Top Waterfalls to Discover in Northwestern Ontario
Northwestern Ontario is a wild a rugged region full of opportunities for outdoor adventure and outdoor exploration. One of the highlights of this part of the province is its spectacular waterfalls. From the second highest waterfall in Ontario to off the beaten path gems, here are four stunning must-see waterfalls to discover in Northwestern Ontario.
Aguasabon Falls & Gorge - Terrace Bay, Ontario
Only minutes away from the small town of Terrace Bay, the Aguasabon Falls & Gorge is a stunning, must-see attraction along Lake Superior’s North shore. This spectacular 30.5 m waterfall cascades into the Aguasabon Gorge, flowing along a 2.6-billion-year-old rock face. Fierce during the spring melt, and picturesque in the fall surrounded by colourful fall foliage, the Aguasabon falls is definitely a must-see in Northwestern Ontario.
The short trail to the falls is easily accessible from the Terrace Bay Tourist Information Center and provides a beautiful view of not only the falls, but Lake Superior in the distance. For those road tripping with RVs, the large parking lot provides easy accessibility. If you are looking to explore the area further, there are several nearby trails which take you from the falls to the mouth of Lake Superior, Terrace Bay Beach and Danny’s Cove.
Kakabeka Falls - Thunder Bay, Ontario
One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Northern Ontario is the majestic Kakabeka Falls, located in Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park. Located just outside Thunder Bay directly off Highway 11, the 40 m high falls is the second highest waterfall in Ontario, and is viewable all year round. Over time the iron-stained Kaministiquia River, a historic route of the Voyageurs, has cut deep into the rocks around the falls, carving out the Precambrian Shield to reveal 1.6-million-year-old fossils. Endangered lake sturgeon spawn every spring at the base of the falls,, which offer amazing views when surrounded by a vibrant fall canopy, and in the winter months when portions of the falls freeze over.
A series of trails and a picturesque boardwalk wrap around the top portion of the falls, with observation decks offering excellent views from both sides. The easy 1.25 km Mountain Portage trail, which starts at the Visitors Center, is a good way to stretch your legs and get great views of the gorge, falls and river while enjoying the peacefulness of the surrounding forest.
High Falls - Pigeon River Provincial Park, Ontario
One of the few trans-national waterfalls in Ontario, High Falls, located in Pigeon River Provincial Park will give you those mini–Niagara Falls vibes. The High Falls trail is an easy 2.5 km loop that takes you along an old logging road, where you’ll pass a re-creation of an old logging chute, and the old chimney site from logging days past. When you arrive at the 40 m waterfall bordering Ontario and Minnesota, you’ll enjoy vistas of the cascades from a lovely viewing point with picture-perfect view of the falls. You’ll also be able to see the viewing point from Grand Portage State Park on the American side - while the US side is often quite crowded, we had the Canadian platform to ourselves, and similar to Niagara Falls, the views from the Canadian side are indeed better.
To access the High Falls trail, park at the Visitor’s Centre directly before the Canada-US border, and follow the trail under the highway to begin your hike.
Mazukama Falls – Nipigon, Ontario
If you’re up for a challenge, the Mazukama Falls located 20 km east of Nipigon in the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area are the falls for you. Classified as a wilderness recreation trail, the 3.1 km Mazukama Falls Loop is a difficult trail with over 120 m in elevation gain and sections with unstable footing, steep climbing and some creeks that need to be waded. Pass by fern-covered boulders, under majestic old-growth moss-covered cedars, and by smaller cascades and waterfalls flowing over the red rock of the Kama Cliffs. While difficult to access, the 25 m high waterfall and series of smaller falls is worth the trek.
For those looking for a longer hike, take the spur to Wingtip Lookout known as “Stairway of the Saints” (which makes the total trail climb a 6.7 km loop). The steep but worthwhile climb will reward you with breathtaking panoramic views of Nipigon Bay and the surrounding area.
