Exploring Duchesnay Falls
North Bay, Ontario
Is Duchesnay Falls The Best Waterfall For Photography In Ontario?
I’d visited Duchesnay Falls a few years ago after discovering it on a great website I use to find new places to visit: https://waterfallsofontario.com/. I had a fantastic time walking up and down both sides of the rapidly flowing river, and was so impressed I made a promise to myself to return to explore the trails in the vicinity of the falls.
So here I am, two years later, back at Duchesnay Falls to do some hiking this time, and explore a little further than the river banks. Spoiler alert. That didn’t happen!
From the parking lot, I entered the woods and started to make my way along the east side of the creek. The trail is quite steep in places, with loose rocks and sandy soil. It was a bit of scramble, and a few people ahead of me decided to turn back as it was too tricky for them to negotiate. Once you’re past this tricky spot, the rest of the trail is relatively easy going, although good supportive footwear is advisable to help deal with the many tree roots across the trail. You soon come to an old metal bridge, and can cross it, to work your way back down on the west side of the river, or keep north where you can explore a network of short trails, some that lead you to Lake Nipissing lookout.
I crossed the bridge and started photographing on the west side of the river, and a couple of hours just flew by.
There are multiple cascades, with up to 15ft drops. In many spots you can walk out into the middle of the river to photograph, and the composition options are virtually limitless here. Even with flat overcast lighting, it was fantastic just to be there and enjoy the experience.
I certainly need to explore more waterfalls in Ontario, but have to say, this one is the best I’ve found so far.
Summer isn’t the optimal time to visit for photography, I really need to return in the autumn. Lot’s more colour, and no bugs. A good combination I’d say.
So, is Duchesnay Falls the best waterfall in Ontario? I think it is, compared to the places I’ve visited so far. But I still have a few more falls to visit, so I my change my mind. Regardless, Duchesnay Falls has it all for those looking to enjoy a short walk, experience lots of impressive views, and get some great photos!
Where To Stay
The wonderful thing about Duchesnay Falls is it’s just minutes from North Bay, so early starts for the more serious photographers are a breeze. The hotel I stayed at was The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriot North Bay. A new very clean and modern hotel, which was very enjoyable. An impressive hot buffet breakfast was just the ticket to set me up before I headed off for my waterfall exploration.
There are a good choice of similar hotels in the vicinity, all reasonably priced.
What To Take
For photography, I always recommend having a circular polariser on your lens to cut back the reflections on the water and foliage.
A wide angle lens will come in very useful too.
Bug spray is a good idea, the mosquitoes were relentless. I recommend wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants for this kind of walk.
Good supportive footwear is wise, as the terrain can be rough in places.
A bottle of water in your daypack is a smart idea if you intend to explore for more than a few hours.
Duchesnay Falls Location:
Latitude 46°20’4.14"N
Longitude 79°30’34.69"W
Watch my YouTube video of this exploration of Duchesnay Falls waterfall: