Lace up your hiking boots and dive into the beauty of northern Manitoba's wilderness. When your heart needs adventure, this blog shares everything you need to know for an epic hike to Kwasitchewan Falls.

The starting point: Pisew Falls

Pisew Falls Provincial Park, located off Highway 6 about 75 km south of Thompson, is a scenic beauty with loads of recreational opportunities. The park features amenities like bathrooms, parking spots, picnic tables and fire pits. A Manitoba Parks pass is required for your vehicle. First off, make sure to check out Pisew Falls (13 m), the second tallest waterfall in Manitoba, either before or after hiking Kwasitchewan Falls (14 m). Here the Grass River drops and jets down through a gorge. There is a short boardwalk that leads you to a couple observation platforms. This park is still a lovely place to explore even if you don't plan on hiking to Kwasitchewan Falls.

Kwasitchewan Falls facts

The Kwasitchewan Falls trailhead is located in Pisew Falls Provincial Park. It is located a seven-hour drive from Winnipeg and just 45 minutes from Thompson. This trail is rated difficult due to its several challenges - rugged terrain, tangled roots, dense overgrown vegetation, constant need for bushwhacking and an abundance of fallen trees and debris. Don’t be fooled - this trail demands great skill and determination. It tests the endurance and agility of even the most experienced hikers. Despite Manitoba Parks indicating the trail is 22 km - take that distance with a grain of salt. It's recommended to hike out and back on the Grass River side due to reports of lots of fallen trees via the Phillips Lake route. Via the Grass River route, the trail clocks in at nearly 30 km. Hikers walking at a moderate speed should expect the distance from trailhead to the campsite at the falls to take 6-8 hrs. Adventurers can also canoe and portage on this trail.

History + scenery = an unforgettable journey

Within 200 m of the trailhead, you will reach the impressive Rotary Suspension Bridge that stretches 153 ft across the Grass River. Constructed in the late 90s, this remarkable bridge was a community effort of numerous individuals, businesses and groups in the north. It is definitely worth visiting, even if you don't plan on hiking the entire Kwasitchewan trail. This trail traces the path of the Grass River, which played an important role in the fur trade route known as the Upper Track during the late 1700s. Generations of Indigenous Peoples had already traversed this route, demonstrating to Hudson Bay Company and North West Company traders that they could access the Saskatchewan River and the vast interior of the west. Competition was fierce along the Grass River during this time, as both companies wanted to gain dominance in the fur trade.

The trail takes hikers along this historic waterway until it reaches Kwasitchewan Falls. Along most of the trail, the serene waters remain in sight, while the boreal forest scenery boasts stands of spruce, pine, tamarack and poplar trees. The trail is shaded and surrounded by a thriving habitat for birds and forest creatures. Prior to reaching the falls, two sets of rapids add to the photogenic journey.

There is limited water access along the trail as overnight hikers head to the designated backcountry campsites. Fortunately, right where the trail separates into the Phillips Lake and Grass River routes, there is a delightful resting spot where you can take a break, have a snack and conveniently refill your water supply.

The rugged Canadian Shield terrain offers a very challenging environment with numerous obstacles. Be mindful of your footing. If it rains, the outcrops of granite rock on the trail can be very slippery. It is crucial to be prepared for all weather conditions; pack for both warm and cool temperatures and be ready to combat bugs along the way. Keep an eye out for natural treasures along the trail - wild raspberries and strawberries grow in early summer. When you arrive, the designated campsites are located on the north loop of trail at the top of the falls. Conveniently right by the water, the sites all have fire pits.

On the north loop of the trail is where you will find a makeshift helicopter pad for those hikers or paddlers who need to be rescued. Two bear boxes to store food are also in this area, but surprisingly far from the campsites.

The main attraction

Once you lay eyes upon the majestic and awe-inspiring sight of Kwasitchewan Falls, Manitoba's tallest waterfall, all the challenges faced along the trail become insignificant. The sheer beauty and grandeur of the waterfall make every step taken well worth the effort. Even before setting eyes on Kwasitchewan Falls, hikers hear the resounding roar of the water. The sense of anticipation is profound. Even after a demanding day of hiking, the sight of the waterfall was breathtaking and incredibly fulfilling. It creates a surge of excitement that any exhausted hiker will find hard to contain.

All hikers should heed the safety warnings from Manitoba Parks: stay on designated trails. Do not go off trail and approach the falls. Falling from high, slippery rocks and strong water current pose real danger.

Kwasitchewan Falls is a true marvel that should be experienced by every adventurous soul. With its awe-inspiring beauty nestled within Pisew Falls Provincial Park, this backcountry trail offers a journey of a lifetime. As you prepare to embark on this unforgettable adventure, armed with valuable backcountry camping tips, get ready to tick off that bucket list item and create cherished memories amidst the untamed wilderness of northern Manitoba.

Happy Adventuring!