Fernberg Road CR 18
A stunning waterfall accessible via a short, rugged hike along a historic portage route. Experience nature's power and beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Maximum waterfall flow
Fernberg Road CR 18
Best Time
Maximum waterfall flow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning waterfall accessible via a short, rugged hike along a historic portage route. Experience nature's power and beauty.
"Wow, Kawishiwi Falls blew me away! The hike was short and easy, but the view at the end was incredible."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Roots and rocks make the trail tricky. Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Go After Rain for Power
The falls are most impressive when the Kawishiwi River is flowing strongly. Visit after a good rainfall for the best show. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kawishiwi Falls
End of the trail
A spectacular, roaring waterfall with a short, rewarding hike. Incredible views and a rich history.
Historic Portage Route
The trail itself
Hike along an old portage route, imagining the echoes of voyageurs and their journeys.
Rocky Vantage Points
Near the falls
Climb amongst the rocks for unique perspectives and to get closer to the powerful water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Best Time for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Looking for a waterfall/swimming hole...
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Roots and rocks make the trail tricky. Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Go After Rain for Power
The falls are most impressive when the Kawishiwi River is flowing strongly. Visit after a good rainfall for the best show. :droplet:
Good day trip options Ely side?
Lodge Trip Recommendations
📸 Capture the Roar
Bring your camera! The views are incredible, especially from the rocky areas near the water. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Trail is Well-Marked
The .8-mile round trip trail is clearly marked, making it easy to navigate even for beginners. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Roots and rocks make the trail tricky. Wear hiking boots or sturdy shoes for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Go After Rain for Power
The falls are most impressive when the Kawishiwi River is flowing strongly. Visit after a good rainfall for the best show. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Roar
Bring your camera! The views are incredible, especially from the rocky areas near the water. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Trail is Well-Marked
The .8-mile round trip trail is clearly marked, making it easy to navigate even for beginners. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kawishiwi Falls for its stunning beauty and the rewarding nature of the short hike. Many are surprised by the waterfall's power and the scenic views available from the rocky areas. While the trail is described as moderately challenging due to roots and rocks, most agree it's well worth the effort for the spectacular payoff.
"What a great waterfall! I loved the hike back on the fall leaf lined trail! It’s very well marked and the .8 mile marked for round trip on the map is correct. Definitely swing in if you’re in the area to see this beautiful water fall!!"
Denai C
"A short trail with a bit of attitude — roots snake across the path, rocks lie in wait, and your toes will need their wits about them. Much of the way follows an old portage route, and you can almost hear the echoes of paddles and footsteps from long ago. But then… the trees part, the air cools, and the falls appear — roaring, shimmering, worth every step."
Teri Haselius
"My wife and I visited Kiwishiwi Falls and were pleasantly surprised by the spectacular view of the falls. The trail is a moderately difficult walk, with rocks, tree roots and some inclines. There are great vantage points in which to view the falls, which were raging when we visited them. Kiwishiwi River falls is rich in history."
Merlin Petron
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kawishiwi Falls is located off the Fernberg Road (CR 18) near Ely, Minnesota. The trailhead is well-marked and accessible by car. It's a popular stop for those exploring the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Fernberg Road (CR 18) is a paved county road, making it easily accessible for most vehicles. It's a scenic drive leading to various entry points for outdoor adventures.
The closest town to Kawishiwi Falls is Ely, Minnesota. Ely is a gateway to the Boundary Waters and offers amenities like lodging, dining, and outdoor gear outfitters.
While the Kawishiwi River flows through the area, the most common access to Kawishiwi Falls is via the hiking trail from Fernberg Road. Paddling directly to the falls might be challenging due to rapids or portages.
Fernberg Road CR 18 is a main route east of Ely. Follow signs for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness entry points; the trailhead for Kawishiwi Falls is typically well-signed along this road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee or ticket required to visit Kawishiwi Falls. It's a publicly accessible natural attraction.
Kawishiwi Falls is accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times for the natural site.
Typically, there is no parking fee for the Kawishiwi Falls trailhead. However, if you plan to venture further into the Boundary Waters, permits may be required.
Yes, you can visit Kawishiwi Falls in winter, but be prepared for icy conditions on the trail. The falls may be partially or fully frozen, offering a different kind of beauty.
No reservations are needed for the Kawishiwi Falls trail. It's a first-come, first-served access point for a short hike.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Kawishiwi Falls is approximately 0.8 miles round trip, making it a short and manageable walk for most visitors.
The trail is considered moderately difficult due to roots, rocks, and some inclines. It's not a paved path, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Absolutely! The falls offer stunning photographic opportunities. There are great vantage points from the trail and rocky areas near the water.
Swimming directly at the base of the falls is generally not recommended due to strong currents and slippery rocks. However, there might be calmer areas along the Kawishiwi River further downstream.
The trail can be challenging for very young children due to the uneven terrain. Parents should exercise caution and consider carrying younger kids.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food services directly at the Kawishiwi Falls trailhead. You'll need to pack your own snacks or plan to eat in Ely, which has various dining options.
Picnicking is allowed, but there are no designated picnic tables. It's best to pack out everything you pack in to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Ely offers a range of dining, from casual pubs to cafes. Popular spots often include places serving local fare or hearty meals suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.
Food options are scarce directly along Fernberg Road. It's advisable to stock up on supplies before heading out from Ely.
Pack easy-to-carry snacks like trail mix, sandwiches, fruit, and plenty of water. Consider a small cooler if you have a vehicle nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows. Golden hour can create beautiful shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures, especially in lower light.
Yes, climbing on the rocks near the base of the falls offers dynamic angles. The trail itself also provides framed views through the trees.
Use a slower shutter speed to create a silky, blurred effect for the water. Experiment with different settings on your camera.
Check current regulations regarding drone usage in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Restrictions may apply to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities at the trailhead. The opportunity to explore the rocks near the falls (with caution) can be a highlight for adventurous kids. Ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear to prevent slips and falls. It's a great spot for a memorable family outing that combines a bit of adventure with natural beauty.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Ely
Plan for about 1-2 hours for the round trip hike and time spent enjoying the falls. Pack a picnic lunch to savor amidst nature, or plan to grab a meal back in Ely. The falls are particularly impressive in spring or after rain, offering a dramatic visual payoff for a relatively short excursion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Kawishiwi Falls
Despite the trail's challenges, the reward is immense. As you progress, the sound of rushing water grows louder, building anticipation. The trees eventually part to reveal the breathtaking sight of Kawishiwi Falls. The falls are known for their power, especially when the Kawishiwi River is running high, creating a spectacular display of nature's force. Visitors often find numerous vantage points among the rocks to get closer to the falls and capture stunning photographs.
Pro Tip: Visiting after a significant rainfall will ensure you witness the falls at their most dramatic. However, be extra cautious on the trail during or immediately after wet conditions, as the roots and rocks can become quite slick. The well-marked nature of the trail helps ensure you won't get lost, but the terrain itself requires your full attention.
History and Significance of Kawishiwi Falls
The Kawishiwi River itself has been a vital artery for transportation and commerce for generations. The falls represent a natural obstacle that required portaging, a significant undertaking for those traveling through the vast wilderness. Understanding this historical context adds a deeper layer of appreciation to the visit, transforming a simple hike into a journey through time.
Today, Kawishiwi Falls stands as a testament to the enduring natural beauty and historical importance of the area. It serves as a reminder of the human endeavors that shaped this landscape and the importance of preserving these natural and historical sites for future generations to experience.
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