Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
2.4 km
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
93 m
About Chutes Dorwin
Chutes Dorwin (Dorwin Falls) is a small, scenic waterfall and municipal park near Rawdon in the Lanaudière region of Quebec. The site features boardwalks and viewing platforms that give close vantage points of the falls and the river gorge. The setting is forested and popular with day visitors for short walks, photography and picnics. Exact height figures vary by source; the falls are a multi-step cascade rather than a single high drop.
Why This Waterfall Exists
This waterfall flows over layered sedimentary rock. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating the step that forms the waterfall.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 2.4-km loop trail gains 93 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trails around Chutes Dorwin are short, well-maintained and primarily consist of paved paths, boardwalks and a few stair sections leading to viewpoints. The main circuit is a short loop that passes several overlooks and picnic spots; some viewpoints require descending a number of steps to get closer to the river. The route is suitable for a short leisure walk rather than a long hike.
What to Expect
Expect a small-to-midsize cascade with multiple drops, framed by mixed forest. There are wooden boardwalks and viewing platforms placed to protect the gorge and provide safe vantage points. The site can be crowded during warm weekends and autumn foliage season. In spring flows are higher and more dramatic; in winter the falls can be partly frozen, producing striking ice formations but also icy walking surfaces.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Chutes Dorwin?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Chutes Dorwin?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (high water flow and lush green forest) and fall (autumn colors) are the most visually striking. Summer offers warm weather for a picnic but typically lower flows. Winter provides dramatic ice features but expect icy trails and limited access to some viewpoints.
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
Hazards include slippery boardwalks and rocks, steep edges near the gorge, strong currents near the falls, and icy surfaces in winter. Stay on marked trails and observation platforms, supervise children closely, and avoid approaching the water edge. Cell coverage can be inconsistent in some rural areas, plan accordingly. If conditions are wet, muddy or icy, expect increased slip risk.
Know when to go.
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Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The falls are located near Rawdon (Lanaudière), roughly 31 miles north of Montréal by road. Coordinates: 46.0298, -73.7039. From Montréal drive north on Autoroute 15/Autoroute 25 and follow local routes toward Rawdon/Joliette (follow municipal signage to Parc des Chutes Dorwin). There are short paved access roads from the nearest town; the final approach is by a short walk from the park parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small municipal parking area close to the park entrance and viewing trail. Spaces can be limited on weekends and holidays; parking may be regulated/paid during peak season, check local signage or the municipal park website before visiting.
Elevation
141 metres above sea level
Coordinates
46.029790° N, -73.703898° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes; boardwalks and river rocks can be slippery. 2) Parking is limited on busy days, arrive early on weekends. 3) Stay on marked paths and viewing platforms; river banks and rocks are hazardous. 4) Bring insect repellent in warm months. 5) Check municipal/park pages for any temporary closures or maintenance.
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This easy 2.4 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
Camping Parc Ensoleillé
0.8 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Town of Rawdon (local shops and services), other hiking and nature areas in the Lanaudière region, and small local lakes popular for swimming and recreation. Joliette and Saint-Jérôme are regional service centers within a short drive.
Wildlife
Typical southern Quebec forest species: songbirds, squirrels, small mammals, white-tailed deer and waterfowl. Be alert for ticks in warmer months. Wildlife sightings are possible but usually low-risk.
Cities near Chutes Dorwin
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