year-Round
Several walking trails lead through Montmorency Falls Park, offering quieter spots to enjoy the scenery. The Corridor du Littoral is a scenic bike and walking path that connects to Quebec City. Some paths close in winter due to ice, but a few, like the Nature Trail at the bottom and Resurgences Natural Trail at the top, remain open for those who don’t mind the cold.
See the Sugar Loaf Ice Formation
*Winter Only
In winter, the mist from the falls freezes into a huge mound of ice at the base. It’s an interesting sight if you’re visiting in the colder months, but not something you’d make a trip just to see.
How to Get to Montmorency Falls from Quebec City
Montmorency Falls is just 15 minutes from Old Quebec, making it an easy half day trip. Whether you prefer to drive, take public transit, or even bike, here’s how to get there:
By Car
Driving is the quickest and most affordable way to reach the falls, taking about 15 minutes from downtown Quebec City.
The entrance fee ($10.10 per adult) includes parking, and you can choose to park either at the top near Manoir Montmorency for easy access to the suspension bridge, or at the bottom if you want to climb the staircase or take the cable car.
We parked at the bottom in summer and climbed the steps to the top, but in winter, we parked at the top for easier access to the suspension bridge. The entrance fee covered both parking areas.
By Public Transit
If you don’t have your own car, you can reach Montmorency Falls by taking RTC Bus 800 from downtown Quebec City.
The ride takes about 45 minutes each way and costs $3.75 per ride, but you’ll still need to pay the entrance fee once you arrive.
The bus drops you off near the falls (Montmorency #3473), but keep in mind that service may be less frequent in the off-season.
By Bike
For a more active option, you can bike to Montmorency Falls via the Corridor du Littoral, a 12km scenic path that follows the St.Lawrence River from Old Quebec to Montmorency Falls.
The ride takes about 45 minutes one way and is mostly flat, and is a good option for active travellers. While this a great way to enjoy the scenery, families with young kids may find the ride a bit long, and it’s not necessarily the most budget-friendly option. Plus, you’ll still need some energy to climb the stairs and walk around the falls!
By Tour
Several companies offer guided tours from to Montmorency Falls from Quebec City, which can be a good option if you prefer an organized experience. While tours tend to be more expensive and less flexible that visiting independently, they include transportation and often interesting information and commentary, and are a good choice if you don’t want to deal with logistics of getting to Montmorency Falls.
For those short on time, this Half Day Quebec City and Montmorency Falls tour combines a visit to the falls with a guided tour of Quebec City’s highlights. If you have a bit more time to explore, ths Montmorency Falls & Saint-Anne-de-Beaupre Tour includes both the falls and a visit to the famous basilica, as well as a bit of a drive around Ile d’Orleans.
Practical Info: Tickets, Hours & Services
Entrance Fees
There is an admission fee to visit Montmorency Falls, which includes access to the suspension bridge, walking trails, and parking.
- Adults: $10.10
- Ages 17 & under: Free
- Annual SEPAQ pass holders: Free
Additional fees apply for activities like the cable car and zipline.
Cable Car Fees: $17.19 adult, $8.60 children ages 6-17, $15.47 seniors, $33 family with one adult, $49.51 with two adults.
Zipline & Via Ferrata Prices can be found online.
Opening Hours
Montmorency Falls Park is open year-round, but hours vary by season. The Info building and Cable Car do not operate in November, December and January (except for a week between Christmas and New Years), but the grounds are open.
February – March: 10 am – 4 pm
June 21 – Aug 17: 9 – 6:30
Aug 18 – October 13: 9 – 5:30
A full list of hours can be found here.
Facilities & Services
- Manoir Montmorency: Located at the top of the falls, this building has a restaurant, gift shop, and restrooms.
- Snack Bar: open during the peak summer months.
- Visitor Centre: Near the lower parking area, with information and additional facilities.
- Picnic Areas: Available in warmer months for those who want to bring their own food.
👉 Check the official Montmorency Falls website for up-to-date pricing and hours.
Final Thoughts
Montmorency Falls is an impressive sight and a worthwhile trip from Quebec City no matter the season. With its towering waterfall, scenic trails, and suspension bridge, it’s a great spot to experience Quebec’s natural beauty.
That said, we much prefer visiting in the summer and fall, when all the trails and activities are open, and the experience feels more complete. If you’re only visiting in the winter, the frozen falls are still worth seeing—but the limited access and full admission price make it a less exciting visit compared to other seasons.
Planning a trip? Here’s how to spend 3 Days in Quebec City in the winter, with the best things to do in Quebec City in the winter, plus tips for visiting the Aquarium du Quebec. And if you’re visiting during the warmer months, here’s the best things to do in Quebec City in the summer.
