Before you go
There is no road access. The falls are seen on flight tours from Norman Wells or reached on a 7 km detour from the 371 km Canol Heritage Trail, a wilderness route that requires pack-raft river crossings.
Difficulty
Hard
About Carcajou Falls
Carcajou Falls is a remote waterfall in the Mackenzie Mountains of the Sahtu Region, Northwest Territories, about 70 km south of Norman Wells, the nearest community. Most people see it on aerial flight tours, and hikers on the Canol Heritage Trail reach it on a 7 km side trip. The falls' distinctive rock column collapsed in June 2023, changing their appearance.
The Setting
Carcajou Falls sits at 554 metres within Mountain Dene Land, in the hills of Northwest Territories.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Carcajou Falls flows over Mount Clark Formation, a layered sedimentary rock layer deposited about 509-539 million years ago. These soft rocks erode readily, allowing the stream to carve a vertical drop into the landscape.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is no day-hike trailhead. Carcajou Falls is a 7 km detour from the Canol Heritage Trail, which starts across the Mackenzie River from Norman Wells and is one of the most demanding hikes in North America, with four river crossings that require a pack raft (Miles 25, 50, 129/131 and 173).
What to Expect
A remote, undeveloped waterfall in boreal wilderness. Expect limited or no signage, no facilities, and potentially difficult route-finding. Natural features may include rocky ledges, steep drops near the water, rapids upstream or downstream, and thick vegetation. In summer, insects (mosquitoes/black flies) will be common. Water is likely very cold year-round. Cell service is likely absent or unreliable.
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 Carcajou Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Carcajou Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Mid-summer (June–August) generally offers the most reliable access and milder conditions; late spring may give higher water flows but can coincide with spring breakup hazards. Fall can offer cooler weather and fewer bugs but shorter daylight. Winter access is possible by snowmachine or ski/air, but travel is subject to extreme cold and limited daylight, only attempt with appropriate experience and 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
This is a remote wilderness area with limited or no cell coverage and no rescue services nearby. Hazards include rapid weather changes, cold water, slippery rocks, steep banks and drops, fast river currents, muskeg and deep wet ground, insects, and potential large wildlife encounters. Bring redundant navigation and communication tools, travel with experienced partners or a guide, file an itinerary with local contacts, and carry emergency supplies. If unsure about access or conditions, consult local authorities or outfitters in Norman Wells before attempting travel.
Know when to go.
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Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Norman Wells is the staging point, reached by air. Visitors typically see the falls on an aerial flight tour. Canol Heritage Trail hikers start across the Mackenzie River from Norman Wells; there is no road access from the NWT.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No formal parking area is known at the falls. Nearest vehicle staging or parking would be in Norman Wells or at established boat/air charter points. Expect no developed parking, restrooms, or signage at the site.
Elevation
554 metres above sea level
Coordinates
64.672020° N, -127.151307° W
Land Management
Managed by Indigenous Government; Government of the Northwest Territories; Federal Government (Crown-Indigenous Relations And Northern Affairs Canada)
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Arrange transport with local charter services (floatplane/helicopter) or experienced local guides if you are not familiar with remote northern travel. 2) Carry satellite communication or PLB and a detailed GPS/backup map. 3) Expect mosquitoes and bring insect repellent and head net. 4) Store food securely and be bear-aware, carry bear deterrents appropriate for the region and know how to use them. 5) Pack out all trash; there are no facilities. 6) Check weather and river/ice conditions before departure; spring breakup can make river travel hazardous.
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Canol Heritage Trail and Norman Wells on the Mackenzie River.
Wildlife
Typical northern boreal species may include moose, black bear, possibly grizzly bear in the broader region, wolves, foxes, wolverine, beaver, and numerous migratory bird species. Take standard wildlife precautions.
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