Pigeon River Provincial Park High Falls
Experience the powerful High Falls, a stunning cascade on the Canada-U.S. border, accessible via scenic trails in Pigeon River Provincial Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the falls with fresh greenery.
Pigeon River Provincial Park High Falls
Best Time
See the falls with fresh greenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the powerful High Falls, a stunning cascade on the Canada-U.S. border, accessible via scenic trails in Pigeon River Provincial Park.
"A breathtaking view awaited us at the top: the majestic waterfall cascaded down powerfully."
Park Smart 🚗
Park at the Travel Information Office; a small fee applies.
Trail Etiquette :hiking_boot:
The trail is well-maintained but can be slippery near the falls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
High Falls
Pigeon River Provincial Park
A powerful cascade tumbling down, offering stunning views from the Canadian side.
+1
Pigeon River Trail
Pigeon River Provincial Park
An easy, well-maintained loop trail with historical plaques and scenic river views.
Canada-U.S. Border Views
Pigeon River Provincial Park
Experience the unique sensation of being right on the border, with views into both countries.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Trail Access
Best Views & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Park Smart 🚗
Park at the Travel Information Office; a small fee applies.
Trail Etiquette :hiking_boot:
The trail is well-maintained but can be slippery near the falls.
Border Awareness :flag_ca::flag_us:
Be mindful of your proximity to the Canada-U.S. border.
Kid & Dog Friendly :dog:
The loop is manageable for kids and dogs, with potential shortcuts.
Tips
from all over the internet
Park Smart 🚗
Park at the Travel Information Office; a small fee applies.
Trail Etiquette :hiking_boot:
The trail is well-maintained but can be slippery near the falls.
Border Awareness :flag_ca::flag_us:
Be mindful of your proximity to the Canada-U.S. border.
Kid & Dog Friendly :dog:
The loop is manageable for kids and dogs, with potential shortcuts.
Viewpoint Choice :camera:
Consider visiting the U.S. side for arguably better waterfall views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise High Falls for its stunning natural beauty and accessible hiking trails. The unique location on the Canada-U.S. border and the powerful cascade are major draws. Some note that the U.S. side offers better views, while the Canadian side provides a more tranquil experience. Limited facilities and slippery rocks are minor drawbacks.
" There were many unforgettable memories from this hiking journey. We started in downtown Thunder Bay, following Highway 61 towards the Provincial Park, guided by Google Maps. Since the park is near the border between Canada and the U.S., it’s important to be mindful as you approach the area.
_ Near the end of the highway, close to the Canada-U.S. border, you will see the Canadian border station. Do not continue driving past this station. Before you reach it, about 300 meters back towards Canada, you will find a Travel Information Office, which is where you should park.
_ The parking lot is next to the Travel Information Office and has about 20-30 spaces. The parking fee is $2, which is used for maintaining the trail.
_ From the parking lot, we followed the trail running parallel to the highway, crossed through a tunnel under the road, and continued on the trail towards High Falls.
_The High Falls trail was well-maintained and in good condition when our family went hiking.
_ There are several stairs at the end of the trail leading up to the viewpoint. While climbing them can be a bit tiring, the effort is well worth it.
_ A breathtaking view awaited us at the top: the majestic waterfall cascaded down powerfully, creating an unforgettable scene that will stay with all visitors."
Quang Tri
"We have been to the Pigeon River and falls on both the U.S. and Canada sides. The park on the Canadian side is smaller, more rustic and less people. Honestly, you get better views of the High Falls from the US Grand Portage side but we loved less foot traffic and some of the views on the Canadian side. It’s more rustic but very well maintained. The loop to the high falls takes about one hour starting at the Ontario Visitors Center."
Michael Hecker - Park Reviewer
"Very easy hike. Kid and dog friendly if they can do the distance, but there are also shortcuts if they can't. Great views. Water was surprisingly not freezing cold, but rocks are very slippery to walk in. Not great for swimming. Trails are well marked. Lots of cool plants and flowers!"
Jaclyn Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Thunder Bay, take Highway 61 South towards the Canada-U.S. border. Park at the Travel Information Office before reaching the border station. The trail starts from there.
Yes, High Falls is also accessible from Grand Portage State Park in Minnesota, offering different perspectives of the waterfall.
Follow Highway 61 South. Google Maps is a reliable guide. Remember to park at the Travel Information Office.
While not specifically mentioned, always check local road conditions before your trip, especially when traveling near border areas. mentions river levels after storms.
No, you need to park at the Travel Information Office and hike the designated trail to reach the viewpoint.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a parking fee of $2, which contributes to trail maintenance.
The park is generally accessible during daylight hours. The Travel Information Centre may have specific hours, and was closed during COVID.
No, advance booking is not required. You pay a parking fee upon arrival.
No specific discounts are mentioned, but the parking fee is nominal.
The parking fee helps maintain the trails and facilities within the park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The loop to High Falls takes about one hour, making it a relatively short and manageable hike.
The trail is considered easy to moderate, with some stairs leading to the viewpoint that can be tiring but rewarding. +1
Restrooms may not be available on-site, especially if the Travel Centre is closed. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving.
Swimming is not recommended as the rocks are slippery and the water is cold.
The trail features cool plants and flowers, adding to the natural beauty of the hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The main viewpoint at the top of the stairs offers the most dramatic shots of the waterfall. Consider the U.S. side for alternative angles.
While you can get close to the base, be cautious of slippery rocks. The main viewpoint provides excellent photographic opportunities.
Morning light can be beautiful, but the falls are impressive throughout the day. Consider the sun's position to avoid harsh glare.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with Ontario Parks for current rules before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls, and a polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
+1 The park's less crowded nature on the Canadian side can be appealing for those seeking a more solitary connection with nature. 📸 Photographers
+1 A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the grandeur of the falls. While the Canadian viewpoint is good, photographers might find the U.S. side at Grand Portage State Park offers more dramatic angles. shows wildlife potential.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The High Falls Experience: Canadian vs. U.S. Sides
Conversely, the U.S. side at Grand Portage State Park is often cited for providing superior, more direct views of High Falls.
+1When planning your visit, remember that Pigeon River Provincial Park has a small parking fee, while Grand Portage State Park is free to enter. Both offer accessible trails, though the Canadian side's loop is approximately one hour, and the U.S. side is known for its easy hike.
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
As you approach the viewpoint, be prepared for a series of stairs. While these can be a bit tiring, the effort is widely considered worthwhile for the breathtaking panorama that awaits at the top.
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