Ragged Falls
Ontario • 15 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
18 m
About Ragged Falls
Ragged Falls is a long, steep cascade on the Oxtongue River that twists through a gorge as it drops about 12 to 15 m (40 to 50 ft). It is in Oxtongue River-Ragged Falls Provincial Park, a small day-use area just outside the west gate of Algonquin Provincial Park near Oxtongue Lake. It is a popular stop and can be busy in summer.
The Setting
Ragged Falls sits at 402 metres within Oxtongue River-Ragged Falls Provincial Park (Waterway Class), in the foothills of Ontario. The falls drop 15 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Ragged Falls flows over hard crystalline rock laid down over 1.4-1.8 billion years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating a 49-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.0-km out-and-back trail gains 18 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
A short trail from the parking lot climbs a hill through the forest to a lookout behind a chain-link safety fence, then continues upstream to the top of the falls. The walk is a few hundred metres each way on dirt with uneven ground and steep hills.
What to Expect
The falls drop 15 metres over hard crystalline rock. Dogs are welcome.
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 Ragged Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Ontario Parks requires dogs to be on a leash no longer than 2 metres (6 feet) at all times.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fees are required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ragged Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (late March–May) for highest flows and dramatic water; fall for foliage colors and comfortable temperatures; early morning or weekday visits reduce crowds and provide better light for photography. Winter can offer ice-formed cascades but expect icy, slippery conditions and 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 include slippery wet or icy rock surfaces, steep edges, fast currents, cold water, and variable trail conditions. Do not climb on wet ledges or enter swift water. Keep children and pets under close supervision. Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before visiting. In winter, expect ice hazards and shorter daylight hours. If unsure about conditions, contact local park or conservation authorities. Cell service may be limited, plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the Water Survey of Canada gauge on Oxtongue River, 11 km away, not on Ragged Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
3.4 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 44 years of record
3.07 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
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge OXTONGUE RIVER NEAR DWIGHT (11 km away).
Today
Low
3.4 m³/s
5/10Tomorrow
Low
3.4 m³/s
5/10Sat
Low
3.3 m³/s
5/10Sun
Low
3.4 m³/s
5/10Mon
Low
3.7 m³/s
5/10Tue
Low
3.9 m³/s
5/10Wed
Moderate
4.3 m³/s
5/10Best window: Today — low flow, cloudy (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late May, peaking in April.
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.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The park is a short distance outside the west gate of Algonquin Provincial Park, near Oxtongue Lake. Approach from the west; a marked gravel road leads to the parking lot.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
A parking permit is required and is bought at the parking meter in the lot. Washrooms (vault privies) are in the parking lot.
Elevation
402 metres above sea level
Coordinates
45.391666° N, -78.906047° W
Land Management
Managed by Ontario Parks
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Wear sturdy footwear with good traction; rocks and roots are common. • Stay on designated trails and behind railings/viewing areas where present, cliff edges and wet rocks are hazardous. • Check conditions before you go; water levels and trail access may change after storms or spring thaw. • Parking can be limited on busy days; arrive early or visit on weekdays for fewer crowds. • Leave no trace: carry out all garbage and avoid disturbing vegetation and wildlife. • In winter, bring traction devices (microspikes) and dress for cold/wet conditions.
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For this easy 1.0 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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Nearby Campground
Maple Leaf 1
9.7 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Algonquin Provincial Park's west gate and Oxtongue Lake are a short drive away.
Wildlife
Typical central Ontario wildlife may be present, including white-tailed deer, beavers, birds and small mammals. Ticks can be active in warmer months.
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Ragged Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across Canada.
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