Whitestone Chutes
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Before you go
Water access only. The road-accessible shoreline near the falls is private, and Waterfalls of Ontario could not find a public launch on Wawashkesh Lake.
About Whitestone Chutes
Whitestone Chutes is a small, low cascade where the Whitestone River spills over a bedrock outcrop at the edge of Chutes Bay, at the east end of Wawashkesh Lake near Whitestone in Parry Sound District. It may run low or dry in summer. It can only be reached by water, and the shoreline near the falls that is served by roads is privately owned.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Whitestone Chutes flows over hard intrusive rock, primarily tonalite and granodiorite, laid down over 1.0-1.6 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
Trail Description
There is no trail. The falls is reached by paddling to Chutes Bay at the east end of Wawashkesh Lake.
What to Expect
A small, low cascade over bedrock at the lake's edge rather than a tall waterfall. Flow may be very low in summer.
Accessibility
Reached only by water. There are no facilities at the falls.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Whitestone Chutes?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Whitestone Chutes?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (high water, dramatic flows) and early summer for full chutes and cascades; late summer for lower flows and clearer pools but potentially more insects; fall for foliage and cooler weather. In winter the river may be frozen and scenic, but ice conditions can be hazardous, only winter-visit if you have experience and proper gear.
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
Wear a life jacket when paddling, and keep boats back from the cascade in high water. Wet bedrock at the falls is slippery.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the Water Survey of Canada gauge on Shawanaga River, 14.8 km away, not on Whitestone Chutes's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
0.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 19 years of record
5.61 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
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 SHAWANAGA RIVER BELOW SHAWANAGA LAKE (15 km away).
Today
Low
0.0 m³/s
5/10Tomorrow
Low
0.0 m³/s
5/10Sat
Low
0.0 m³/s
5/10Sun
Low
0.0 m³/s
5/10Mon
Low
0.0 m³/s
5/10Tue
Low
0.0 m³/s
5/10Wed
Low
0.0 m³/s
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, fog (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to early 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.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Parry Sound hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Paddle to Chutes Bay at the east end of Wawashkesh Lake near Whitestone (45.6903, -80.0081). Launch only from a public access point and do not cross private shoreline.
Get Directions on Google MapsElevation
241 metres above sea level
Coordinates
45.690748° N, -80.007741° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Plan this as a paddling trip from a public launch. Stay off private shoreline and docks near the falls.
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
Camp Kodiak
20.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
General attractions in the wider region include Georgian Bay / Parry Sound area recreational opportunities, nearby provincial parks and crown-land lakes for boating and fishing, and local canoe routes. Exact nearby named attractions should be confirmed on a regional map because signage and formal facilities near the chutes are limited.
Wildlife
Typical north-central Ontario wildlife: white-tailed deer, beaver, otter, various waterfowl, black bear (occasional), moose (in the region), and smaller mammals. Be aware of ticks in warmer months.
Cities near Whitestone Chutes
Writing about Whitestone Chutes? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.