GPS : 45.625888, -62.150848
These falls quickly became one of my favorites upon arrival. A surprising spot venturing down the hill to the water’s edge and seeing the large opening in the canyon. The main fall is broken halfway down smashing into a rock layer below spraying misty water over the pool at its base. It stands at approx 25 ft dropping straight down at a 90-degree angle. Just above the main fall is a cascaded series of the river extending for about 30 ft between the canyons walls moving about 10 ft it elevation before reaching a 45-degree angle 10-15 ft fall. This set of falls has a massive pool at their base, not overly deep but large enough for multiple people to enjoy.
Important Information – The falls offer a large swimming hole that can be enjoyed by many but I advise against jumping due to the shallow depth of the pool. There is also a small cave opening simple from eroded and weathered away rock on the right-hand side of the main falls to take in. The trail to these falls has a street sign at the entrance saying “the falls”. The trail itself is a human trafficked trail that goes for about 1.5kms one way before a steep 100m climb down the side of the canyon at about a 65-degree angle. Expect to walk on exposed tree roots, rocks, gravel, and dirt/mud. The trek down the side of the canyon is steep and requires the use of rope that is plentiful in this location. These are exposed to all weather conditions so use at your own risk. The falls are worth the journey down. This trail is located directly off Browns Mountain Rd in Antigonish County on the right-hand side just after a grassy parking patch on your left.
Directions – If you are traveling from Halifax you will need to hop on the Highway towards Truro, which is Highway 102 (Veteran’s Memorial Highway). Once reaching Truro, you will take exit 15W onto Highway 104 (Trans Canada Highway) towards Cape Breton. Driving towards Cape Breton on Highway 104 until you reach Marshy Hope which is just after French River and Barney’s River Station. Exit 29A on your left will say Browns Mountain Rd and James River, this is your exit to take. Drive up this road for approx 5kms to reach your destination. This road is not paved and is poorly kept, drive with caution.
Sharing is Caring 