Chute des Pins rouges
Quebec • Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.7 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
240 m
About Chute des Pins rouges
Chute des Pins rouges (literally "Red Pine Falls") is a forested waterfall located northeast of Québec City (coordinates: 47.0855, -70.7857). The falls sit on a small stream through a mixed boreal/deciduous landscape and are noted locally for their scenic, wooded setting and nearby stands of red pine. Exact published information about the falls (official height, established facilities, and maintained trail) is limited; access is typically via local/forest roads and an unpaved trail or footpath.
The Setting
Chute des Pins rouges sits at 176 metres within Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area, in the foothills of Quebec.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Chute des Pins rouges flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 252-539 million years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating the step that forms the waterfall.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Chute Sainte-Anne (74 m) lies 7.1 kilometres to the west. Also nearby: Chute de la Friponne (25 m, 0.0 km) and Chute de la Migmatite (15 m, 0.0 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.7-km out-and-back trail gains 240 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Available public information about a formal maintained trail to Chute des Pins rouges is limited. The approach is typically a short forest footpath from a roadside pull-off or minor trailhead and may include uneven, rooty, or rocky sections. Near the falls the terrain can be steep and slippery; there may be informal viewpoints rather than constructed platforms. Trails in this region can be singletrack and not signed.
What to Expect
Expect a natural, wooded setting with a modest waterfall on a small stream. Seasonal flow varies: highest in spring runoff, lower in late summer (but still scenic), and partially or fully frozen in winter. No guaranteed visitor facilities (no restrooms, picnic tables, or staffed visitor centers). Cell service may be intermittent. Trails, roads, and conditions may be affected by weather, recent logging activity, or seasonal closures.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Chute des Pins rouges?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Chute des Pins rouges?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (snowmelt/high water) for the fullest flow; late spring and summer for easier hiking and greener surroundings; fall for foliage color. Winter provides ice-and-snow scenery but increases access difficulty and hazards.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery rocks and muddy trails, unstable banks and edges near the water, cold water and hidden currents, rapidly changing weather, limited cell service, and potential wildlife encounters (including black bears). In winter, ice and snow increase fall risk and can hide hazards; frozen water is not guaranteed safe to walk on. Always stay back from cliff edges and avoid scrambling on wet rock. Check recent trip reports or local authorities for road and trail conditions before visiting.
Know when to go.
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Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
From Québec City (approximately 33–35 miles / ~54 km northeast), follow the main regional roads toward the Charlevoix / Capitale-Nationale interior and then local/forest roads toward coordinates 47.0855, -70.7857. Expect secondary paved or gravel roads; GPS coordinates are recommended. Exact official trailhead signage and access points may be limited.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is likely limited to a small roadside pull-off or unpaved lot near the trail/forest road. There may be no designated lot, signage, or facilities. Park legally and avoid blocking gates or driveways.
Elevation
176 metres above sea level
Coordinates
47.085545° N, -70.785692° W
Land Management
Managed by Canadian Wildlife Service, Quebec Region
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Use the provided coordinates and a reliable map/GPS; local access points may be poorly signed. • Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes, approaches can be muddy, rooty, and slippery. • Watch footing on wet rocks near the falls; edges may be unstable. • Respect private property and posted closures; do not block gates. • Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace. • Check local park or municipal websites (or recent trip reports) for current access and road conditions before you go. • In winter, expect snow/ice; crampons and trekking poles may be needed.
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With 4.7 km and 240 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
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 de la Pointe
7.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The site is in the broader Québec/Charlevoix region which offers provincial and national parks, scenic drives, and other natural attractions. Exact nearby named attractions relative to these coordinates should be confirmed with regional maps.
Wildlife
Typical regional wildlife may include white-tailed deer, beaver, small mammals, a variety of songbirds, and the possibility of black bear. Be prepared for insects (black flies, mosquitoes) in warmer months and ticks in spring/summer.
Cities near Chute des Pins rouges
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