Pisew Falls Provincial Park, Pembina Valley Travel Guide

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Discover the raw beauty of Pisew Falls Provincial Park: Manitoba's powerful waterfall, scenic trails, and northern wilderness.

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Pisew Falls Provincial Park

Pisew Falls Provincial Park protects a dramatic waterfall where the Grass River plunges 13 meters into a rocky gorge. The park offers boardwalks, viewing platforms, a suspension bridge, and a challenging backcountry trail to Kwasitchewan Falls, Manitoba's highest waterfall. The park's name comes from the Cree word for 'lynx,' inspired by the hissing sound of the falls.

A brief summary to Pisew Falls Provincial Park

MB-6, Mystery Lake, Manitoba, CA
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pisew Falls Provincial Park.

Bring appropriate footwear. The rocks around the falls can be slippery, especially when wet.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially if hiking. Northern Manitoba weather can be unpredictable.
If hiking to Kwasitchewan Falls, be aware that it is a challenging backcountry trail recommended for experienced hikers.
Take necessary precautions for wildlife encounters, including bears.
Vehicle permits are not required to enter Manitoba Provincial Parks in 2025.

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Explore Pisew Falls Provincial Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Pisew Falls Provincial Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Pisew Falls Provincial Park is located approximately 700 km north of Winnipeg and about 74 km south of Thompson on Provincial Trunk Highway 6. From Winnipeg, the drive takes about 9.5 hours. From Thompson, the drive is approximately 45-50 minutes. The turnoff to Pisew Falls is well-marked. Once on the access road, the parking lot is a short distance away.
Public Transport

The best way to get from Winnipeg to Pisew Falls Provincial Park without a car is to take the bus to Thompson, which takes about 9 hrs 45 mins and costs $75 - $120. From Thompson, you would need to rent a car or take a taxi to the park, which is about 45 minutes south of the city. Taxi fares from Thompson to Pisew Falls can vary, so it's best to confirm the rate before departure. Car rentals are available in Thompson, with daily rates typically ranging from $50 - $100+ depending on the vehicle type and availability.

Discover more about Pisew Falls Provincial Park

Pisew Falls Provincial Park, located in northern Manitoba, is a natural wonderland centered around the impressive Pisew Falls. Here, the Grass River powerfully drops 13 meters (42.7 feet), changing direction as it jets through a gorge. The falls are easily accessible, making it a popular stop for travelers.A short boardwalk leads to observation platforms that offer stunning views of Pisew Falls. For a closer perspective, a 0.5 km trail leads to the Rotary Bridge, a suspension bridge spanning the Grass River below the falls. This bridge also marks the beginning of a rugged 22 km (round trip) hiking trail to Kwasitchewan Falls, Manitoba's highest waterfall. Backcountry campsites along the Kwasitchewan Falls trail allow hikers to extend their adventure.The park's name, 'Pisew,' comes from the local Cree language, meaning 'lynx'. The name was inspired by the hissing sound of the water cascading over the falls, which resembles the sound of the wild cat. The falls were formed by intense geological activity hundreds of thousands of years ago, creating a fault and upheaval in the landscape.The continuous flow of water creates a unique microclimate around the falls, supporting a variety of mosses, lichens, and ferns, some dating back to before the last Ice Age. In winter, a massive ice buildup forms downstream, creating a spectacle where otters are often seen sliding down the icy slopes.