Canada/Ontario: Kakabeka Falls

Continuing our Trans-Canadian adventure, the next stop is the “Niagara of the North” waterfalls, better known as Kakabeka Falls. The falls plunge 40 m (131 fr) into the Kaministiquia River, offering spectacular views. There are viewing platforms on both sides of the falls,as well as a bridge going right on top of the falls. The falls are significant geologically, as they expose ancient fossils and rock layers that are over a billion years old. Kakabeka Falls are also notable for the brownish water, which is caused by the high concentration of tannins in the water – organic compounds that leach into the river from the surrounding vegetation, particularly from decaying leaves and plant matter. These compounds give the water a tea-like color, which is more noticeable during periods of high water flow. The surrounding Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park offer great hiking trails.