There is nothing quite like the view of a frozen waterfall. Water frozen in mid-air by bone-chilling temperatures creates a stunning display for the onlooker, and this sight only becomes sweeter by the challenging trek that takes you there. The utmost perfect and unbelievable frozen waterfalls are often tucked away, hidden in the depths of winter. But, they’re begging to be explored by those willing to go the distance. Learn of two snowshoeing routes to the waterfall at the Chute-A-Bull Regional Park in Quebec’s Lanaudiere region.
The trek to explore these immaculate waterfalls is so worth it! Photo: Lindsay MacNevin
A Light Trek To The Falls At Chute-A-Bull
Chute-a-Bull Regional Park in Saint-Come, in the Lanaudiere region of Quebec, offers the perfect snowshoeing adventure all year round. As a previous logging camp that connects the local culture with nature, the park has 6 km (3.7 mi) of hiking and snowshoeing trails.
Upon arrival at the park, well-marked trails and signs will point you in the direction of the beautiful 18m (59 ft) waterfall in the park. Thus, the trails are great for inexperienced snowshoers.
A covered bridge, a lookout point, and a history lesson await you. Snowshoers will come to the top of the frozen waterfall and gasp as they peer over the ledge at the solid ice that magically stands still in time.
Read More: Snowshoeing For Beginners: The First-Timer’s Guide
The author having fun at Chute-A-Bull Regional Park. Photo: Lindsay MacNevin
A Longer Adventure To The Falls From Swaggin Trail
But the real treat is for those snowshoers that are looking for more of an adventure and the chance to get up close and personal with this stunning waterfall. An epic hike of 17-25 km (10.5-15.5 mi) awaits, along with the opportunity for shelter along the way.
Starting from the parking lot at the Swaggin Trail, snowshoers can hike the 8 km (5 mi) trail and seek refuge at the Swaggin shelter overnight. The next day, trekkers will continue on the La Boule trail to the Chute-a-Bull Regional Park. Then, at the park, you will come face to face with the stunning waterfall.
Listen to the silence as you stare at the beauty of the falls. Photo: Lindsay MacNevin
Feel The Gravity Of The Falls
Along the way, beautiful frozen rivers, an abundance of wildlife, and complete nature engulf you. Suddenly, you are face to face with a stunning display of frozen artwork, icicles, and complete silence. No drop of water gets through this solid ice formation. So, as you stare up at the towering waterfall, it dawns on you just how small you really are in this world.
The cold temperatures in this region allow trekkers to get off the beaten path and explore the ice up close. But, be aware of what time of year it is and exercise caution and common sense to limit the risk of falling ice.
Stand under the waterfall and imagine the rushing water during the spring and summer. Imagine years ago when this logging camp pushed the giant logs over the waterfall and drifted them downstream. Bask in the beauty that surrounds you.
When you are ready, it is only a short 1.5 km (0.9 mi) hike to the trailhead, where a parking lot awaits if you choose to have someone pick you up.
For more winter and snowshoeing trails in the Lanaudiere region of Quebec, see this full list from Lanaudiere Tourism.
Also, if the trails are icy and the conditions aren’t suitable for snowshoeing, be sure to bring along a pair of traction devices such as Yaktrax or Kahtoola with you.
Read More: How To Choose The Best Trail: Tips For Learning When You Need Snowshoes
Bring some friends and enjoy the beauty of your journey to the waterfall. Photo: Lindsay MacNevin
Accommodation
Chez Roger L’Ermite offers eco-lodge accommodations just a short hike from the falls for those wanting to spend just a little more time in nature.
Beautiful hand-built cabins complete with handcrafted furniture, recycled materials, and solar panels are available to rent all year round. As you stroke the fire that warms your insides and you think about the amazing trek you just embarked on, to stand under a towering frozen masterpiece, you will wonder if anything can top this experience.
For a longer stay in nature, you can take a break at Chez Roger l’Ermite. Photo: Lindsay MacNevin
What are some of your favorite outings to frozen rivers and waterfalls? Have you gone snowshoeing to the waterfall at Chute-A-Bull Regional Park in the Lanaudiere region of Quebec? Please share your experiences with us in the comments below.
This article was originally published on March 9, 2015, and updated with new information on December 8, 2020.
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