Lower Goose Falls
Ontario • Sturgeon River Provincial Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.2 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Lower Goose Falls
Lower Goose Falls is a drop on the Sturgeon River in Sturgeon River Provincial Park, a remote waterway-class park on a whitewater canoe route, with Greater Sudbury the nearest city. Unlike Upper Goose Falls, it can be reached by road: a canoe trip report describes a road bridge high above the river at the falls and a large sand beach at their base. Flow is highest during spring snowmelt.
The Setting
Lower Goose Falls sits at 249 metres within Sturgeon River Provincial Park, in the foothills of Ontario.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Lower Goose Falls flows over Cobalt Group, a soft fine-grained rock layer deposited over 2.3-2.5 billion years ago. These soft rocks erode readily, allowing the stream to carve a vertical drop into the landscape.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Lower Goose Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
Paddlers carry around the falls on the left side; a trip report describes a portage of about 50 yards with no defined trail. Visitors arriving by road reach the falls from the bridge over the river.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lower Goose 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?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower Goose Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt and higher flows) for the most dramatic water, early fall for fall foliage and lower visitor numbers, and summer for easier road and trail conditions. Winter visits are possible for experienced winter hikers but bring appropriate gear and be prepared for ice, deep snow, and very limited access.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Sturgeon River Provincial Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery rocks, steep or unstable banks, strong currents near plunge pools, cold water temperatures, seasonal ice, limited or no cell coverage, and remote access which can delay emergency response. Wildlife encounters (including bears and moose) are possible, store food properly and maintain distance. Roads to the site may be rough, gated, or seasonally closed. Always check local conditions, tell someone your plan, and carry appropriate safety and navigation gear.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the Water Survey of Canada gauge on Sturgeon River, 4.3 km away, not on Lower Goose Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
4.6 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 39 years of record
4.52 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge STURGEON RIVER AT UPPER GOOSE FALLS (4 km away).
Today
Low
4.6 m³/s
5/10Tomorrow
Low
4.7 m³/s
5/10Sat
Low
5.3 m³/s
5/10Sun
Low
5.5 m³/s
5/10Mon
Low
5.5 m³/s
5/10Tue
Low
5.5 m³/s
5/10Wed
Low
5.8 m³/s
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, cloudy (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to mid June, 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 Sudbury hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Lower Goose Falls is on the Sturgeon River about 4 km downstream (straight line) of Upper Goose Falls. A bush road crosses the river on a bridge at the falls; Ontario Parks describes the river as having limited bush road access, so check current road conditions before driving. Paddlers reach it on the Sturgeon River canoe route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is likely informal (small pullout or roadside parking). Expect limited or no designated parking areas, no restrooms, and no official signage. Park safely off the travel surface and avoid blocking forestry traffic.
Elevation
249 metres above sea level
Coordinates
46.937039° N, -80.429746° W
Land Management
Managed by Ontario Parks
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Check local forest service or municipal office for road and access updates before you go. • Use a high-clearance vehicle for logging/forest roads and avoid travel after heavy rain. • Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear and use trekking poles if available, approach routes can be uneven and slippery. • Bring insect repellent (spring/summer) and layers for changing weather; water around falls is cold year-round. • Do not rely on cell service; tell someone your plans and expected return time. • Practice Leave No Trace: pack out trash and avoid disturbing vegetation and wildlife. • Exercise caution near edges and plunge pools; currents and undercut rocks can be hazardous.
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
Ranger Point
21.3 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Upper Goose Falls is about 4 km upstream on the same river, inside Sturgeon River Provincial Park. The river continues south to Lake Nipissing at the town of Sturgeon Falls.
Wildlife
Typical boreal forest species: moose, white-tailed deer, black bear, beaver, otter, various waterfowl and songbirds. Insect season includes black flies and mosquitoes in spring and early summer. Take standard wildlife precautions and store food securely.
Cities near Lower Goose Falls
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