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Pigeon River

Pigeon River Provincial Park

Birding

Pigeon River marks a transition from the forest of the Great Lakes-St Lawrence Lowlands to boreal forest. This means that bird species of both regions can be found in the park. Birders could see Grey Catbirds, Rose-Breasted Grosbeaks, Common Ravens and Gray Jays.

Fishing

The Pigeon River offers fishing opportunities for pickerel, Northern Pike, Chinook
Salmon, Smallmouth Bass, and Rainbow Trout.

Hiking

Pigeon River has a number of hiking options for visitors. The Boardwalk, Finger Point and High Falls trails begin at the Ontario Travel Centre. The Middle Falls Walk, Lookout Trail and Logging Road Trail begin at the Middle Falls Access. A trail brochure is available at the Ontario Travel Information Centre.

Boardwalk Trail – 350 m one way (15 minutes round trip) barrier-free access
Follow the accessible boardwalk that takes you to a viewing platform above the Lake Superior shoreline. The beach section of this trail shows evidence of the logging era and the view of Pigeon Bay up to Finger Point Trail.

Finger Point Trail – 2.5 km one way (two hours round trip), steep and rugged terrain in sections
Take a hike up to panoramic views of Lake Superior, the shores of Canada and the USA and to scenic Finger Point. Enjoy all of this from a sculptural bench inspired by Lake Superior.

High Falls Trail – 2 km loop (one hour round trip), steep stairs and hills in sections
Hike along a historic logging road to a spectacular view of High Falls; shared by both Ontario and Minnesota. Enjoy a view of Pigeon River’s steep walled gorge and visit the old chimney site. A plaque recognizing the Pigeon River as part of the Boundary Waters Voyageur Canadian Heritage River is located near the chimney site.  Across the river you will see the lookouts of Grand Portage State Park. High Falls is the highest waterfall in Minnesota (but not the highest in Ontario).

Middle Falls Walk – 700 m (20 minute round trip), easy
Enjoy this short walk from the Middle Falls parking area to the beautiful 6 m high Middle Falls.

Lookout Trail – 1.6 km one way (one and a half hour round trip) Steep sections, cliffs and rugged terrain in areas
Embrace this challenging hike up steep cliff tops to spectacular views over Lake Superior and Pigeon River. On a clear day you can see out to Michigan’s Isle Royale.

Hunting

Signs along the highway indicate areas where hunting is permitted.

Winter Activities

Pigeon River is a great location for winter day use adventures near Thunder Bay.
Hiking and snowshoeing are welcomed on the park’s trails. Please note that trails are not maintained or track set. Be sure to use caution during winter months.