About Manitou Falls
Manitou Falls is a small, remote waterfall located in northwestern Ontario roughly 38 miles (by road) from Red Lake (coordinates: 50.5831, -93.4546). The fall is in a boreal forest setting and is likely fed by local creeks or the Manitou watershed. Visitor information for this specific waterfall is limited; descriptions below use conservative language and note areas of uncertainty. Expect a rugged, natural setting rather than developed park infrastructure.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Manitou Falls flows over hard crystalline rock laid down over 2.5-2.8 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
Specific trail descriptions are not widely published for this waterfall. Visitors should expect a short to moderate bushwhack or primitive footpath from the nearest parking/roadside area to the falls. Terrain is typical boreal forest: roots, rocks, wet/mossy ground, and potentially steep banks near the water. Trails (if present) may be indistinct, and route-finding skills are recommended.
What to Expect
Expect a natural, undeveloped waterfall in a boreal forest landscape. Water flow may be highly seasonal, higher in spring snowmelt and after heavy rains, lower in late summer and drought. The immediate area may have exposed bedrock, slippery rocks and moss, and limited viewpoints. There will likely be limited or no facilities, signage, or maintained boardwalks.
Accessibility
The site is likely not wheelchair accessible and may require uneven, unmaintained trails or short off-trail travel. Expect natural obstacles such as roots, rocks, and steep banks.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Manitou Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Manitou Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (peak runoff) for the strongest flow and dramatic water volume; late summer and early fall for more stable weather and fall color. Winter visits are possible for frozen-waterfall photography but increase risk (ice, deep snow, extremely cold conditions) and require winter travel skills/equipment.
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
Primary hazards: slippery bedrock and stream banks, cold water and hidden currents, remote location with limited or no cell coverage, variable road conditions, and wildlife encounters (including black bears). Ice in winter can be unstable. Visitors should carry navigation tools, sufficient supplies, a first-aid kit, and inform someone of travel plans. If uncertain about route or safety, use local outfitters or park/forest service guidance.
Current Water Conditions
16.9 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 55 years of record
28.87 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 Red Lake hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Access is by gravel/forest roads from Red Lake. The waterfall is in a remote area; roads may be rough and seasonal and 4x4 or high-clearance vehicles may be advisable. Use detailed topographic maps or local Forest/Fish & Wildlife offices for final approach. Cell service may be intermittent or absent.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There may be informal or limited roadside parking near the trailhead. Do not assume an established parking lot, signage, or amenities (toilets, trash receptacles) are present. Park off the road clear of traffic and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Elevation
337 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.583109° N, -93.454594° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Treat the area as remote: bring navigation (map + compass/GPS) and tell someone your plans. 2) Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear with good traction, rocks and banks are slippery. 3) Bug spray and long sleeves are recommended in summer (blackflies/mosquitoes). 4) Be bear aware, carry bear deterrent appropriate to the region and know how to use it. 5) Pack out all trash and minimize impact on fragile shoreline vegetation. 6) Avoid getting too close to edges; wet bedrock can be very slippery. 7) Check local road conditions before travel; some roads may be seasonally impassable.
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
Gold Pines Fishing Camp on Lac Seul
20.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Town of Red Lake (services, lodging), fishing and canoeing opportunities in the Red Lake/Manitou watershed, other remote lakes and backcountry recreation. Specific nearby developed parks or marked trails are not documented for this waterfall.
Wildlife
Typical boreal wildlife may be present: black bear, moose, white-tailed deer, beavers, otters, and a variety of waterfowl and songbirds. Always store food securely and follow wildlife safety guidelines.
Cities near Manitou Falls
Other waterfalls named Manitou Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across Canada.
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