Whitemouth Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.3 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
3 m
About Whitemouth Falls
Whitemouth Falls is a compact set of falls/rapids on the Whitemouth River at or near the small provincial park/day-use area. The site typically consists of rocky cascades and a short viewing area; flows are highest in spring and after heavy rain. Exact vertical drop is small compared with large alpine waterfalls and the feature is best appreciated as a river cascade/rapids rather than a single high plunge. Facilities and formal viewpoints may be limited, visitors should expect a short walk from a small parking area to reach the river edge.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Whitemouth Falls flows over hard intrusive rock, primarily tonalite and gneiss, 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 0.3-km out-and-back trail gains 3 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
From the small parking/day-use area there is a short, mostly flat path to a viewing/river access point. The trail may be natural tread (packed dirt/rock) and can be uneven and slippery when wet. Expect a brief out-and-back hike that takes most visitors less than 30 minutes round-trip. There may be short rocky sections near the river; there is not typically a long maintained boardwalk.
What to Expect
Expect a modest river cascade/rapids rather than a tall vertical plunge. Spring melt and heavy rains produce the most impressive flows. Terrain is rocky near the water; banks can be steep or unstable in places. Facilities are minimal, picnic tables, signage, and a small parking area are the most common amenities. Cell coverage may be limited in some spots.
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 Whitemouth Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Whitemouth Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt) for the highest water flows and dramatic appearance; summer for easier access and warmer weather; fall for shoreline colors. Winter can offer ice formations and quiet conditions but access may be affected by snow/ice.
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 riverbanks, strong currents, cold water temperatures, and unstable edges near the river. Do not climb on wet rocks; keep a safe distance from fast water. Watch for insects in warmer months and be prepared for variable weather. Cell coverage may be limited, carry a map and tell someone your itinerary. If unsure about conditions, delay or avoid close river access.
Current Water Conditions
9.7 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 84 years of record
268.35 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.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Selkirk hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Coordinates: 50.1202, -96.0351. The falls are located in eastern Manitoba, roughly 37 miles (about 60 km) from Selkirk and about 66 miles (about 106 km) from Gimli by road. Access is by local/provincial roads; visitors typically drive to the small Whitemouth Falls day-use area or provincial park access point and walk a short distance to the river. Check Manitoba Parks or local municipal maps for the most direct driving route and any seasonal road advisories before you go.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is typically a small day-use/parking area near the falls; parking may be limited and unpaved. Facilities (toilets, picnic shelters) may be minimal or seasonal. Expect little to no lighting and limited overnight parking, verify with provincial park information if planning an extended stay.
Elevation
259 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.120155° N, -96.035090° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Wear sturdy footwear with good traction, rocks near the falls are slippery. • Check river conditions before visiting; flows can be strong and deceiving. • Bring insect repellent in spring and summer; mosquitoes can be heavy. • Pack out what you pack in, facilities may be minimal. • If planning a winter visit, dress for cold, icy conditions and check road access. • Cell service may be spotty; tell someone your plans if you’re travelling to a remote area.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
For this easy 0.3 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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Otter Falls
15.8 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby communities and attractions include the town/area of Whitemouth and larger regional destinations such as Selkirk and communities along Lake Winnipeg (Gimli is farther northwest). There are other provincial and regional parks in eastern Manitoba; consult local tourism resources for options such as lakes, trails, and wildlife viewing areas.
Wildlife
Typical eastern Manitoba wildlife may include waterfowl, beavers, white-tailed deer, and small mammals. Black bears and moose can occur in the region, be prepared for wildlife encounters and store food appropriately. Mosquitoes and black flies can be numerous in spring and summer.
Cities near Whitemouth Falls
Writing about Whitemouth Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.