High Falls
Ontario • Algonquin Provincial Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.3 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
About High Falls
High Falls is a small cascade on the Little Bonnechere River in the southeast corner of Algonquin Provincial Park. It is reached by the High Falls Trail off Turner's/Basin Depot Road, near Bonnechere Provincial Park. The trail follows the old Bonnechere Road and is 4.4 km (2.7 mi) to the falls and back.
The Setting
High Falls sits at 242 metres within Algonquin Provincial Park, in the foothills of Ontario.
Why This Waterfall Exists
High Falls flows over hard crystalline rock, primarily gneiss, laid down over 1.0-1.6 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
The High Falls Trail is 4.4 km (2.7 mi) round trip along the old Bonnechere Road, with some rough sections as you get closer to the river. The trailhead is marked by a blue trail sign on the left side of Turner's/Basin Depot Road, a couple of kilometres past the Basin Depot cabin.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at High Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Ontario Parks requires dogs to be on a leash no longer than 2 m (6 ft) at all times, including in the backcountry.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fees are required
🏊 Is There Swimming at High Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Early spring (snowmelt and higher flows) and late spring offer the most dramatic water volumes. Late spring to early fall provides easier trail conditions and warmer weather. Fall also offers attractive foliage. Winter can produce ice formations but access and safety are more challenging; 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 Algonquin Provincial Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards can include slippery and unstable rocks, strong currents, cold water, sudden changes in water level after rain, steep or unprotected edges, poor or intermittent cell service, and limited emergency access. Wear appropriate footwear, stay a safe distance from edges, do not climb on wet rocks, and avoid swimming unless conditions and local signage explicitly indicate it is safe. If in doubt, err on the side of caution.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the Water Survey of Canada gauge on Petawawa River, 44.5 km away, not on High Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
16.9 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 110 years of record
2.37 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 PETAWAWA RIVER NEAR PETAWAWA (45 km away).
Today
Moderate
17 m³/s
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
17 m³/s
6/10Sat
Moderate
17 m³/s
6/10Sun
Moderate
17 m³/s
6/10Mon
Moderate
18 m³/s
6/10Tue
Moderate
18 m³/s
6/10Wed
Moderate
21 m³/s
5/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, cloudy (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to early July, 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
Take Turner's/Basin Depot Road, which leaves Highway 58 just east of the Bonnechere Provincial Park main gate. The Basin Depot cabin is at the 21.3 km marker; the High Falls trailhead is a couple of kilometres farther, on the left, marked by a blue sign.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Park at the trailhead off Turner's/Basin Depot Road. An Algonquin day-use vehicle permit is required and can be bought at the Bonnechere Provincial Park store.
Elevation
242 metres above sea level
Coordinates
45.708875° N, -77.827724° W
Land Management
Managed by Ontario Parks
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Use the GPS coordinates and confirm local road conditions before you go. 2) Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear with good traction; bring a walking stick if you expect rocky or steep approaches. 3) Do not venture onto wet rocks near the edge; slippery surfaces and strong currents are common hazards. 4) Respect private property and posted signs, some access routes may cross private lands. 5) Leave no trace: pack out all trash and avoid disturbing vegetation. 6) Check local recent trip reports if available for current conditions.
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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Nearby Campground
Basin Lake Access Point (#19)
3.7 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The historic Basin Depot cabin and other short trails along Turner's/Basin Depot Road. Bonnechere Provincial Park is at the start of the road.
Wildlife
Typical regional wildlife may include white-tailed deer, small mammals, waterfowl and songbirds, and occasionally black bears or moose. Ticks and mosquitoes can be prevalent in warmer months. Always store food securely and be bear-aware in areas where bears are present.
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
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