Pisew Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
15 m
About Pisew Falls
Pisew Falls is a remote, high-flow waterfall on the Grass River in northern Manitoba, located within Pisew Falls Provincial Park. It is one of the province's most notable waterfalls and offers dramatic water flow in spring and scenic views year-round. The site has short, developed viewing areas and raw, rugged terrain around the river downstream.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Pisew Falls flows over hard intrusive rock, primarily tonalite, laid down over 2.5-4.0 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
The Approach
The easy 0.5-km out-and-back trail gains 15 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
A short, clearly marked trail leads from the parking area to developed viewing platforms and a boardwalk with interpretive signs. There are stairs down to a lower viewpoint and fenced/viewing areas; footing can be uneven, and some sections include wooden boardwalk or steps. The immediate trail to the main viewpoints is short (well under 1 mile round-trip) and suitable for most visitors, but exploring the riverbank beyond designated viewpoints is discouraged due to slippery rock and strong currents.
What to Expect
Expect a short, easy walk to well-established viewpoints and platforms. In spring the falls are at peak flow and can produce significant spray and noise. Summer brings warmer weather but also mosquitoes in some years. In fall the colours can be attractive. Winter transforms the falls into an ice/snow environment; access may be by snowmobile or over snow-covered roads and is more hazardous. Facilities are minimal, typically parking, signage, and basic trail infrastructure; limited or no potable water, food, or staffed services on-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 Pisew Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Pisew Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt/peak flow) for the most dramatic water volume. Summer offers reliable access and milder conditions. Fall can be quieter with good colours. Winter visits are possible but require winter travel skills and caution, ice and snow make access and footing hazardous.
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
The site is remote with limited services. Hazards include slippery wet rock, steep drop-offs, fast-flowing water, cold water temperatures, insect harassment in warm months, and limited or no cell reception. Roads to the falls can be rough and may be seasonally impassable. Always stay behind barriers, supervise children closely, avoid getting too close to the edge, and check local conditions before traveling. In winter, ice and snow create additional hazards; do not attempt to approach the falls without winter travel experience and appropriate gear.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 35.1 km away
30.6 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 53 years of record
28.92 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
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 Nelson House hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Pisew Falls is in northern Manitoba near the communities of Nelson House and Thompson (user-provided distances). Access is from provincial roads in the region; follow signs for Pisew Falls Provincial Park. The falls are in a remote area, expect long drives between services (nearest service centers are Thompson and Nelson House).
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
A small parking area/turnout serves the trailhead; parking is limited and may be gravel. Park in designated spaces only. In winter the parking area and access road may be unplowed or restricted.
Elevation
228 metres above sea level
Coordinates
55.196686° N, -98.396640° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Stay on marked trails and viewing platforms; do not climb on wet rocks near the edge. • Bring good footwear, surfaces can be wet and slippery. • Mosquitoes and blackflies can be heavy in late spring/early summer; bring repellent and long sleeves. • Cell coverage may be unreliable, carry a map, extra food/water, and emergency supplies. • If travelling in bear country, follow local bear-safety practices (store food securely, make noise on approach, carry bear deterrents where appropriate). • Check road and weather conditions before travel; remote roads may be seasonally closed or rough.
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For this easy 0.5 km trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
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
Grass River Provincial Park and associated canoe routes, Paint Lake and provincial recreation areas, the city of Thompson (services), and nearby Indigenous communities such as Nelson House. The region is known for remote wilderness recreation and river/canoe routes.
Wildlife
Typical northern Manitoba wildlife, moose, black bear, wolves, beaver, and a variety of songbirds and raptors. Exercise caution and respect wildlife; do not approach or feed animals.
Cities near Pisew Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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