Place · 1.7 mi away
Overview
Mary Ann Falls is a compact, 20‑foot cascade tucked into the highlands—pretty, photogenic, and popular for a dip when conditions allow. The big change: you can’t drive in anymore. Parks Canada permanently closed the old access road after repeated washouts and converted it into a hiking and mountain‑biking route.
What You’ll See
At the end of the route, stairs drop to a rock‑rimmed pool at the base of the falls. You can get close to the water and explore around the remnants of an iron bridge that once crossed Mary Ann Brook. It’s simple scenery done right—short on drama, long on charm.
Route and Difficulty
From the signed gate, it’s roughly 6.5 km (4 mi) one way to the base viewpoint—about 13 km (8.3 mi) return—rated “difficult” mostly for the distance. Expect a wide gravel corridor: a steady uphill for roughly the first 3 miles from the parking area, then a descent toward the falls. Many hikers find the walk straightforward but a bit monotonous; riders tend to enjoy it more.
Swimming and Safety
Swimming is commonly done in the plunge pool when flows are safe and no closures are posted. The rebuilt stairway makes getting down easier, but always assess current conditions—especially after rain, when the falls run stronger.
Wildlife
This is prime habitat for moose, black bear, and coyotes. Keep dogs leashed, make noise as you travel, give wildlife ample space, and consider carrying bear spray if you’re comfortable using it.
Best Time to Visit
Two sweet spots: early in the day to stay ahead of the crowd, and after a rainfall when the water has more punch. Summer is best for swimming. Seasonal advisories and temporary restrictions can pop up—check current park notices before you go.
Practical Notes
Facilities at the old day‑use area were removed during site remediation, so do not count on washrooms or picnic infrastructure at the falls. Pack out all waste and bring everything you need (water, snacks, layers).
Pros
- Refreshing pool for a summer dip
- Historic former Cabot Trail route that suits biking
Cons
- Long, mostly gravel approach (about 13 km return)
- Little to no on-site facilities—plan to be self-sufficient
Tips
- Consider biking the gravel approach to make the outing more fun.
- Start early and budget 4–6 hours on foot for the out-and-back.
- Bring swimwear and sandals for the plunge pool if conditions allow.
- Expect minimal facilities at the falls—use washrooms before you start.
- After rain, the falls are fuller and better for photography.
