Live Conditions · 117.0 m³/s · Higher than usual

Anderson Falls

Northwest Territories Thaidene Nene National Park Reserve

By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026

Thaidene Nene National Park Reserve Of Canada National Park · Parks Canada Agency

About Anderson Falls

Anderson Falls (approx. 62.883, -108.5778) is a remote northern waterfall in the Northwest Territories. Very little official, published trail or facilities information is available. The falls are in a sparsely populated wilderness area and are typically accessed by river travel, canoe/kayak or floatplane; there is unlikely to be a developed visitor infrastructure. Exact height and measured characteristics are not well documented and may vary seasonally.

The Setting

Anderson Falls sits at 341 metres within Thaidene Nene National Park Reserve, in the foothills of Northwest Territories.

Why This Waterfall Exists

Anderson Falls flows over hard intrusive rock laid down over 2.5-2.8 billion years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating the falls where softer material downstream has already eroded.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

There is no well-documented maintained trail to Anderson Falls in publicly available sources. Approaches may require paddling on rivers/lakes and a bushwhack over tundra/forest and uneven terrain to the falls. Expect unmarked routes, rocky and potentially slippery approaches near water, and the need to navigate without trail infrastructure.

What to Expect

Remote wilderness setting with no facilities (toilets, signage, maintained viewpoints). Variable water flow: higher in spring from snowmelt and lower in late summer. Strong currents and slippery rock on and near the falls. Very limited or no cell service. Insects (mosquitoes and black flies) can be intense in summer. Wildlife typical of the NWT such as moose, bears, wolves and a variety of migratory birds may be encountered.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible. Access likely requires watercraft, floatplane or lengthy overland travel and traversing uneven, unmaintained terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Anderson Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Anderson Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Late spring (for higher flows) through summer and early fall for safer travel and milder weather. Mid-summer offers the warmest conditions and the most reliable access by small aircraft or watercraft; spring melt may increase hazard from strong currents. Winter access is possible only with specialized overland travel (snowmobile/over-snow aircraft) and is not recommended without local expertise.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Thaidene Nene National Park Reserve for current conditions.

Safety Information

This is a remote wilderness destination with limited or no cell coverage and no emergency services close by. Hazards include rapidly changing weather, cold water and strong currents, slippery rocks and unstable banks, insect swarms in summer, and large mammals. Always travel with appropriate safety gear, file an itinerary, consider hiring an experienced local guide, and carry a satellite communicator or PLB. If approaching by water, be prepared for portages and swift river sections. Exercise extreme caution near cliff edges and the top and base of the falls.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Strong

117.0 m³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Higher than usual for this time of year

Based on 65 years of record

1.79 m

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.

About This Gauge

WSC 07RD001
5.8 km from waterfall

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

The waterfall is in remote northern wilderness. There are likely no public paved roads leading directly to the site. Typical approaches may involve floatplane, charter aircraft, or long canoe/kayak travel along connected rivers and lakes, followed by a short bushwhack. Visitors should plan for multi-modal travel and expect limited or no signage. Local outfitters or floatplane services (if available in the broader region) are the most reliable way to reach remote falls in the NT.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Elevation

341 metres above sea level

Coordinates

62.882990° N, -108.577797° W

Land Management

Thaidene Nene National Park Reserve Of Canada National Park

Managed by Parks Canada Agency

Visitor Tips & Gear

Plan for self-sufficiency: carry route maps, GPS or satellite communicator, extra food and fuel. Check floatplane/air charter availability well in advance if relying on air access. Travel with an experienced northern guide if unfamiliar with remote paddling or bush travel. Be prepared for wet, cold conditions even in summer and for insect protection. Leave an itinerary with someone reliable and expect long travel times between communities.

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

The area around Anderson Falls is remote and not well-documented for developed tourist attractions. The broader region contains many lakes, rivers and wilderness opportunities for paddling, fishing and wildlife viewing; interested visitors should research local outfitters or regional guides for recommended nearby sites.

Wildlife

Possible wildlife includes moose, black and brown bears, wolves, foxes, and a variety of migratory birds and waterfowl. Standard northern-wilderness wildlife precautions apply.

Nearby Waterfalls

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