Upper Denison Falls
Ontario • Nimoosh Provincial Park • 30 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
10.0 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Upper Denison Falls
Upper Denison Falls is a relatively secluded cascade in the Wawa area of northern Ontario (approx. 19.2 miles from Wawa). It is accessed off secondary/forest roads and a short, unmaintained trail in typical boreal forest terrain. Flow and appearance are highly seasonal, highest in spring and after heavy rain, lower in late summer drought. There are few if any developed facilities at the site; visitors should plan for a backcountry-style visit and limited signage. Specific historical or geological details for this named fall are limited in publicly available trail guides.
The Setting
Upper Denison Falls sits at 235 metres within Nimoosh Provincial Park, in the foothills of Ontario. The falls drop 30 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Upper Denison Falls flows over hard metamorphic rock, primarily marble and iron formation, laid down over 2.5-3.2 billion years ago. The softer siltstone and mudstone erodes faster than the resistant marble and iron formation, creating a 98-foot drop where water plunges over the remaining ledge.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Lower Denison Falls (3 m) lies 0.2 kilometres to the east.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail access is likely via an unmarked, unmaintained footpath from a roadside pullout or logging-road spur. Expect uneven, rocky ground, roots, and possibly muddy sections; the final approach may involve short steep sections or natural rock steps. Trails in this area are commonly narrow and not signed. Trail conditions can change rapidly after rain or in spring thaw.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 30 metres over muddy sandstone.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Upper Denison Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Denison Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (high runoff) for strong flows; early fall for fall colours and generally stable weather. Summer provides easier access but lower flows are possible. Winter access may require specialized equipment (snowmobile, snowshoes) and is not recommended without experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Nimoosh Provincial Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Exercise caution: slippery rocks, unstable banks, and fast-water hazards near the falls. Weather in northern Ontario can change quickly, dress in layers and be prepared for wind, rain, and cooler temperatures. Cell service may be limited; bring navigation tools and emergency supplies. Be bear-aware: store food securely, make noise while hiking, and carry bear deterrents if you are trained to use them. For swimming or getting close to the water, avoid standing on wet rocks and do not underestimate currents or drop-offs.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 44 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 Wawa 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 located roughly 19.2 miles from the town of Wawa (coordinates 47.9786, -85.2045). Access will typically require driving on provincial highways and then secondary/forestry roads; some roads may be unpaved and rough. Expect limited or no official signage, use GPS coordinates and up-to-date maps. A high-clearance vehicle may be advisable for unmaintained roads. Check with local authorities or visitor centres in Wawa for current road conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking appears to be informal, roadside pullouts or a small, unmarked parking spot may be present near the trailhead. Do not block gates or private driveways; park well off the travel surface. There are likely no formal facilities or maintained parking lots.
Elevation
235 metres above sea level
Coordinates
47.978568° N, -85.204450° W
Land Management
Managed by Ontario Parks
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Tell someone your plans and expected return time; cell coverage may be unreliable. • Use a map, GPS coordinates, or an offline mapping app, trailheads may be poorly signed. • Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear with good traction; expect slippery rocks near the water. • Bring insect repellent (mosquitoes and black flies can be significant in spring and early summer). • Respect private property and forestry operations; close any gates you pass. • Pack out all trash; no visitor facilities are expected. • If unsure about road conditions, check with the Wawa visitor centre or local forestry office.
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Dog River Campsite
2.2 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Town of Wawa (services, visitor information), Lake Superior shoreline and viewpoints, local rivers and smaller falls in the region. Agawa Canyon (visitor rail excursion) and provincial parks are within the broader region though not immediately adjacent; check distances and access times.
Wildlife
Typical boreal species: black bear, moose, white-tailed deer, beaver, small mammals, and many bird species. Ticks and biting insects (black flies, mosquitoes) can be seasonal concerns.
Cities near Upper Denison Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Upper Denison Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.