Difficulty
Hard
About Big Falls
Big Falls (Manitoba) is a relatively remote waterfall located in the boreal/precambrian landscape of eastern Manitoba near the provided coordinates (50.8463, -96.2989). Visitor descriptions indicate a rugged, natural setting rather than a developed tourist site, expect forested approaches, rock ledges, and a stream or river channel that creates the falls. Specifics about the waterfall's exact drop configuration (single drop vs. tiers) and official name usage vary locally; the site may be known primarily to local paddlers, anglers, or trail users. Flow is typically higher during spring melt and after heavy rains and lower in late summer. Access may require driving on secondary/gravel roads and a short hike or boat/canoe approach.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Big Falls flows over hard crystalline rock, primarily tonalite, 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
Approaches are likely unmarked and over natural terrain. Trail surfaces may include roots, rocks and wet ground; scrambling down to the water's edge may be required to get a full view. There may be no maintained boardwalks, guardrails, or viewing platforms. If the falls are on a river system, the most direct access for some visitors may be by boat/canoe. Expect limited trail infrastructure and variable difficulty depending on route chosen.
What to Expect
A natural, scenic waterfall in a forested, rock-ledged setting. Seasonal flow variability: highest in spring during snowmelt, lower in late summer. No guaranteed visitor facilities (no restrooms, no formal viewpoints). Wildlife is common (birds, small mammals, possibly moose or bear). Cell service may be limited or unavailable. Slippery rocks and steep edges near the falls create hazards.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Big Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Big Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (high flow from snowmelt) for the most dramatic water volume. Early summer and early fall for better weather and trail conditions. Winter can produce frozen falls that are scenic but access may be hazardous (ice, deep snow, closed roads) and is recommended only for experienced winter travelers with proper equipment.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery rocks, steep or unstable edges, cold and fast-flowing water, limited or no cell reception, seasonal road closures, and wildlife encounters (including bears). Use caution near cliff edges and water, avoid alcohol near hazardous areas, check weather and road conditions before travel, and carry emergency communication or a personal locator if venturing into remote areas. If you are unsure about access or safety, seek local guidance.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 28.4 km away
34.8 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 58 years of record
224.04 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
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Gimli hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The falls are in a remote area of eastern Manitoba. Nearest towns cited are Gimli (~40.1 miles) and Selkirk (~58.8 miles). From larger centers you will likely travel on provincial highways and then on secondary or gravel roads. Final approaches may be along unpaved logging or recreation roads and could require a short hike from a pullout or access point; some visitors access similar falls by canoe/kayak if on a river system. Expect limited or no signage. Confirm local road conditions and route with Manitoba parks or local authorities before travel.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is likely no formal developed parking lot. Expect limited roadside pullouts or informal parking at trailheads or canoe put-ins. Park legally and avoid blocking roads. In wet seasons some access roads may be soft or impassable for low-clearance vehicles.
Elevation
229 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.846347° N, -96.298869° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Check local conditions and road access before you go; contact local parks or Manitoba government resources if unsure. 2) Wear sturdy, water-resistant footwear with good traction. 3) Bring a topographic map, GPS, or offline navigation, routes may be unmarked. 4) Carry insect repellent in spring/summer and tick checks after hikes. 5) Leave no trace: pack out all trash and avoid disturbing vegetation. 6) Avoid getting too close to cliff edges or wet rock; currents can be strong and rocks slippery. 7) Tell someone your route and expected return time; cell reception may be unreliable.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Manigotagan Campground
28.3 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby larger points of interest in the broader region include communities on the western shore of Lake Winnipeg (for example Gimli) and provincial recreation areas and parks in the Interlake and eastern Manitoba regions. Specific nearby formal attractions are not confirmed for the exact waterfall site; consult regional visitor resources for up-to-date information.
Wildlife
Typical boreal species may include white-tailed deer, moose, black bear, beavers, otters, and a variety of birds (waterfowl, raptors, songbirds). Insect activity (mosquitoes, black flies, ticks) can be significant in warmer months.
Cities near Big Falls
Other waterfalls named Big Falls
23 other waterfalls share this name across Canada.
Writing about Big Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.