3 Waterfalls You Can't Miss Near #theSoo

Northern Ontario is a nature lover's paradise. With so many great parks and trails, it can be hard to know what to tackle first! There's a reason why Sault Ste Marie's motto is naturally gifted, and these waterfalls are just a few of Mother Nature's gifts in the area!

Crystal Falls, Kinsmen Park

A short 15-minute drive from Sault Ste Marie's waterfront, you'll find Crystal Falls, at Kinsmen Park, in the heart of the Hiawatha Highlands Conservation Area. This area is a hotspot for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter sports. Don't be fooled, though: the park is open all year round, so whether you visit in the warm summer months or the chilly days of winter, Crystal Falls will be waiting for you.

This 18-metre waterfall winds around boulders and through crevices as it tumbles down the rock face from Crystal Creek. It's hard to see the entire waterfall all at once, so follow the boardwalk along the left side of the falls. There are a number of platforms to stop and enjoy her from different angles, though my favourite is towards the top. Make your way up to the bridge and enjoy the views from above. As it's part of the Voyageur Trail, you can either continue onwards if you're looking for a great hike or head back down if your wanderlust has been quenched.

Lower Crystal Falls, Kinsmen Park

On the opposite side of Thayer Reservoir in Kinsmen Park you’ll find the lower Crystal Falls, including the charming Minnehaha Falls. Reaching these hidden waterfalls in Sault Ste. Marie takes a bit more effort, requiring a short hike off the TLC multi-use cycling and hiking trail. But the scenic reward makes the adventure worthwhile!

Get directions to Lower Crystal Falls on Google Maps and get more information about the waterfalls at Kinsmen Park, Hiawatha Highlands here!

Chippewa Falls

Head north from Sault Ste Marie along the Trans-Canada Highway to find this next beauty. In less than an hour's drive, you'll come upon Chippewa Falls on your right side. Be sure to enjoy the views from the bridge, then head on over towards the waterfall itself where you'll find the trails. While you can climb on the rocks and get right up to the falls themselves, be very careful when doing so as the rocks can get very slippery (especially after some rain).

This area also has a second claim to fame as it marks the middle of the Trans-Canada highway! You can find a plaque commemorating it close to the parking lot, though I think the true star of the area is Chippewa Falls.

BONUS: Robertson Creek Falls and Robertson Lake Falls

You may have heard of the spectacular Robertson Cliffs with its incredible lookout views across Northern Ontario and Lake Superior but did you know that there are two beautiful waterfalls just minutes away from the main hike to the cliffs? Roberson Creeks Falls is located just a few metres below Robertson Lake road and one of the main trail heads for the Cliffs. A short hike down a steep slope takes you to these beautiful falls, which flow out of Robertson Lake. Click here for google maps location.

Robertson Cliffs falls (located here) is situated just off one of the two hiking routes to the Cliffs - the longer, less steep, yellow route to be precise. These falls, which are less than a kilometer from the trail head, feature a beautiful cascading flow of water that ends in a picturesque grove, perfect for a picnic or snack after the hike!

Whether you're an avid hiker or more of an occasional walker, these waterfalls cater to all fitness types. Each of the waterfalls is easily accessible, but those who want more of a workout will still be satisfied.

If you're looking for an epic waterfall road trip, it's possible to tackle all three in a day. Or, you can opt to separate visits and take your time enjoying each of them. Either way, you'll be in awe of their natural beauty. Now the big question... which one to visit first?

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