Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
4.0 km
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
116 m
About Chute Martine
Chute Martine is a river waterfall in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, located near the towns of Dolbeau and Chicoutimi (coordinates 48.3809, -71.9659). The waterfall is set in a forested, rocky river corridor typical of the region and is most notable for seasonal changes in flow, high in spring melt and lower in late summer. Specific historical or visitor amenities at the site are not well documented in widely available sources; access and facilities may be minimal.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Chute Martine flows over hard crystalline rock laid down over 1.4-1.8 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.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Chute Ouiatchouan (72 m) lies 15.9 kilometres to the west.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 4.0-km loop trail gains 116 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Specific trail descriptions for Chute Martine are not widely available in major trail databases. The approach may consist of a short path through mixed forest to a riverside viewpoint, or simply a short walk from a roadside parking area. Trails (if present) may be uneven, rocky, and not waymarked. Expect minimal infrastructure (few or no railings, stairs, or formal viewpoints).
What to Expect
A forested and rocky river setting with seasonal variation in water flow. Spring (snowmelt) typically produces the highest flows and most dramatic appearance. Summer may reveal lower flows and exposed rock; fall offers foliage colors. In winter, parts of the falls may freeze and form ice features but conditions can be hazardous. There are likely limited or no services (no restrooms, shelters, or staffed visitor centers). Mobile phone coverage may be spotty in some areas.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Chute Martine?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Chute Martine?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring for highest water flow and fuller appearance; early fall for combined water view and fall color. Summer is common for easier travel, though flows may be lower. Winter offers ice formations but requires experience with winter travel and caution around ice and steep slopes.
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
• Rocks and riverbanks are often slippery, use caution near the water's edge. • Currents can be strong; avoid entering the water without local knowledge and appropriate safety measures. • Seasonal hazards: spring melt can increase flow and cause unstable banks; winter brings ice hazards and hypothermia risk. • Cell coverage may be limited; tell someone your plans and expected return time. • Blackflies and mosquitoes can be intense in late spring and early summer, bring repellent and protective clothing.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Dolbeau hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Chute Martine is located at approximately 48.3809, -71.9659 in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean area of Quebec. It is roughly 35.0 miles from Dolbeau and about 41.4 miles from Chicoutimi by road (distances are approximate). Access is likely by local secondary roads; final approach may be on unpaved roads or short forest tracks. Visitors should use up-to-date maps or GPS coordinates and check local sources (municipal or regional park pages) for the most current access information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking information is not well documented. There may be informal or roadside parking near the access point. Expect limited or no developed parking facilities; a small unpaved turnout may be present. Confirm parking options locally before arrival.
Elevation
191 metres above sea level
Coordinates
48.380917° N, -71.965850° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Confirm access and road conditions locally before you go; secondary roads in the region can be rough or closed seasonally. • Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear, approaches are likely rocky and slippery. • Bring insect repellent for blackflies and mosquitoes in spring/summer. • Respect private property and any posted signs; if access crosses private land, permission may be required. • Leave no trace: pack out all trash and avoid disturbing riverbanks or vegetation. • If visiting in winter, use appropriate cold-weather gear and be cautious of ice and avalanche-prone slopes where relevant.
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This easy 4.0 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.
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.
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 Desmeules
3.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The broader Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region offers attractions such as Lac Saint-Jean, Parc national du Fjord‑du‑Saguenay (further east toward Chicoutimi), regional rivers and lakes, and small towns with cultural and outdoor recreation opportunities. Exact proximity to these attractions will vary; plan based on local maps.
Wildlife
Typical regional wildlife may include moose, white-tailed deer, beaver, black bear, foxes, and a variety of birds (including waterfowl and raptors). Take normal wildlife precautions: store food securely, give animals space, and know how to react to bears in the area.
Cities near Chute Martine
Nearby Waterfalls
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