Hike the Palisades of the Pijitawabik

From Nipigon, 120km east of Thunder Bay, turn north onto Highway 11 and travel approximately 40km. Turn at the blue and white highway sign leading down a gravel road to get to the trailhead. The parking lot is approximately 200m from the highway. For families or those not up for the challenging hike, continue to the second turnoff, marked by a smaller blue and yellow sign, and enjoy the view of the Cascade Falls from the road or scramble up the rocks to stand in the mist and hear the rush of the water up close. 

The hike itself begins with a sign cautioning that trail users should be physically fit as the hike is quite steep, rugged, and has plenty of natural hazards such as exposed roots and rocks. 

The trail is very straightforward and easy to follow as it is well-signed with orange markers nailed to trees. Climb 150m over the first 1.6km to the summit or the Palisades and continue on to the 4 lookout points to take in the spectacular views of Northwest Ontario. At the fork, continue left to get to the Cascade Falls or go right to visit Browse Lake.The trail has been maintained by the Ministry of Natural Resources who have constructed bridges and stairs where necessary to prevent erosion and human impact. 

Because of the geology of the area and the natural crags and cliffs, it is very popular with rock climbers and ice climbers. Check out the Alpine Club of Canada- Thunder Bay for more info: ACCTBay.