High Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Before you go
The falls may be on private land. Get the landowner's permission before visiting.
About High Falls
This High Falls is a small cascade on Papineau Creek near the hamlet of Maple Leaf in the Municipality of Hastings Highlands, Hastings County, Ontario. Waterfalls of Ontario flags it as possibly on private land and describes the approach as steep and heavily wooded. No public trail, parking area or height measurement is documented.
Why This Waterfall Exists
High Falls flows over hard crystalline rock laid down over 1.4-1.6 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
No maintained trail is documented. Waterfalls of Ontario rates access as moderate and describes the route as dirt, uneven rock and forest with steep slopes and thick wooded areas.
What to Expect
A natural, undeveloped waterfall setting with scenic rock formations and variable water flow. Expect limited or no facilities (no restrooms, trash bins, or maintained viewing platforms). The riverbanks and rocks around the falls can be slippery and unstable. Depending on the season, insect activity (black flies, mosquitoes) can be heavy. Cell service may be intermittent in rural/forested areas.
Accessibility
Accessibility is likely limited. The approach may include uneven, rocky, or steep terrain and is unlikely to be wheelchair-accessible. Expect few or no accessibility features such as paved paths, railings, or formal viewing platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at High Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at High Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (after ice-out) and early summer typically offer higher flows and the most dramatic waterfall appearance. Fall is also attractive for foliage colors and cooler weather but may have lower flows late in the season. Winter can present an ice-feature view, but access may be hazardous or limited, only attempt winter visits with proper gear and experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
• Rocks and riverbanks are slippery; stay back from cliff edges and avoid standing on wet rock. • Strong currents and submerged hazards make swimming or wading dangerous. • Weather can change quickly, be prepared for cold water and sudden storms. • Cell coverage may be unreliable; tell someone your plans and expected return time. • Watch for ticks and practice bear-aware measures in remote forested areas. • If trail or access signage indicates closures, obey them, seasonal or safety closures may be enforced.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the Water Survey of Canada gauge on Madawaska River, 24.6 km away, not on High Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
39.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 96 years of record
1.42 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge MADAWASKA RIVER AT PALMER RAPIDS (25 km away).
Today
Moderate
39 m³/s
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
40 m³/s
8/10Sat
Moderate
40 m³/s
8/10Sun
Moderate
40 m³/s
8/10Mon
Moderate
41 m³/s
8/10Tue
Moderate
42 m³/s
8/10Wed
Moderate
47 m³/s
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, cloudy (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to late May, peaking in April.
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 Pembroke hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The falls are on Papineau Creek near Maple Leaf in Hastings Highlands, Hastings County, not in Renfrew County. No public access point is published, so confirm land ownership before you go.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No public parking is documented. Do not park on private property or block driveways.
Elevation
324 metres above sea level
Coordinates
45.282663° N, -77.823075° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Use the provided coordinates and check recent trip reports or local resources before you go. • Wear sturdy footwear with good traction, wet rocks and roots are common hazards. • Bring insect repellent and dress in layers; weather can change rapidly. • Park well off the road and avoid blocking driveways or gates. • Leave no trace: pack out all garbage and respect private property. • If planning to visit after heavy rain or during spring melt, be cautious of high flows and stronger currents.
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Lake Saint Peter Campground
16 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Maple Leaf is the nearest community. This is a different waterfall from High Falls on the York River at Baptiste Lake, also in Hastings Highlands.
Wildlife
Typical central Ontario wildlife may be encountered, including white-tailed deer, beaver, waterfowl and black bears. Ticks and biting insects are common in warm months.
Cities near High Falls
Other waterfalls named High Falls
30 other waterfalls share this name across Canada.
-
01
Bridgeville
Current flow 124 ft³/s -
02
Copenhagen
Current flow 275 ft³/s -
03
Cranberry Lake
Current flow 705 ft³/s -
04
Grahamsville
Current flow 5 ft³/s -
05
Lake Placid
Current flow 3 ft³/s -
06
Lyon Mountain
Current flow 86 ft³/s -
07
Lyon Mountain
-
08
Philmont
Current flow 170 ft³/s -
09
Rochester
Current flow 554 ft³/s -
10
St. Regis Falls
Current flow 212 ft³/s
Writing about High Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.