Ontario Investing in Upgrades at Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park
New viewing platform and boardwalk will improve visitor experience and boost local tourism in Northern Ontario
KAKABEKA FALLS — The Ontario government is investing $389,000 in infrastructure improvements at Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park. A new and improved viewing platform and boardwalk will offer visitors unparalleled views of the province’s second tallest waterfall, the historic Kaministiquia River and gorge below.
“Our world-class system of provincial parks is one of Ontario’s greatest strengths, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike,” said David Piccini, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “This investment in Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park will help enhance the visitor experience and encourage more Ontarians to visit and explore this beautiful park in Northern Ontario — a truly must-see natural wonder.”
Visitors can enjoy the view of Kakabeka Falls which has a drop of 40 metres (130 feet) from one of the eight viewing platforms surrounding the falls, offering an accessible viewing area for visitors of all ages and abilities. The platform also includes interpretive signage, providing the history and ecology of the park, as well as the important role the waterfall plays in the local ecosystem.
Kakabeka Falls is one of the province’s most popular natural attractions, drawing on average 200,000 visitors annually to the park from around the world to witness the power and beauty of the falls. The park also offers cross-country skiing, hiking trails and camping.
“Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park is a unique Northern Ontario attraction that brings tourists from around the world and boosts the local economy – that is why ensuring a once-in-a-lifetime experience for every visitor is so important,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “By upgrading the viewing platform, we are able to offer visitors an immersive, made-in-Ontario experience for all.”
“By making investments in Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, we are ensuring an enhanced experience for visitors while supporting the North’s diverse tourism sector,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development and Minister of Indigenous Affairs. “Northern Ontario presents a unique opportunity for tourism, and I am confident that the 200,000 guests who visit the park annually will enjoy the new and improved space to the fullest.”
Ongoing investment in Ontario Parks infrastructure is another way the government is expanding recreational opportunities for people and families, boosting local tourism and strengthening the protection of local wildlife and the environment. This project is part of a $41.7 million investment over two years to upgrade and maintain Ontario Parks infrastructure to continue to ensure a modern and enjoyable parks experience.
Quick Facts
- Today’s announcement aligns with the celebration of Tourism Week in Canada, which runs from April 24-30, 2023.
- Located 30 minutes west of Thunder Bay, Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park is a four-season park that protects more than 1,235 acres (500 hectares), including the 40-metre-high falls.
- Since 2018, the province has invested $4.8 million to make important infrastructure improvements at Ontario Parks in Northern Ontario.
- With more than 12 million visits annually, Ontario Parks is the largest provider of outdoor recreational opportunities in the province.
- Every dollar spent at Ontario Parks, from annual passes to merchandise, is re-invested into Ontario Parks, helping to create a better park experience for visitors, improve services, programs and amenities and protect over 630 provincial parks and conservation reserves across the province.
Full news release: https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1002982/ontario-investing-in-upgrades-at-kakabeka-falls-provincial-park