Just outside of Thunder Bay, Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park offers a variety of fun winter activities for day visitors of all types.
Here are four reasons why you need to add this park to your list this winter:
1. Ontario’s second tallest waterfall – frozen!
Kakabeka Falls looks pristine when all that water freezes.
The best places to view the falls are from the viewing platforms along the Boardwalk Trail. This short 750m hike circles the top of the falls and offers the best views from the highway side near the parking lot.
Seriously, a camera is a must for any winter visit to this neck of the woods.
2. Great ski slopes
The park offers 15 km of groomed cross-country ski trails with circuits for beginner, intermediate and expert skiers.
Our grooming staff visits the slopes regularly, grooming the classic ski and skate slopes for their visitors.
Visitors should be sure to try the River Terrace Trail. It’s the longest in the park, at just under 10km, and offers panoramic views of the Kaministiquia River, as well as some challenging hills.
3. Snowshoe adventures
Put on your snowshoes and explore Kakabeka Falls in a different way this winter. We encourage enthusiasts to explore the Mountain Portage Trail, an easy loop with great views of the falls, gorge, and river.
Mountain transportation trail
For a bit more of a challenge, try the Little Falls trail. It has a steep descent into the river valley where you can see the picturesque Little Falls.
4. Winter Bird Residents
Many bird species call Kakabeka Falls their home all winter long. Woodpecker, Grosbeak and Redpoll make frequent appearances.
You are very likely to see a bald eagle around the falls as they often hunt in the area; Like we said, you’ll be glad you brought a camera.
What are you waiting for?
Perhaps the best part of winter at Kakabeka Falls is the feeling of isolation; a chance to see one of Ontario’s coolest natural waterfalls, away from the summer crowds.
And although the campground is closed during the winter, day visitors are more than welcome to explore and play any day of the year. It’s just a 25-minute drive from Thunder Bay via Highway 11/17.
A valid daily vehicle permit or season pass is required while in the park (yes, even during the winter).
Visitors are encouraged to purchase their daily vehicle permit online before heading to the park. Now you can do it up to five days before your arrival date!
You can also purchase a vehicle permit with your cell phone in the park by scanning the QR code placed at the park entrance and at Kaministiquia Ski Hut or by calling 1-888-668-7275.