Grande Chute hiking trail

Along the Kipawa River, a 7 km trail has been created, complete with picnic areas and lookouts. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of rapids, waterfalls and giant potholes, a phenomenon caused by the swirling of debris carried along by the current, creating a hollow in the rock. It’s these potholes for which the area is famous.

A 2 km-long forest and flora interpretation trail has also been laid out.

History

In the 20s and 30s, films were shot here by American filmmakers. After the film era, the site was turned into a vacation camp in the ’50s. Actress Lana Turner, married to a member of the Topping family who owned the site at the time, often walked the trail with her actor friends. Among them were John Wayne and Kirk Douglas.

Access

From Témiscaming, follow Highway 101 North. About 9 km after Laniel, turn left and the site is signposted along the road.

For direct access to Grande Chute, turn left onto Topping Grande Chute (gravel forest road). Drive about 8 km and follow the signs to the parking lot.