What visitors say
The Sand River tumbles over a series of ledges and falls on its way to Lake Superior, and the Pinguisibi Trail follows it upstream from Highway 17. Pinguisibi is the Ojibwe name for the river, meaning river of fine white sand. Reviewers describe close-up views of the rapids and several waterfalls in a short distance.
The first falls are near the parking lot, but most visitors say to keep going. The trail has roots, rocks and some downed trees, yet seniors, kids and dogs manage it, and one reviewer made it to the top falls in running shoes.
Upstream are pools and small cascades where people picnic and cool off, and one family sat in the flowing water. The Sand River is known for brook trout fishing under Ontario and park rules. There are picnic tables along the way.
The rocks are sharp and slick with algae, and the current is strong, so wear water shoes and watch children and dogs closely. You need a Lake Superior Provincial Park day-use permit, which can be reserved ahead. Pack out your garbage.
Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 376 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.