Rawdon

Rawdon is a municipality in the Lanaudière region of Quebec, situated where the land meets the beginning of the Canadian Shield mountains. The area features the Ouareau River, two waterfalls, and a lake that draws visitors year-round.

The municipality was founded in 1799 and named after Francis Rawdon-Hastings, a British colonial officer. Irish settlers arrived first, and French-Canadian families began moving in during the following century.

After World War I and the October Revolution, Russian, Ukrainian, and Belarusian noble families from the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth settled here and left marks on local culture. The presence of these communities shaped the character of the place in ways visitors can still observe.

The municipality offers hiking and water activities thanks to its rivers and waterfalls, with options for different skill levels. Weather can change quickly in this region, so layered clothing is helpful year-round.

Dorwin and Manchester waterfalls are within walking distance of downtown, making them easy to visit between other activities. Many travelers overlook how quickly you can reach these natural features from the main area.

Location: Matawinie

Inception: May 28, 1998

Shares border with: Saint-Alphonse-Rodriguez, Sainte-Julienne

Website: https://rawdon.ca/en

GPS coordinates: 46.04222,-73.70722

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:43