Pisew Falls Provincial Park is one of Manitoba's most breathtaking natural destinations, located near Thompson. The park’s highlight is Pisew Falls, the second-highest waterfall in the province. This stunning 13-meter (43-foot) cascade on the Grass River is surrounded by lush boreal forest, offering a picturesque experience.

Best Things to Do at Pisew Falls Provincial Park

1. Viewing the Falls

There are two official viewpoints of Pisew Falls:

• First viewpoint: A short and easy 5-minute walk from the parking lot leads to two boardwalks. These viewing platforms offer a wide, unobstructed view of the surging waters.

• Second viewpoint: A 0.5 km (0.3-mile) walk from the parking lot takes you across the Rotary suspension bridge over the Grass River. Follow the Pisew Falls trail signs to reach this viewpoint at the top of the falls. Be cautious—there are no protective railings, and the rocks are extremely slippery. Do not attempt to climb down to the falls.

1. Hiking the Kwasitchewan Falls Trail

For more adventure, tackle the Kwasitchewan Falls Trail, a challenging 22+ km trek through dense forest leading to Manitoba’s tallest waterfall. This hike is best suited for experienced hikers and is ideally done over 2 days.

Our attempt at this hike was unsuccessful due to:

• Not downloading an offline map—we got lost 1 km from the falls and had to turn back.

• Fatigue from walking long distances the day before.

• Inadequate footwear—the muddy trail required proper hiking shoes.

• A late start—we began the hike at 11 AM instead of 6 AM at the latest.

We took the Grass River route, which is said to be shorter than the Phillips Lake route, but it still felt long. If you plan to hike, come well-prepared, carry bear spray, and stay alert for wildlife, including wolves.

1. Picnicking

Pisew Falls Provincial Park also offers excellent spots for a picnic.

Where to Stay when visiting Pisew Falls

1. Camping: Basic campsites are available at Pisew Falls Provincial Park, but reservations are required on the Manitoba Parks Website.

2. Lodges & Hotels:

• Sasagiu Rapids Lodge (5 mins from Pisew Falls Provincial Park)

• Paint Lake Lodge (36 mins away from Pisew Falls Provincial Park)

• Hotels in Thompson (50 mins away from Pisew Falls Provincial Park): We recommend Super 8 by Wyndham and Best Western Thompson (hotels where we stayed at) for their comfort and amenities.

Where to Eat when visiting Pisew Falls

• Sasagiu Rapids Lodge (7 mins from Pisew Falls Provincial Park) offers an onsite dining spot.

• Paint Lake Lodge (36 mins away from Pisew Falls Provincial Park) offers an onsite dining spot

• Thompson (50 mins away from Pisew Falls Provincial Park) has various restaurants and grocery stores.