Difficulty
Moderate
About Nighthawk Falls
Nighthawk Falls is a remote waterfall in northern Ontario, roughly midway between Marathon and Wawa along the Lake Superior corridor. The falls sit in a largely forested, rugged landscape and are best known for their natural, undeveloped setting. Signage and facilities are minimal or absent; access typically involves traveling on Highway 17 and a short walk from a roadside pullout or informal parking area. Exact published data on the height and formal trail is limited, so visitors should be prepared for primitive conditions.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Nighthawk Falls flows over hard intrusive rock, primarily granodiorite and tonalite, laid down over 2.5-3.2 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
Trail information is sparse and reports indicate an informal, possibly rough footpath from a roadside pullout. Expect uneven terrain, roots, rock steps and short scrambles near the falls. The route may be unmarked in places and can be muddy or overgrown depending on season. Follow GPS/coordinates and exercise route-finding caution.
What to Expect
A natural, undeveloped waterfall in a remote forest setting. Little to no infrastructure (no boardwalks, railings, or maintained viewpoints). Expect variable water flow depending on season: high flows in spring melt and after heavy rain, lower flow in late summer. Mosquitoes and black flies can be numerous in spring and early summer. Limited or no cell phone coverage in some areas.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Nighthawk Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Nighthawk Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring through early fall is generally best for easier access and higher water flow. Spring (snowmelt) often offers the most impressive flows; summer provides milder weather but possibly lower flows. Fall offers foliage color but shorter daylight and cooler temperatures. Winter visits are possible for viewing ice formations but require winter travel skills and awareness of icy, dangerous conditions.
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 include slippery rocks and edges, cold and fast-moving water, steep or unstable banks, limited cell phone coverage, rapidly changing weather, insects (mosquitoes/black flies/ticks), and wildlife encounters. Do not approach the edge of the falls or climb wet rocks. In winter, ice near the falls can be deceptive and extremely dangerous, avoid walking on frozen water without proper assessment and equipment. Carry sufficient supplies, and consider hiking with a partner.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 26.6 km away
5.4 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 13 years of record
3.97 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.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Marathon hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The falls are reached from Highway 17 (Trans-Canada Highway) in the general corridor between Marathon and Wawa (approximate distances: Marathon ~50 miles, Wawa ~55 miles). There may be a short unmarked access trail from a roadside pullout; expect minimal signage. Use detailed maps or GPS coordinates (48.3857, -85.6095) to locate the turnoff. Roads are paved on the main highway but side roads (if any) may be rough or seasonal.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited roadside parking or a small pullout is likely; no formal parking lot or services near the falls. Park well off the highway, obey signage, and avoid blocking the road. Overnight vehicle parking or camping at the pullout is unlikely to be permitted.
Elevation
431 metres above sea level
Coordinates
48.385670° N, -85.609526° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Tell someone your plans and expected return time; cell coverage may be unreliable. Wear sturdy, grippy footwear, rocks near the falls can be slippery. Bring insect repellent and layered clothing for rapidly changing weather. Respect private property and do not block the highway or farm/forest access roads. Pack out all trash and avoid disturbing vegetation. If you are unfamiliar with remote hiking, consider bringing a map, compass or GPS and a basic first-aid kit.
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Services and amenities are available in the nearby towns of Marathon and Wawa. The broader Lake Superior region offers coastal viewpoints, provincial/ national parks and hiking opportunities; research local attractions individually before planning an extended trip.
Wildlife
Typical northern Ontario wildlife: moose, white-tailed deer, black bears, wolves or coyotes, beavers, loons and a variety of songbirds. Take standard wildlife precautions: store food securely, keep distance from animals, and do not feed wildlife.
Cities near Nighthawk Falls
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