Kakabeka Falls – Discover nature, trails and culture

Around Kakabeka Falls are the waterfall of the same name and several trails; in the village, the Northwestern Ontario Military and Police Museum adds a glimpse into regional history to a nature outing. You can tailor your trip to scenery, outdoor activities, seasonal pursuits or culture. The activities also differ in whether they are available year-round or only under certain conditions.

Waterfall, river valley and wildlife viewing

Kakabeka Falls is 40 metres high and Ontario’s second-highest waterfall. It can be visited year-round. Boardwalks and a pedestrian bridge lead to viewing platforms on both sides of the falls, offering views of the water. The landscape also tells a long story: the Kaministiquia River has cut deep into the rock, exposing 1.6-million-year-old fossils at the foot of the falls.

Autumn is a special season for wildlife viewing. Bald eagles regularly gather in the gorge below the falls, while salmon swim upstream to spawn. You can watch for wildlife and songbirds along the Poplar Point Trail; sightings are not guaranteed. The colours of the aspen forest along this trail are also especially worth seeing in autumn.

Trails in the area: length, route and difficulty

The trails vary in length, route and stated difficulty. The 750-metre Boardwalk Trail is a straight, easy trail and is wheelchair accessible. The Mountain Portage Trail is also easy and wheelchair accessible: it is 1.25 kilometres long and forms a loop. Part of it follows the historic portage that early travellers used to bypass the falls.

The Little Falls Trail is a 2.5-kilometre loop rated moderate to difficult. It descends steeply into the river valley and passes Little Falls. The 4.5-kilometre Beaver Meadows Trail and 3.5-kilometre River Terrace Trail are described as moderate loops. Two viewpoints along the River Terrace Trail offer views of the Kaministiquia River valley. The 4-kilometre Poplar Point Trail is a loop suitable for cycling.

If you’re looking for a shorter, straight trail, consider the Boardwalk Trail; Mountain Portage is also easy, but follows a loop. Little Falls involves a steep descent into the river valley, while Beaver Meadows and River Terrace are rated moderate. River Terrace also offers views from two viewpoints.

Winter activities and park facilities

Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park has more than 15 kilometres of groomed cross-country ski trails for beginner and advanced skiers. Beaver Meadows and River Terrace are used mainly as groomed cross-country ski trails; these two trails are not maintained in summer. In winter, the trail at Poplar Point is groomed depending on conditions and park operations. Check the current park notices about the trails before your trip.

There is also a 160-metre skating trail accessible via Luckens Road, with parking right beside it. Skating is possible when conditions permit. The visitor centre houses park information, a Park Store and the park’s naturalists. It also has an indoor theatre or meeting room.

Swimming area and visitor information

Upstream of the falls in the park, a small beach lies beside a sheltered section of the Kaministiquia River, with a swimming area marked by buoys. The shoreline slopes gently, but strong currents can occur. When river flow exceeds 50 cubic metres per second, entering the river is prohibited; there are no lifeguards on duty at the beach. Pets are allowed on grassy areas, but not on the sand or in swimming areas. Check the current local notices before swimming.

Museum and getting there

The Northwestern Ontario Military and Police Museum is dedicated to the history of the Canadian military and police services in northwestern Ontario. Its collection includes memorabilia and artefacts that visitors can explore interactively. Admission is free. Visits are by appointment arranged in advance by phone; call to arrange your visit.

Ontario Northland buses stop in the village of Kakabeka Falls. From the stop, the Village Trail, which leads to the falls, is within walking distance. As bus service may change, it is recommended that you check the current service before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Manitouwadge, Nolalu, Thunder Bay, Amethyst Harbour, Nipigon.

Back to the main travel overview: Thunder Bay District.