MARSH'S FALLS NATURE RESERVE

The Lake of Bays Heritage Foundation, a non-profit land trust, acquired this property to protect its natural and scenic values. Families and small groups are welcome to visit, but you must register first.


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  • What kinds of activities are permitted?

    Permitted uses include hiking, bird watching, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, photography.

  • What kinds of activities are prohibited?

    Prohibited uses: camping, fires, hunting, biking, motorized vehicles, pets on the property.

    Take only photos, leave only footprints.

  • Is there parking at the Nature Reserve?

    Yes, there is an area to park your car. Details about entering the property and parking will be emailed to you directly after your registration.

  • How long are the trails and what is their degree of difficulty?

    The trails consist of four connected loops ranging in length from .6 to 1.1 km. The total length of the trails is 4 km. Most of the trails are level with some moderate slopes.

  • What are the hours for the property?

    The property is open from dawn until dusk to allow visitors to experience nature from early morning until sunset.

  • Are there garbage facilities on the property?

    No. We ask that you take any garbage with you when you leave.

  • Are there washrooms available?

    There is an outhouse located on the pastureland loop. Near “G” on the map.

  • Can I launch my boat at the landing below the falls?

    Boats cannot be launched at the Marsh’s Falls Nature reserve. Dwight Beach is good place to launch your boat if you want to paddle the river and it’s only a kilometer from the mouth of the river.

  • Can I land my boat at Marsh’s Falls?

    If you are paddling up the river, and you have registered to visit the Marsh’s Falls Nature Reserve, you can land on the north side below the falls where there is a sign. We do not have the space or the facilities to safely park power boats. 

  • Why are dogs not allowed on the property?

    We are committed to protecting wildlife habitat in this nature reserve. The presence of dogs, on-leash or off-leash, causes wildlife to move away thereby reducing the amount of habitat in which to feed, breed and rest. Wildlife is repelled by the scent of dogs and this effect remains after the dogs have gone.

  • Are there days when the nature reserve will be closed?

    Yes, it will be closed to visitors on days when there is an organized event,  a meeting or trail maintenance. Closure dates.

  • Is the Education Centre available for rent?

    The Education Centre is not available for social gatherings. However, like-minded organizations have occasionally used the facility for meetings and art or photography courses. For further information contact info@lakeofbaysheritage.ca

  • Can I arrange for my organization to bring a large group to visit the property?

    Groups of over 8 people can request a hosted visit to the Marsh’s Falls Nature Reserve by contacting info@lakeofbyasheritage.ca.

  • Do I need to register if I want to portage my canoe around the falls?

    You do not need to register if you are paddling on the river and using the portage to carry your watercraft around the falls.

  • I was just there yesterday. Do I really need to register again?

    In order for us to monitor use, it is necessary to register each time you want to visit the property.

Note: the Nature Reserve is closed to visitors on days when there are organized events. 

Here are the closure dates for June.  Please plan to visit on another day.

Saturday June 7 - closed

Saturday June 14 - closed

Wednesday June 18 - closed

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Marsh's Falls Hiking Trail Map