William Dale
Published online May 6, 2026, at www.pontiacjournal.com.
MANSFIELD – While the roaring falls of Chutes Coulonge have long been a summer staple for adrenaline seekers, the park is undergoing a quiet transformation to secure a future that’s inclusive, community-focused, and active year-round. Plans were detailed at the organization’s annual general meeting on April 9.
One of the most significant physical changes visitors will notice this year is the completion of a major investment in the “bloc sanitaire” (comfort station). The new, modern washroom and shower facility is a strategic move to unlock the park’s potential as a venue for larger groups, overnight stays, and major regional events.
Cameron Montgomery, the park’s director, noted the infrastructure upgrade is already paying off, with increased bookings for the park’s yurts.
For the 2026 season, the park is making the Chutes experience more accessible to all visitors, not just those comfortable with high-altitude thrills. Upgrades include new Zipstop technology on the Giant Zipline to ensure smoother, safer landings, as well as added railings and designated rest areas along key sections of the trail system.
Beyond the physical upgrades, the park is leveraging a new community grant to expand its non-profit programming to turn it into a daily hub for local residents. This summer, the schedule includes daily clubs ranging from bird watching and stargazing to walking groups and Indigenous teachings.
“While the aerial park remains a major draw, we’re really excited to expand the kinds of experiences people can have here,” Montgomery said, noting the success of recent “Waterfall Wellness Retreats”—which featured sound bath meditation and yoga—and March Break camps focused on animal tracking and fire-making.
Looking ahead, the park is planning a Canada Day celebration in partnership with the municipality and a Waterfall Wellness canoe trip in September. It is also expanding its Festival of Lights to attract not only local visitors, but international tourists seeking an authentic Canadian winter experience.
Photo – Water rushes over the falls at Chutes Coulonge, where new upgrades and expanded programming aim to make the park more accessible and active year-round. (WD)