I have done this one a few years back, and I remember loving it – especially since its located just 15 minutes east of my hometown Nipigon. I planned to wake up nice and early to start my adventure, but of course with my luck it was pouring rain. I took the extra time to pack everything up and go get my hiking buddy. Thankfully, by the time we made it to the trail head it had stopped raining and the sun was starting to come out.
Traveling east on highway 17, we turn left up Camp 81 road and the trail head was directly on the right. There is a parking area on the left side of the road, across from the trail head.
We started to walk down the trail, a nice walking path, already complaining about the bugs and soakers we instantly got (obviously I didn’t follow my own advice about bug spray and good shoes).
After about 5 minutes down the easy walking trail we came to the start of the falls trail. It was so beautiful, the trail follows Mazukama Creek with a few smaller water falls. We stopped for a few pictures of course, then it was up from there. We followed the path up, up, and up with a few ropes to help us with the more difficult areas. The more we climbed the sound of running water was getting louder. We’re almost there! Once we got to the end of the trail all we wanted to do was run in the waterfall. It took us about 45 minutes because we took our time, exploring and taking pictures.
The waterfall was absolutely stunning. The way the water mixed with the sun shining off the rocks, along with the sound of birds chirping made all the rain and bug bites totally worth it. I’ve been told that the waterfall is not always running full force. If there hasn’t been a lot of rain, it might not be running at all. But usually, there is a good, strong flow of refreshing coolness! I recently read about a study that said spending just 25 minutes in nature per day can lower your stress levels, improving your mental health. I can believe it. Nature is quite an amazing thing, it can bring a lot of beauty into our lives and can completely change our paradigm.
We took our time on the way down (it might have something to do with being tired…but you’ll never know). The sun was out and it was hot, needless to say, I was happy to see the trail head. We met a couple with the cutest puppy on our way out who were on their way fishing, and decided to stop for the hike. It was so nice to see visitors coming to use our trails. I really enjoyed this hike, and cannot wait for my next adventure!
Until next time, exploring the edge.
