About Ford Falls
Ford Falls is a remote waterfall feature in the Northwest Territories located at the provided coordinates. There is very limited published trail and facility information for this specific site. The waterfall is likely on a river or stream in a largely undeveloped, boreal/taiga landscape and may experience large seasonal changes in flow (higher in spring melt, lower in late summer). Access and conditions are typically primitive and may require overland travel, boating, or air access depending on location and season.
The Setting
Ford Falls sits at 210 metres within Thelon Wildlife Sanctuary, in the foothills of Northwest Territories.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Ford Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down over 1.0-2.5 billion years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating the step that forms the waterfall.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Macdonald Falls (18 m) lies 2.3 kilometres to the northwest. Also nearby: Helen Falls (8 m, 6.4 km).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
No verified maintained trail description is available for Ford Falls. Visitors should expect unmarked routes, cross-country travel over uneven terrain, and potential bushwhacking. Navigation likely requires map/GPS skills and route-finding across muskeg, rocky ground, or riverbanks. Approach may involve river travel or travel on seasonal/secondary roads.
What to Expect
Expect a remote, undeveloped natural setting with no visitor facilities (no restrooms, potable water, or signage). Water flow is seasonal, higher during spring melt and after heavy rain, lower in late summer. In winter the falls may be partially or fully frozen and areas can be extremely slippery and hazardous. Wildlife (including large mammals and territorial species) and biting insects (mosquitoes, blackflies) are commonly present in summer. Cell coverage may be absent or unreliable.
Accessibility
Accessibility is likely limited. There is no indication of developed accessible trails or facilities. Terrain may be uneven, boggy, and steep in places; not suitable for visitors requiring ADA-style accessibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ford Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ford Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring and early summer are often best for viewing higher flows from snowmelt. Summer provides the easiest access conditions (long daylight, ice-free water), while fall offers lower flows and fall color but cooler weather. Winter can offer dramatic frozen scenery but increases objective hazards and access difficulty.
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 location: expect limited or no cell service, no emergency services nearby, and potentially rapid weather changes. Hazards include slippery rocks near the falls, strong currents, cold water, seasonal ice, biting insects, and encounters with large wildlife. Carry navigation tools, a first-aid kit, and emergency communication (satellite messenger/PLB). If you are inexperienced in remote travel, consider hiring local guides or traveling with experienced partners. Check local authorities or community contacts for any advisories before travel.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 25.8 km away
70.1 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 31 years of record
5.39 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average 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.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
This is a remote location in the Northwest Territories. Reaching the falls may require long gravel road travel, cross-country hiking, a boat, or floatplane depending on nearby water access and the season. Do not expect marked trailheads or public transit. Confirm route and permissions with local land managers or community authorities before traveling.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is likely limited to no formal parking or developed trailhead. Expect primitive pullouts or informal parking where access is possible; a high-clearance vehicle or alternate transport (boat/floatplane) may be necessary.
Elevation
210 metres above sea level
Coordinates
63.714828° N, -104.711861° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of the Northwest Territories
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Plan for a self-supported trip: bring navigation tools (paper maps + GPS), extra food, water treatment, and fuel. 2) Tell someone your plan and expected return time. 3) Prepare for insects, bring repellent and head nets in summer. 4) Use appropriate footwear for wet, rocky, and slippery terrain. 5) Carry bear safety gear and know how to use it; store food securely. 6) Check weather, river conditions, and local advisories before travel. 7) Respect private property and Indigenous lands, obtain permission where required.
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
Specific nearby named attractions are not documented in widely available sources for this coordinate. The general region contains many lakes, rivers, and boreal wilderness areas that offer fishing, canoeing, and backcountry exploration. Check regional maps for nearby lakes or river systems.
Wildlife
Typical boreal and subarctic wildlife may be present, including moose, black bears, wolves, lynx, and a variety of birds (raptors, waterfowl). In summer expect abundant mosquitoes and blackflies. Always store food securely and follow wildlife safety practices.
Nearby Waterfalls
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