Kakabeka Falls

Kakabeka Falls is a waterfall on the Kaministiquia River in Ontario that drops about 40 meters (131 feet) through two tiers into a gorge carved from shale rock. The water flows through narrow rock walls and forms a wide pool at the base before the river continues its course.

The falls served as a navigation point for fur traders and voyageurs crossing the river system in the 18th century. They had to carry their canoes and goods around the drop, making this spot an important rest stop on long journeys.

The name comes from the Ojibwe language and recalls the long connection between this place and the people of the region. Visitors today can walk along maintained paths and watch the power of the water from several viewing points.

The provincial park grounds offer hiking trails of varying length and wooden boardwalks that lead to several viewing points close to the falls. The paths are well accessible in summer, while winter months offer a different perspective with frozen water and ice on the rock walls.

The gorge walls contain fossils that are among the oldest on Earth and date back over 1.6 billion years. At the base of the falls, endangered sturgeon spawn, a fish species that has lived in these waters for thousands of years.

Location: Thunder Bay District

Part of: Kaministiquia River

Website: http://ontarioparks.com/park/kakabekafalls

GPS coordinates: 48.40290,-89.62560

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:29