Parc des Chutes Dorwin: Chasing Waterfalls and Forest Trails Near Montreal

Sometimes you just need a break from the city, somewhere green, quiet, and easy to enjoy as a family. That’s exactly what we found at Parc des Chutes Dorwin in Rawdon. It’s about an hour’s drive from Montreal, but once you’re there, it feels like a totally different world. Tall trees, rushing water, and wide, peaceful trails make it the kind of spot where you can just breathe a little deeper.

We spent a few hours walking through the forest, stopping at lookout points, and listening to the sound of the waterfalls. The trails were easy enough for our kids to manage, but still felt like a bit of an adventure. There are some wooden bridges, rocky paths, and places where you can walk right alongside the river, just enough variety to keep things interesting without being too tiring.

 

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What we loved most was how calm and uncrowded it felt. It wasn’t noisy, there were no long lines, and we could take our time. No rush, no stress, just a quiet afternoon in nature. If you’re looking for a simple outing that still feels special, this is a really lovely option.

 

Getting There and What to Expect

Parc des Chutes Dorwin is in Rawdon, just about an hour north of Montreal. The drive is easy, and once you arrive, there’s a clearly marked entrance and plenty of parking. Entrance fees apply during the summer season and include access to the park, parking, and two nearby spots: Parc des Cascades and the Rawdon municipal beach.

Here’s a quick look at the current admission fees:

Visitor Type	Day Pass
Children 0–6 years	Free
Children 7–12 years	$5
Adults 13–64 years	$15
Seniors 65+	$5
Veterans	Free
Rawdon residents (with ID)	Free
Bus/minibus passengers	$8 (13–64 yrs), $5 (7–12 yrs or 65+)

Payment can be made by debit, credit, or cash. After you pay, you’ll get a bracelet that gives you access to all three sites for the day.

Inside the park, the trails are short and easy to follow, perfect for a calm walk with the family. There are picnic tables, shady spots, and great views of the waterfall. Just remember to bring water and snacks, since there are no shops or food stalls on-site.

More details on Rawdon official website (French only)

 

Walking the Trails with the Family

The trails at Parc des Chutes Dorwin are short, simple, and perfect for families. You don’t need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy them, which makes it a great option if you’re visiting with younger kids or just want a relaxing walk in nature. Most of the paths are wide and easy to follow, with a mix of packed dirt, wooden boardwalks, and a few stone steps here and there.

We followed the main loop that winds through the forest and along the Ouareau River. The route is under two kilometers, but we ended up spending over an hour on it, stopping often to take in the views, read the signs, and let the kids explore. There are several lookout points where you can see the waterfall and the river from different angles. Some spots are fenced for safety, especially near the cliffs, while others offer a more open view of the water.

It’s worth noting that swimming is not allowed anywhere in the park. The river current is strong and the rocks are slippery, so make sure to keep little ones close, especially near the water’s edge. There are signs along the trail reminding visitors to stay out of the river, and it’s a good idea to respect those rules.

That said, the trails feel very safe and well maintained. Our kids managed just fine with sneakers, and there were lots of fun little features to keep them interested — small bridges, mossy stumps, and even chipmunks darting through the trees. The whole place has a peaceful, unhurried vibe, and it’s easy to go at your own pace. Whether you’re walking, taking photos, or just soaking in the scenery, it’s a really enjoyable way to spend part of your day outdoors.

 

Scenic Views of the Waterfalls

The highlight of Parc des Chutes Dorwin is definitely the waterfall itself. As soon as you hear the sound of rushing water in the distance, it builds a bit of excitement — and the first time you see the falls through the trees, it’s a real wow moment. The water crashes down between steep rock cliffs surrounded by forest, and it looks just wild enough to feel impressive, but still completely safe to admire from the nearby lookouts.

There are several spots along the trail where you can see the falls from different angles. One of the best viewpoints is from a platform directly across from the cascade. It’s a great photo spot, and also a peaceful place to just stop and take in the power of the water. If you follow the loop trail, you’ll also come across other vantage points — some higher up, some closer to the river.

The park does a nice job of blending the natural landscape with just enough structure. There are fences and barriers where needed, but nothing that takes away from the beauty of the place. The falls are big and loud, but there’s also something calming about watching them for a few minutes while the forest sways around you.

It’s not the kind of waterfall where you get soaked or feel mist from up close, but it’s still pretty dramatic and definitely worth the visit. We found ourselves going back for one last look before heading out, just to take it in one more time.

 

The Indigenous Legend Behind the Falls

One of the unique things about Parc des Chutes Dorwin is that it’s not just a beautiful natural space — it also has a story. According to local legend, the waterfall is named after a sorcerer named Dorwin, and there’s an Indigenous tale tied to the falls that adds a deeper layer to the visit.

The story goes that Dorwin was a powerful sorcerer who loved a young woman named Hiawa. But when he found out she had fallen in love with a warrior from another tribe, he flew into a jealous rage. The legend says that he tried to cast a spell to separate them, but his powers turned against him, and he was swallowed by the falls. Some believe that his spirit still lingers in the rocks and the sound of the water.

You’ll find interpretive signs near the lookouts that briefly tell this story, along with other information about the natural surroundings. It’s a small touch, but one that adds meaning to the experience. The legend gives the falls a bit of mystery and helps connect visitors to the land’s deeper history.

While it’s just a legend, it’s a reminder that places like this carry stories that go far beyond what we see on the surface — and that nature, culture, and storytelling are often closely tied together.

 

Safety Tips and What to Bring

Parc des Chutes Dorwin is pretty low effort in terms of planning, but a few small things can make your visit smoother and more enjoyable, especially if you’re going with kids.

First, wear good walking shoes. The trails are short and not too steep, but there are uneven sections, rocks, and tree roots along the way. Sneakers or hiking shoes are perfect. Avoid sandals or anything too slippery, especially after rain when the paths can get muddy.

Bring your own water and snacks, since there’s no café or food vendor on site. There are picnic tables where you can stop for a break, and the forest offers plenty of shade to cool off. That said, bug spray is a good idea, especially if you’re visiting later in the day. Sunscreen and hats are also worth bringing if you’re planning to spend a bit of time at the open lookouts or on sunny days.

Keep in mind that swimming is strictly not allowed anywhere in the park. The river current is strong, and the rocks can be very slippery. It’s best to enjoy the water from a safe distance and remind little ones to stay behind the barriers and railings.

Lastly, take your time. It’s not a big park, but the peaceful setting is part of what makes it special. There’s no need to rush — just enjoy the forest, the sound of the falls, and the chance to unplug for a bit.

 

Final Thoughts

Parc des Chutes Dorwin was exactly the kind of outing we didn’t know we needed. It’s simple, peaceful, and close enough to Montreal for a spontaneous day trip. There’s something really calming about walking through the forest and hearing the steady rush of the waterfall in the background. It’s not a long hike or an all-day adventure, but that’s part of the charm — it’s easy, quiet, and just the right pace for a relaxed afternoon.

We especially appreciated how family-friendly everything felt. The trails were manageable, the views were great, and there were enough little things — like bridges, lookout points, and local stories — to keep everyone engaged. No screens, no stress, just a few hours to reconnect with nature and each other.

If you’re looking for a spot to unwind, stretch your legs, and enjoy a bit of nature without having to plan too much, Dorwin Falls is definitely worth the stop. It’s beautiful in that understated way Quebec does so well — and we’re already thinking about coming back in the fall to see it with all the colors.