Devil Shoepack Falls
Ontario • Missinaibi Provincial Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
About Devil Shoepack Falls
Devil Shoepack Falls is a remote, forested waterfall in the Cochrane District of northern Ontario (coordinates 49.2464, -83.3572). It lies in boreal forest country roughly 35 miles from Hearst and 47 miles from Kapuskasing. The falls are in a rural, sparsely developed area and are likely reached by secondary or logging roads followed by a short unmaintained approach. Visitor reports indicate a natural, undeveloped setting rather than a formal park site. Specific measured height and official channel information are not widely published.
The Setting
Devil Shoepack Falls sits at 245 metres within Missinaibi Provincial Park, in the foothills of Ontario.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Devil Shoepack 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 does not appear to be a maintained or heavily developed trail to Devil Shoepack Falls. Approach likely involves following an unmarked footpath, old logging road, or bushwhacking a short distance through boreal forest and uneven terrain. Expect roots, rocks, and possibly wet or marshy ground near the stream. Trails, if present, may be indistinct and not maintained; route-finding skills and a GPS are recommended.
What to Expect
A natural, undeveloped waterfall in a remote forest setting. Water flow will be highest in spring melt and after heavy rains, lower in late summer. There may be slippery rocks, steep banks near the stream, and no safety infrastructure (railings, stairs). Expect insects (black flies, mosquitoes) in warmer months and snow/ice in winter. Limited or no cell service, few if any other visitors some days.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible. Approach likely involves unmaintained, uneven terrain with roots, rocks, and potentially steep or slippery sections.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Devil Shoepack Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Devil Shoepack Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (high water) and early summer for the strongest flows. Fall offers colorful foliage and cooler temperatures. Winter may offer ice features but access can be difficult and hazardous, only attempt in winter with proper equipment and experience.
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
Hazards may include: unstable or slippery rock near the falls, steep banks, fast-moving water, cold water temperatures, variable road conditions (mud, washouts), limited cell service, and seasonal insects. There may be active logging in the area, obey signs and stay out of work zones. Do not approach the edge of the falls or attempt risky climbs; supervise children closely. If uncertain of conditions, err on the side of caution and do not attempt the approach alone.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 41.1 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 (41 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
From Hearst or Kapuskasing travel on the regional highway network toward the coordinates 49.2464, -83.3572. The final access is likely via gravel or logging roads; a high-clearance vehicle may be required. Expect little to no signage. Use a GPS with the provided coordinates and verify local road conditions before travel. Cell service may be intermittent; download maps for offline use.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No formal parking lot is known. Parking is likely informal at the end of a logging road or pullout; park well off the road and avoid blocking gates. If you encounter posted private property signs, respect them. Pack out all trash.
Elevation
245 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.246387° N, -83.357194° W
Land Management
Managed by Ontario Parks
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Use high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle for gravel/logging roads; check road conditions before leaving. 2) Bring a GPS and a paper map; do not rely solely on cell service. 3) Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear and expect wet, uneven terrain. 4) Carry insect repellent in spring/summer and dress in layers. 5) Tell someone your route and expected return time. 6) Respect private property and logging operations; close gates behind you. 7) Leave no trace and do not attempt to climb wet rocks near the falls.
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 are Hearst (~35 miles) and Kapuskasing (~47 miles). Northern Ontario offers other outdoors opportunities such as provincial parks, canoe routes, and fishing spots; verify specific nearby attractions locally.
Wildlife
Typical boreal wildlife: black bear, moose, white-tailed deer, beaver, wolves/coyotes, and many bird species. Insects (black flies and mosquitoes) can be numerous in spring and summer. Practice wildlife safety and store food appropriately.
Cities near Devil Shoepack Falls
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