Pisew Falls Provincial Park Travel Guide

Get to know the cultural and natural attractions of Pisew Falls Provincial Park. Enjoy a perfect 7-day itinerary, know about the food and drink scene, and learn tips for safety and health before visiting the park.


Introduction to Pisew Falls Provincial Park

Pisew Falls Provincial Park is a breathtaking wilderness area located in the northeastern part of Manitoba. The park covers over 3,000 square kilometers of geographic extremes from boreal forest, Precambrian Shield, and tundra. Pisew Falls is named in honor of the Cree Indian word for lynx. It’s an excellent locale for outdoor enthusiasts who love adventure.

Pisew Falls is approximately 87 kilometers east of Thompson, with its entrance on PR280 and PR481. It is open all year round, so you can plan your visit according to the best time that works for you.

List of Places to Visit in Pisew Falls Provincial Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Pawtuxatuk Historical Center

Opened in 2010, Pawtuxatuk Historical Center features exhibits about Aboriginal culture, history, art, and languages. The center’s primary mission is to foster cultural understanding and support the rebuilding of the traditional First Nations’ values.

Pisew Falls Indigenous Art Trail

The Pisew Falls Indigenous Art Trail stretches for a quarter kilometer around the visitor center. Along the trail, visitors will find various artworks, including totem poles, bronze castings of indigenous art, and signposts showcasing traditional indigenous teachings.

Natural Attractions of Pisew Falls Provincial Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pisew Falls

Pisew Falls is the park’s most popular destination. The waterfalls cascade down a 14-meter drop surrounded by stunning rock formations. There is also a 0.8-kilometer trail that takes visitors to the falls from the parking lot, allowing you to experience stunning views of the falls and forest.

Kwasitchewan Falls

Located in the eastern part of the park is Kwasitchewan Falls. The falls are 13 meters high, stretching 305 meters across the Grass River. Its surrounding areas are perfect for hiking, picnicking, and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pisew Falls Provincial Park

There are six hiking and biking trails to explore in Pisew Falls Provincial Park, each with its unique challenges and experiences.

Pisew Falls Trails

These trails offer stunning views of the Pisew Falls and of the forest. It is an easy, well-maintained trail, perfect for families who love outdoor adventures.

Kwasitchewan Falls Trail

This trail is 14 kilometers round-trip and is considered a difficult route, although you will see rewarding views of Kwasitchewan Falls and the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Pisew Falls Provincial Park: Activities and Tours

Kayaking

Rent a kayak or bring your own and enjoy the wild water in Grass River, Stevens Lake, and Paint Lake.

Wildlife Watching

Pisew Falls is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Moose, wolves, black bears, and lynx are among the park’s wildlife inhabitants. Winter is a great time of year for wolf watching.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pisew Falls Provincial Park

  • Day 1: Arrival and check-in at the park. Visit the visitor center and hike the trail to Pisew Falls.
  • Day 2: Explore the Pawtuxatuk Historical Center and drive to the Kwasitchewan Falls trailhead. Hike the trail and enjoy a picnic lunch.
  • Day 3: Day trip to Thompson, just 87 km west of Pisew Falls. Spend the day exploring the Thompson Museum and other local attractions.
  • Day 4: Experience kayaking on Grass River and enjoy a picnic lunch.
  • Day 5: Visit the Pisew Falls Indigenous Art Trail at the visitor center and learn about Aboriginal culture.
  • Day 6: Enjoy wildlife watching and hiking at Paint Lake.
  • Day 7: Departure and check-out.

Food and Drink Scene of Pisew Falls Provincial Park

Must-Try Dishes

Bannock

A traditional Aboriginal dish made with flour, baking powder, water, and salt, bannock is a staple food in Pisew Falls.

Wild Blueberry Muffins

Wild blueberries are abundant in the park, and you’ll find delicious wild blueberry muffins made from these tasty berries.

Local Beverages

Wildberry Drinks

Various wild berries found in Pisew Falls, such as raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries, are used to make delicious juices and cocktails, perfect for quenching your thirst on warm days.

Where to Stay in Pisew Falls Provincial Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There is one option for staying overnight in the park. The Pisew Falls Campground offers 35 campsites, potable water, showers, and an interpretive center. Several nearby lodges, cabins, and resorts, including Thompson and Paint Lake, offer more accommodation options.

What to Buy in Pisew Falls Provincial Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Aboriginal Crafts

There are many traditional Aboriginal crafts to buy in Pisew Falls, such as dream catchers, birch bark baskets, and moccasins.

Wild Produce

The park is abundant with wild produce, including blueberries, mushrooms, raspberries, and strawberries. You can take these home to make jams and preserves.

Local Culture and Customs of Pisew Falls Provincial Park

Pisew Falls is located on traditional Aboriginal land, so visitors are expected to respect the indigenous culture and customs. Visitors must be respectful of the environment and leave no trace.

Best Time to Visit Pisew Falls Provincial Park

The best time to visit the park is from May to September, when the trails are open, the waterfalls are active, and the weather is pleasant. During the winter, the park offers snowshoeing, skiing, and ice fishing adventures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pisew Falls Provincial Park

Do:

  • Respect the indigenous culture and customs of the First Nations people.
  • Take plenty of water and food for your trip.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather, and carry repellent and sunscreen.
  • Follow park guidelines and stay on the designated trails.

Don’t:

  • Light fires outside of the designated areas.
  • Use illegal drugs as this is not permitted in the park.
  • Litter or disturb wildlife when visiting the park.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pisew Falls Provincial Park

Pisew Falls is a remote park, so visitors must be aware of possible emergencies. Phones don’t work in many areas, and the weather can be unpredictable. To ensure your safety, bring a first aid kit, warm clothing, and a GPS locating device.

Health in Pisew Falls Provincial Park

The park doesn’t have a hospital or medical facility, so visitors must bring their medicines and supplies. It is best to consult with your doctor before visiting the park.

Getting to Pisew Falls Provincial Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pisew Falls Provincial Park

Located approximately 115 km Southeast, Thompson Regional Airport is the nearest commercial airport to Pisew Falls Provincial Park. Another option is York Factory Airfield, just north of the park, which caters to private aircraft.

Bus Stations Near Pisew Falls Provincial Park

There are no direct bus routes to Pisew Falls. However, bus service is available from Winnipeg and Thompson to the nearest town, Wabowden, just 25 km to the north of the park. From there, it is easy to rent a car at Thompson Car Rentals.

Other Options

There is no railway station close to Pisew Falls. The nearest railway station is in The Pas. From there, visitors can rent a car or hire a taxi to get to the park.

How to Get Around in Pisew Falls Provincial Park

There are no public transportation options in the park. The best way to get around the park is by foot or bicycle. If you’re driving, make sure to follow the designated trails.

Where to Go Next from Pisew Falls Provincial Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After a magical time at Pisew Falls Provincial Park, you can visit the following nearby destinations:

  • Thompson, a former mining town, and home to the Heritage North Museum, Thompson Zoo, and Thompson Spirit Way.
  • Grass River Provincial Park, known for its waterfalls, and forested riverside trails.
  • Asessippi Provincial Park, located an hour’s drive south of the park, and known for its winter activities and summer sports.

Conclusion

Pisew Falls Provincial Park is an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure, natural beauty, and a peek into the rich culture and customs of the First Nations. With stunning waterfalls and trails, diverse wildlife, outdoor activities, and delicious food and drink, Pisew Falls should be on your bucket list of beautiful places to visit.

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