Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
16.3 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
291 m
About La Grosse Chute (Chute Molson)
La Grosse Chute (also known locally as Chute Molson) is a waterfall feature located near Sept-Îles, Quebec (approx. 6.7 miles / 10.8 km from the town center; coordinates: 50.2838, -66.4457). Sources are limited and details vary by visitor report; the site appears to be a natural cascade in a boreal forest/riverside setting. Flow and appearance are highly seasonal, typically higher in spring runoff and after heavy rain, with lower flow in late summer. The site does not appear to be part of a large developed provincial park with extensive visitor infrastructure, so expect a relatively natural, possibly informal access route.
Why This Waterfall Exists
La Grosse Chute (Chute Molson) 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 moderate 16.3-km out-and-back trail gains 291 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Reliable, detailed trail descriptions are limited. Visitor accounts indicate an informal or lightly developed path from a nearby parking/turnout down to a riverside viewpoint. The route may include uneven, rocky, and rooty surfaces and could be short (a few minutes' walk) or longer depending on the approach used. Expect limited signage and possibly multiple informal game/foot paths. Use caution when descending to water-level viewing points because banks and rocks can be slippery.
What to Expect
A natural, relatively remote waterfall setting in boreal forest. Seasonal variability in flow: strong in spring and after rains, lower in late summer or drought. Expect muddy or wet trail segments, rocky viewpoint areas, shoreline vegetation, and insects (black flies and mosquitoes) in warm months. There may be limited or no visitor facilities (no toilets, no formal lookout platforms). Wildlife in the region can include birds, beavers, moose, and occasionally black bears.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at La Grosse Chute (Chute Molson)?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at La Grosse Chute (Chute Molson)?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (high runoff) for more impressive flow and late-May to June for strong spring flows. Summer offers easier access and milder weather but potentially lower flow and more insects. Fall provides color but changing daylight and cooler conditions. Winter can produce ice formations that are scenic but potentially dangerous (slippery, unstable ice and limited access), only attempt with appropriate experience and equipment.
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 may include slippery rocks and wet banks, strong currents near the falls, sudden changes in water level after rain or dam/flow changes upstream, loose or unstable terrain, biting insects in warm months, and wildlife encounters. In winter, iced and snowy approaches can be extremely hazardous due to thin ice near flowing water and poor traction. There may be no cell service and limited emergency access, plan accordingly. Always keep a safe distance from the edge and supervise children closely.
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
From Sept-Îles, head roughly northeast/north along local roads toward the coordinates (approx. 6.7 miles / 10.8 km). Exact driving directions vary depending on the starting point in town and local road conditions; consult local maps or a GPS device. Road surfaces outside town may be gravel and single-lane in places. Mobile coverage may be limited in rural areas.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking details are not well documented. Visitor reports suggest roadside or a small informal parking/turnout near the trailhead rather than a developed lot. Park well off the travel lane and avoid blocking gates or private driveways.
Elevation
63 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.283766° N, -66.445669° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Tell someone your plans and expected return time when visiting remote sites. • Wear sturdy footwear with good traction, banks and rocks near the falls can be slippery. • Bring insect repellent in spring/summer. • Check local weather and road conditions before driving; some access roads may be gravel and poorly maintained. • Avoid going onto wet rocks near the edge; currents and undercut banks can be hazardous. • Respect private property and posted signs, parts of the area around Sept-Îles include private land and forestry access roads.
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With 16.3 km and 291 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 ZEC Matimek
12.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Sept-Îles (town amenities, shoreline views), regional coastal scenery along the Gulf of St. Lawrence; other local rivers and forested trails in the Côte-Nord region. Confirm specifics locally, as many smaller natural attractions in the area are informally documented.
Wildlife
Typical boreal species may be encountered: various songbirds and waterfowl, beavers, moose, black bears (less common but present in the region), small mammals, and insects (notably black flies and mosquitoes in warm months).
Cities near La Grosse Chute (Chute Molson)
Nearby Waterfalls
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