Devil Cap Falls
Ontario • Missinaibi Provincial Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
About Devil Cap Falls
Devil Cap Falls is a little-known waterfall set in the boreal forest of northeastern Ontario near the towns of Hearst (≈35.8 miles) and Kapuskasing (≈47.7 miles). Coordinates for the site are 49.2387, -83.3541. There is limited published information about the falls and no widely documented maintained trail. The waterfall appears in local/recreational reports as a remote, forested feature, likely on a creek or small river channel, and should be treated as a backcountry destination. Specifics such as absolute height are not confidently documented.
The Setting
Devil Cap Falls sits at 247 metres within Missinaibi Provincial Park, in the foothills of Ontario.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Devil Cap Falls flows over hard banded metamorphic rock, primarily gneiss, 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 widely documented, maintained trail to Devil Cap Falls. Approaches reported by local users tend to involve travel on unmaintained logging roads followed by a short bushwhack through boreal forest to reach the creek and falls. Terrain may include wet/muskeg sections, steep banks near the water, downed timber, and dense vegetation in summer. Expect to navigate with map/GPS and to cross uneven or muddy ground; route-finding skills are useful. If you prefer defined trails, plan for a more self-supported, off-trail outing.
What to Expect
A small, forested waterfall in a remote boreal setting. Expect dense conifer and mixed woods, typical northern Ontario understory, mosquitoes and black flies in late spring/early summer, and potentially high flows in spring runoff. There will likely be no facilities (no boardwalks, viewing platforms, or toilets). Rocks around the falls may be wet and slippery; safe viewing requires caution. Wildlife such as moose, black bear, beaver and various bird species inhabit the region.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible. There is no evidence of developed accessibility infrastructure. Access likely includes uneven, potentially steep or boggy ground and is not suitable for visitors requiring accessible trails or facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Devil Cap Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Devil Cap Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (snowmelt) typically provides the highest flows and most dramatic viewing. Late spring to early summer offers good access with greenery, but also heavy insects. Fall provides color and cooler conditions. Winter can present a frozen falls experience but requires winter travel skills (snowmobile, skis, snowshoes) and awareness of avalanche/ice hazards where applicable.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Missinaibi Provincial Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
The falls are in a remote area; hazards include slippery rocks, unstable banks, fast or cold water, hypothermia risk, rough/unmaintained access roads, limited or no cell coverage, and seasonal insects. Bears and moose may be encountered. Logging traffic or active forestry operations can create additional hazards. Always tell someone your plans, carry navigation and emergency communication devices, and exercise caution around water and cliff edges.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 41.9 km away
26.6 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 105 years of record
0.41 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge MISSINAIBI RIVER AT MATTICE (42 km away).
Today
Low
27 m³/s
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
28 m³/s
5/10Tue
Moderate
28 m³/s
5/10Wed
Moderate
27 m³/s
5/10Thu
Moderate
26 m³/s
5/10Fri
Low
23 m³/s
5/10Sat
Low
21 m³/s
5/10Best window: Today — low flow, cloudy (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to early July, peaking in May.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest WSC stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Hearst hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Approximate coordinates: 49.2387, -83.3541. The falls are in a remote boreal area of northeastern Ontario about 35.8 miles from Hearst and 47.7 miles from Kapuskasing. Access is typically from secondary or logging roads off the nearest paved highways; expect unpaved forest roads that may be rough and seasonally impassable. There is no confirmed maintained trailhead or official approach route published; visitors should use GPS coordinates, a topographic map, and local land-use/forestry maps. Cell coverage may be intermittent; a satellite communicator or PLB is recommended for remote travel.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No formal parking lot is known. Parking may be roadside on a logging road or at an informal pullout if one exists. Be cautious to avoid blocking gates or active logging access, and park well off the driving surface.
Elevation
247 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.238716° N, -83.354082° W
Land Management
Managed by Ontario Parks
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Use the provided GPS coordinates and bring a detailed topographic map and compass. • Expect minimal or no signage, plan for off-trail navigation. • Wear sturdy, waterproof boots and bring gaiters for wet/boggy sections. • Insect repellent and head nets can be essential during black-fly season. • Tell someone your route and expected return time; consider carrying a satellite messenger. • Check local forestry offices or municipal authorities for current road conditions and any active logging or access restrictions. • Avoid approaching cliff edges or wet rocks; water currents can be stronger than they appear.
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
Nearest towns: Hearst (≈35.8 miles) and Kapuskasing (≈47.7 miles). The region contains many lakes, rivers and forested areas typical of northeastern Ontario that are popular for fishing, canoeing and backcountry camping. Specific nearby formal attractions are not well-documented for this exact coordinate; check local tourism resources for up-to-date suggestions.
Wildlife
Typical boreal species may include moose, white-tailed deer, black bear, wolves, beaver, otter, and numerous songbirds and waterfowl. Seasonal insects (black flies, mosquitoes) are common in spring and early summer. Take standard wildlife precautions.
Cities near Devil Cap Falls
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