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White River Suspension Bridge: A Pukaskwa National Park Highlight

Experience the thrill of crossing Pukaskwa National Park's White River Suspension Bridge, with breathtaking views of Chigamiwinigum Falls.

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The White River Suspension Bridge in Pukaskwa National Park offers a thrilling experience, swaying 23 meters above the powerful Chigamiwinigum Falls. Accessible via a challenging 18-kilometer round-trip hike along the Coastal Trail, it's a must-see for adventurous hikers seeking stunning views of Northern Ontario's wilderness.

A brief summary to White River Suspension Bridge

Local tips

  • Wear appropriate hiking footwear as the trail to the bridge is 18km roundtrip and can be rugged with exposed roots and rocks.
  • Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and bug spray for the hike.
  • Check in with park staff at the Hattie Cove Visitor Centre for current trail conditions before heading out.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as storms and fog can appear suddenly on Lake Superior.
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Getting There

  • Hiking

    The White River Suspension Bridge is accessed via the Coastal Hiking Trail from the Hattie Cove Visitor Centre in Pukaskwa National Park. The 18km (11 mile) round-trip hike is considered difficult, requiring 8-9 hours. From the visitor center, follow the signs for the Coastal Hiking Trail. The trail passes through a prescribed burn area and along Hattie Cove. It then continues through forests and wetlands before becoming more challenging as it traverses the Canadian Shield. There are no fees to access the Coastal Hiking Trail or the White River Suspension Bridge beyond the park's daily entrance fee. Daily visitor fees are applicable. Parks Canada is offering free admission from June 20 to September 2, 2025.

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Discover more about White River Suspension Bridge

Spanning 30 meters across and suspended 23 meters (75.4 feet) above the Chigamiwinigum Falls, the White River Suspension Bridge is a highlight of Pukaskwa National Park, offering an exhilarating experience for those who dare to cross. The bridge is reached via the Coastal Hiking Trail, a demanding 18km (11 mile) round trip from the Hattie Cove Visitor Centre. The hike to the bridge is a journey through Pukaskwa's diverse ecosystems, showcasing the rugged beauty of the boreal forest. The trail leads past a prescribed burn site, illustrating the forest's cycle of death and rebirth, and continues along wooden boardwalks over wetlands where you might spot local wildlife like moose and beavers. The challenging terrain includes the rocky Canadian Shield, with its uneven surfaces and potential muddy patches, demanding appropriate footwear and a sense of adventure. At Playter Harbour, roughly halfway to the bridge, hikers can rest at a sandy beach before continuing through a forest of stunted jack pines towards the bridge. The bridge itself offers stunning views of the falls and the White River as it carves its way through the landscape. This bridge is also the first leg of the 60 km Coastal Hiking Trail.

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