Highest Waterfall
Nova Scotia • Margaree River Wilderness Area
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
17.7 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 m
About Highest Waterfall
The feature at coordinates 46.5313, -60.8853 on Cape Breton Island is a remote cascade on mainland/river terrain near Baddeck and Sydney. It is commonly referred to in local sources as one of the taller waterfalls in Nova Scotia, but published, authoritative measurements and formal naming are limited. Access appears to be informal and the site may require route-finding or a short bushwhack from a nearby forest road or pullout. Visitors should treat specifics (exact height, official name, maintained trail) as unverified unless confirmed on-site or via an official park/forest service notice.
The Setting
Highest Waterfall sits at 390 metres within Margaree River Wilderness Area, in the foothills of Nova Scotia.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The hard 17.7-km out-and-back trail gains 350 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is little evidence of a consistently maintained, signed trail to this waterfall. Reported access is likely via a short, unmarked path from a nearby road or by bushwhacking through mixed Acadian forest to the stream. Terrain may include uneven ground, wet/muddy sections, exposed roots, and steep banks close to the falls. Trail conditions may be poor or change quickly after heavy rain.
What to Expect
Expect a remote, natural setting with forested surroundings and a stream or river channel. Flow volume will vary by season, highest in spring runoff and after heavy rain, lower in late summer droughts. Facilities (toilets, picnic areas, signage) are unlikely. Cell service may be intermittent. Insects (black flies, mosquitoes) are common in spring and early summer. Wildlife in the region can include deer, moose, black bear and a variety of birds; practice standard wildlife safety.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Highest Waterfall?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Highest Waterfall?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (April–June) typically provides the highest flows and most dramatic viewing after snowmelt and spring rains. Summer is good for milder temperatures and hiking, though flows may be lower. Fall offers foliage color and cooler conditions; avoid peak mosquito/black fly periods unless prepared. Winter may offer ice formations but is hazardous without winter hiking experience and proper gear.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Margaree River Wilderness Area for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery rocks, steep and unstable banks, fast-moving water especially during spring melt or heavy rain, limited cell coverage, black flies and mosquitoes in warm months, ticks, and potential wildlife encounters. Do not approach the edge of the falls or climb on wet rocks. In winter, ice cover can be treacherous, avoid walking on frozen water and be equipped for cold-weather travel. Confirm land access before crossing private property.
Current Water Conditions
9.4 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 64 years of record
1.17 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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Baddeck hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The waterfall is located on Cape Breton Island; driving distances are approximately 26.8 miles from Baddeck and 49.0 miles from Sydney by standard roads. Use the provided coordinates (46.5313, -60.8853) in a GPS device. Expect to leave a paved highway and travel short distances on secondary/forestry roads. A high-clearance vehicle may be helpful for unpaved access roads. Confirm access and land ownership before crossing private property.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No formal parking lot is known for this site. Parking may be a roadside pullout or informal clearing. Parking availability and conditions may change seasonally; park well off the roadway and avoid blocking gates or driveways.
Elevation
390 metres above sea level
Coordinates
46.531299° N, -60.885251° W
Land Management
Managed by Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Use the provided coordinates and a reliable map or GPS; do not rely on signage. • Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear, banks and rocks near the falls can be slippery. • Bring insect repellent in spring/summer. • Park well off the road; do not block gates. • Respect private property, obtain permission if a route crosses private land. • Leave no trace: carry out all trash and avoid disturbing vegetation. • Check local weather and recent trip reports if available; streams can rise rapidly after rain. • If visiting in winter, be prepared for ice and hazardous conditions; avoid the edge of frozen waterfalls.
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This challenging 17.7 km trail gains 350 m in elevation — come prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
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
Waves End Rv & Campground
11.7 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Baddeck and the Bras d'Or Lakes region, the Cabot Trail (driving and scenic viewpoints), Cape Breton Highlands National Park (northwest of Baddeck), local coastal communities and lookouts.
Wildlife
Typical Cape Breton wildlife includes white-tailed deer, moose, black bear, foxes, and a variety of bird species (raptors, waterfowl). Insects such as mosquitoes and black flies are common in warm months; ticks may also be present.
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