Recollet Falls
Ontario • French River Provincial Park • 2 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.1 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
62 m
About Recollet Falls
Recollet Falls is a short, wide drop on the French River in French River Provincial Park, on the historic canoe route between Lake Nipissing and Georgian Bay. The portage around the falls has been used for generations by First Nations peoples, explorers, voyageurs, fur traders and missionaries. Hikers reach it on the Recollet Falls Trail, a 3 km round trip from the French River Visitor Centre off Highway 69.
The Setting
Recollet Falls sits at 182 metres within French River Provincial Park, in the foothills of Ontario. The falls drop 2 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Recollet Falls flows over hard metamorphic rock, primarily migmatite and gneiss, laid down over 1.0-1.6 billion years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating a 7-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.1-km out-and-back trail gains 62 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The Recollet Falls Trail is a linear trail of 1.5 km each way (3 km round trip) that Ontario Parks rates moderate. It starts at the French River Visitor Centre and follows the edge of the French River Gorge to the falls.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 2 metres over hard metamorphic rock. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Recollet Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Ontario Parks requires dogs to be on a leash no longer than 2 m (6 ft) and under control at all times.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Recollet Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer for strongest water flow and late fall for colorful foliage. Winter can produce icy/frozen formations but access may be difficult or hazardous (ice, snow, closed/unplowed roads).
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with French River Provincial Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards may include slippery wet rocks, steep or unstable banks, strong currents during high flow, cold water, unstable footing, limited cell coverage, and changing weather. Wear appropriate footwear, avoid cliff edges, supervise children closely, and do not attempt to swim or climb on wet rock faces. If conditions are uncertain or you are unfamiliar with remote travel, bring a companion and tell someone your route and expected return time.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the Water Survey of Canada gauge on French River, 0 km away, not on Recollet Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
108.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
7-Day Discharge Trend
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge FRENCH RIVER AT RECOLLET FALLS (0 km away).
Today
Moderate
108 m³/s
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
108 m³/s
8/10Sat
Moderate
108 m³/s
8/10Sun
Moderate
108 m³/s
8/10Mon
Moderate
108 m³/s
8/10Tue
Moderate
108 m³/s
8/10Wed
Moderate
112 m³/s
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, cloudy (trip score 8/10).
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
The French River Visitor Centre is on the west side of Highway 69 about 93 km (58 mi) north of Parry Sound. The trail leaves from the visitor centre.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Park at the French River Visitor Centre off Highway 69, where the trail begins.
Elevation
182 metres above sea level
Coordinates
46.016428° N, -80.603496° W
Land Management
Managed by Ontario Parks
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear for the rocky edge of the gorge. Call the park for river flow information from May to October if you plan to paddle.
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With 3.1 km and 62 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
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
B6
9.1 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The French River Visitor Centre at the trailhead has exhibits on the river. The rest of French River Provincial Park is a waterway park known for multi-day canoe routes toward Georgian Bay.
Wildlife
Typical central Ontario wildlife may be present: white-tailed deer, beaver, small mammals, songbirds, and potentially black bears and moose in more remote areas. Ticks and biting insects can be common in spring/summer. Use caution and store food securely.
Cities near Recollet Falls
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