Scenic Views · Fishing · Ontario
A riverside conservation area on the north edge of Thunder Bay, Ontario, where the Current River tumbles over a kilometre of rapids and rock ledges. Popular for hiking, summer swimming and skiing.
The Cascades are a stretch of rapids and small falls on the Current River, running between slabs of exposed rock at the north end of Thunder Bay. Reviewers call it a gem so close to the city, and on warm days people spread out on the rocks to sunbathe or wade into the pools.
The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority manages the area, and a small daily parking fee applies. More than five kilometres of trail wind through poplar and birch forest, and visitors like that you can take the direct route to the cascades or make a longer loop. Most describe the trails as easy to moderate and well kept, and they link to Trowbridge Falls and Centennial Park.
It suits families, dog walkers and anyone after a quick swim or a longer walk. The Current River is also a known cold-water fishery, with brook trout, walleye and pike in its pools, and it's open to angling under Ontario's regulations. In winter the trails are used for cross-country skiing.
The riverbed is rocky and uneven, so young children need close supervision and anyone with weak ankles should take care. An older review mentions broken glass on the rocks, and another found the trail signs confusing, so carry a map or check one at the trailhead.
Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 313 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.
