Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
5.3 km
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
127 m
About Chute à l'Outarde
Chute à l'Outarde is a natural waterfall feature near Sept-Îles, Quebec (approx. 7.0 miles from the town center). The site is a local scenic cascade set in boreal forest/Canadian Shield terrain. Specific published details (official trailhead, formal viewing infrastructure, and exact measured height) are limited in widely available sources; visitors should expect a modest to medium-sized waterfall typical of the region and verify local access before visiting.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Chute à l'Outarde flows over hard intrusive rock, primarily anorthosite, laid down about 539 million to 1.0 billion years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating the falls where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 5.3-km loop trail gains 127 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Official trail descriptions are not widely published. Expect a short, potentially unmaintained approach from a roadside area or minor access path through boreal forest. Trails may be rock- and root-covered, uneven, and can be slippery when wet or icy. There may be informal viewpoints or basic paths worn by visitors rather than constructed boardwalks or viewing platforms.
What to Expect
Wooded boreal landscape with exposed rock and typical Canadian Shield features. The waterfall likely has a rocky plunge or cascade with pools or a stream below. Seasonal flow varies: higher in spring (snowmelt) and after heavy rain, lower in late summer. Limited or no facilities, limited signage, and potentially poor cell coverage. Wildlife in the area may include birds, small mammals, and occasionally larger mammals common to the region.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Chute à l'Outarde?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Chute à l'Outarde?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring for higher flows from snowmelt; early fall for fall color and cooler temperatures. Summer offers easier access and more stable conditions. Winter may present attractive frozen scenery but can be hazardous (ice, deep snow, and limited access) and typically requires specialized winter gear and local knowledge.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Expect slippery, uneven terrain and possibly steep or unstable banks near the water. Cold water temperatures, hidden rocks, submerged logs, and strong currents can create hazards. Cell coverage may be limited, tell someone your plans, carry a map or GPS, and check weather before you go. In winter, ice and snow increase objective hazards and may make the site inaccessible without specialized equipment.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Sept-Îles hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The waterfall is located near coordinates 50.2956, -66.4394 and is approximately 7 miles (11 km) from Sept-Îles. Access typically requires driving on local/regional roads from Sept-Îles; exact turnoffs and access roads may be unmarked. Use the provided coordinates in a GPS device or mapping app for the most direct route. Expect limited signage and variable road surfaces outside the town.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There may be limited or informal roadside parking or a small pullout near the access point. Do not assume a formal parking lot, restroom facilities, or maintained trailhead, plan for minimal facilities and possible parking constraints.
Elevation
86 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.295590° N, -66.439361° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Use the coordinates and a reliable map/GPS. • Wear sturdy, slip-resistant footwear, rocks and roots can be slippery. • Bring insect repellent in summer and warm layers in shoulder seasons. • Assume no toilets or trash service, pack out what you bring in. • Be cautious near edges and wet rocks; keep children and pets under control. • Check local resources (municipal or provincial park pages) or recent visitor reports for current access conditions before you go.
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This easy 5.3 km hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Camping ZEC Matimek
13.3 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Sept-Îles (town) and nearby coastal viewpoints along the Gulf of St. Lawrence; local parks and wilderness recreation opportunities in the broader Côte-Nord region. Check local visitor information in Sept-Îles for other nearby trails and attractions.
Wildlife
Typical boreal species may be present: songbirds, waterfowl, small mammals, and possibly moose or black bear. Practice standard wildlife safety and store food securely.
Cities near Chute à l'Outarde
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