Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.9 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
30 m
About Chute du 9eme portage
Chute du 9e portage is a forested, riverine cascade located near the coordinates 46.8858, -72.3009 in the general Shawinigan / Trois-Rivières region of Quebec. The name suggests a location along a historic canoe portage route (the “9th portage”), so access may be via a short trail or by water (canoe/kayak). Seasonal flow varies, with highest water in spring snowmelt and lower flows in late summer. Exact height and developed facilities appear to be undocumented in widely available sources.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Chute du 9eme portage flows over hard crystalline rock, primarily gneiss, laid down over 1.0-1.6 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 1.9-km out-and-back trail gains 30 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Detailed trail information is not widely published. The site name suggests it is associated with a canoe portage sequence, so access may be via a short unmarked footpath from a river access point or by paddling. Expect uneven, natural terrain with roots, rocks, and potentially wet/muddy sections. Trails (if present) may be minor and not signed.
What to Expect
You can expect a natural, typically unmanned waterfall in a mixed boreal/deciduous forest setting. Surroundings are likely rocky with tree cover and limited infrastructure (no developed viewing platforms or restrooms). Water levels change seasonally, spring runoff produces the most dramatic flows; late summer can be lower. Wildlife and insects (including black flies and mosquitoes in warm months, and ticks) are common. Mobile phone reception may be intermittent in remote spots.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Chute du 9eme portage?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Chute du 9eme portage?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (late March–May) for highest flows and dramatic water; early summer for full foliage and milder weather; fall for colors and lower crowds. Winter offers frozen cascades but requires winter-specific gear and experience (snowshoes, ice hazards) and may be unsafe without experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Exercise caution around wet and icy rocks, falls are a common hazard. River currents near waterfalls can be deceptively strong; avoid entering the water close to the falls. Mobile reception may be unreliable; tell someone your plans and expected return time. In winter, ice and avalanche/ice-fall hazards may exist, specialized skills and equipment are required. Check weather forecasts and local advisories before visiting.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Shawinigan-Sud 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 sits in a forested river corridor near the provided coordinates (46.8858, -72.3009). Approaches likely include a short hike from nearby forestry/secondary roads or boat access along the river. Exact trailheads and turn-by-turn directions are not documented here; confirm access with local municipal resources (Shawinigan or regional park/forest offices) or a detailed map/GPS before attempting to visit.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No confirmed formal parking lot is documented. There may be limited roadside or informal parking near logging/forest access roads; check signage and local regulations. If accessing by water, launch at an established put-in point.
Elevation
141 metres above sea level
Coordinates
46.885817° N, -72.300944° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Confirm access and parking with local authorities or a recent trip report before visiting. • Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear; rocks near waterfalls are often slippery. • Be prepared for limited or no signage, bring a GPS with the coordinates. • If approaching by canoe/kayak, wear a properly fitted life jacket and be aware of currents and river hazards. • Avoid cliff edges and wet boulders; supervise children closely. • Leave no trace: pack out all trash and avoid damaging vegetation. • Check for private property boundaries; obtain permission if crossing private land.
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This easy 1.9 km hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
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
Domaine Naturiste Le Cyprès
5.1 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby regional attractions include the city of Shawinigan, Trois-Rivières, and regional parks and waterways of the Mauricie/Shawinigan area. La Mauricie National Park and local rivers are notable nearby outdoor destinations, but confirm exact proximity depending on the route you take.
Wildlife
Typical regional wildlife may include white-tailed deer, beaver, muskrat, a variety of waterfowl and songbirds, and potentially moose in more remote pockets. Be aware of insects (black flies, mosquitoes) in warm months and ticks year-round in vegetated areas.
Cities near Chute du 9eme portage
Nearby Waterfalls
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