About Bushy Falls
Bushy Falls is a small, relatively remote waterfall located in the Wawa area of Ontario (approximate coordinates 47.724, -84.9515), roughly 20.9 miles from the town of Wawa. Sources are limited and local reports suggest it is a modest cascade on a creek or small river rather than a major vertical drop. Water flow is likely seasonal, highest in spring runoff and after heavy rain, and the feature may appear reduced in late summer or dry periods. There does not appear to be an established provincial park developed specifically for this waterfall; access is likely informal and may require travel on secondary or logging roads and short off-trail approaches.
The Setting
Bushy Falls sits at 280 metres within Lake Superior Provincial Park, in the foothills of Ontario.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Bushy Falls flows over hard metamorphic rock, primarily marble and iron formation, laid down over 2.5-3.2 billion years ago. The softer siltstone and mudstone erodes faster than the resistant marble and iron formation, creating a ledge that the water plunges over.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Gargantua River Falls (4 m) lies 15.1 kilometres to the south.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is limited reliable documentation of a maintained trail to Bushy Falls. Access may require following an unimproved footpath, a short bushwhack, or walking from a roadside pullout. Trails in this region can be rocky, rooty, and uneven with occasional wet or boggy sections depending on season. Because there is no clear, official trail description available, treat the route as unmarked and prepare for route-finding.
What to Expect
Expect a small, scenic cascade rather than a large multi-tiered waterfall. Surroundings are typical northern Ontario mixed forest, spruce, fir, poplar, with rocky stream banks. There are unlikely to be visitor facilities (no restrooms, no designated viewpoints, no guardrails). In spring the flow can be strong and banks slippery; in summer the creek may be much lower. Bugs (black flies and mosquitoes) can be abundant in late spring and early summer. Wildlife in the area may include moose, black bear, deer, and small mammals.
Accessibility
Access is likely unimproved and not wheelchair accessible. The site may require uneven footing, short bushwhacking, or negotiating rocks and roots. Those with limited mobility should exercise caution and consider viewing from the roadside if possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bushy Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bushy Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt) for highest flows and dramatic water volume. Summer offers easier access but potentially lower flows; fall provides good colors and fewer bugs. Winter can create attractive ice formations, but access is more difficult and hazardous due to ice, cold, and limited services.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Lake Superior Provincial Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
• Hazards: slippery rocks, steep or unstable banks, cold and fast-moving water, biting insects, limited cell coverage, and potential for changing weather. • Do not attempt to climb wet cliffs or approach the edge of the falls where footing is unsure. • Check local road and weather conditions before traveling; some approaches may be impassable after heavy rain or during spring thaw. • If hiking in bear country, carry bear deterrent according to local guidance and know how to use it. • Leave No Trace and avoid sensitive streamside vegetation to limit erosion.
Know when to go.
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Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Bushy Falls is in a remote/rural part of the Wawa area. Expect to travel from Wawa on paved and secondary roads; final approach may be on gravel or logging roads. There may not be signed public access or an established trailhead. Use detailed maps, GPS coordinates (47.724, -84.9515), and recent trip reports for route planning. A high-clearance vehicle may be helpful if travelling on unpaved roads. Cell coverage may be limited; carry offline maps and navigation tools.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is likely no formal parking lot. Visitors should park well off the roadway, avoid blocking gates or forestry operations, and use common-sense low-impact parking. If a pullout exists it will probably be informal and unmarked.
Elevation
280 metres above sea level
Coordinates
47.723993° N, -84.951450° W
Land Management
Managed by Ontario Parks
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Treat the site as remote: bring navigation (GPS, map), plenty of water, and emergency supplies. • Wear sturdy footwear with good traction; banks and rocks can be slippery. • Check road conditions and local logging activity before travel; some roads may be gated or seasonally closed. • Practice Leave No Trace: pack out all trash and avoid disturbing vegetation or stream banks. • If you encounter private property or posted signs, respect closures and do not trespass. • Expect limited or no cell service; inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
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
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Nearby Campground
Lake Superior Park - Rabbit Blanket Campground
9.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Town of Wawa (Wawa Goose), Lake Superior shoreline and provincial parks, other regional waterfalls such as Magpie Falls and nearby creek cascades. Use Wawa visitor resources for current suggestions and access notes.
Wildlife
Moose, black bear, white-tailed deer, foxes, beavers, and a variety of forest birds. Take standard precautions for bears (store food securely, make noise on approach) and be aware of moose on or near roads.
Cities near Bushy Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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