Little Falls waterfall
Live Conditions · 0.9 m³/s · Much lower than usual

Little Falls

Ontario

By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026

Photo Credits (4)
1.
2.
Billy Wilson Photography CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr
3.
Billy Wilson Photography CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr
4.
Billy Wilson Photography CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

0.6 km

Trail Type

Out And Back

About Little Falls

Little Falls is a small cascade located roughly 1.5 miles (by road) from the town of Atikokan, Ontario (coordinates: 48.7516, -91.5835). It appears to be a modest, scenic waterfall on a local stream or river channel popular with local visitors for short outings and photography. Specific published guidebook details for this particular named feature are limited, so location and characteristics below are described conservatively and may vary with seasonal flow.

Why This Waterfall Exists

Little Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down over 2.5-2.8 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

Sue Falls (6 m) lies 18.7 kilometres to the southwest.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

Detailed trail descriptions from major trail guides are not readily available for this specific Little Falls. Expect an unpaved short approach from a roadside parking/pullout to the falls over uneven, possibly rocky or rooty terrain. The approach may be an unmaintained footpath rather than a developed boardwalk or trail. Use caution on wet or icy surfaces and allow extra time for navigation if signage is minimal.

What to Expect

A modest cascade rather than a large multi-tiered waterfall. Flow and appearance will vary by season, higher and more dramatic in spring runoff and after heavy rains, lower in late summer dry periods. Surroundings are typical of northwestern Ontario: mixed boreal forest, exposed rock, moss, and pockets of wetland or slow-moving water nearby. Facilities (restrooms, picnic tables) are unlikely at the immediate site.

Accessibility

The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall winter

Spring (late April–June) typically offers the highest flows and most dramatic viewing. Fall provides colorful foliage and pleasant temperatures. Summer is good for access but flows may be lower late in the season. Winter creates ice-formation scenery but brings significant hazards (slippery surfaces, deep snow, limited access).

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

Hazards may include slippery wet rocks, unstable or undercut banks, cold water and hypothermia risk, sudden changes in water level after rain, limited cell coverage, ticks and biting insects, and wildlife encounters (including bears). In winter, ice can be treacherous and approach routes may be blocked by snow. Exercise caution near edges and do not climb on wet rocks. If conditions are uncertain, choose a safer viewing distance and travel with a partner.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 5 hours ago Barely Flowing

0.9 m³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Based on 45 years of record

386.21 m

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.

About This Gauge

WSC 05PB018
0.1 km from waterfall

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the WSC gauge ATIKOKAN RIVER AT ATIKOKAN (0 km away).

High confidence
Barely Flowing right now
0.9 m³/s
→ Holding steady
08124848TodayTomorrowTueWedThuFriSat

Today

Barely Flowing

0.9 m³/s

4/10

Tomorrow

Barely Flowing

1.0 m³/s

3/10

Tue

Low

1.0 m³/s

4/10

Wed

Barely Flowing

0.9 m³/s

4/10

Thu

Barely Flowing

0.9 m³/s

3/10

Fri

Barely Flowing

0.9 m³/s

4/10

Sat

Barely Flowing

0.9 m³/s

3/10

Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, cloudy (trip score 4/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid 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 Atikokan hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

From Atikokan, follow the nearest public roads toward the coordinates 48.7516, -91.5835. The falls are near the town (approximately 1.5 miles) and are typically accessed by a short drive from town followed by a brief walk. Exact approach routes and parking locations are not consistently documented in major guide sources; use GPS coordinates and local signage. Expect rural roads that may be gravel outside of town.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is likely informal: a small pullout or roadside parking area near the trailhead or access point. There may not be a developed parking lot or facilities. If visiting, park well off the road and avoid blocking driveways or gates. Check for local signage and private property boundaries.

Elevation

396 metres above sea level

Coordinates

48.751607° N, -91.583463° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

1) Wear sturdy shoes with good traction, rocks around falls can be slippery. 2) Bring insect repellent in spring/summer; black flies and mosquitoes can be abundant. 3) Leave no trace, pack out garbage and respect private property and posted signs. 4) Expect limited or no cell service; tell someone your plans if traveling into remote areas. 5) Check local road conditions after heavy rain or snow, gravel roads may be rough. 6) If bears are known in the area, store food securely and follow local wildlife guidance.

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Town of Atikokan amenities (restaurants, fuel, lodging), Quetico Provincial Park and many local canoe routes and lakes in the region. Local hiking and fishing opportunities are common around Atikokan.

Wildlife

Black bears, moose, white-tailed deer, beaver, otter, various waterfowl, and smaller mammals. Insects such as black flies, mosquitoes, and ticks are common in warmer months.

Cities near Little Falls

Nearby Waterfalls

57.7 km away
In Quetico Provincial Park
Ontario
Unknown
Unknown Unknown

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