- Trails -

Sioux Narrows-Nestor Falls
Trail News and Updates:

for

January 2025:

Welcome winter lovers to the frosty north!
There are several important updates and reminders to keep in mind for your outdoor adventures as we transition into the new year.

 Weather Outlook for this month:
Monthly Average High/Low of -12/-21 (+8/-12 F) 
Sunny Days: 20
Rain/Snow Days: 11

Jack Frost is making his presence felt on the trails this month, creating a unique outdoor experience. However, be sure to plan on staying warm! The fluffy and crunchy layers of snow offer stunning sights and sounds that can be quite relaxing. Remember to dress in layers and check the weather forecast before heading out. In the last week of January, expect a deep freeze that will bring temperatures close to -40°C/F. I highly recommend avoiding the trails during that time or leaving it to professional winter hikers.

 Events and Special Occasions:

Winter 2025 Snowshoe Club!
Do you have snowshoes and are interested in joining others for an outdoor adventure? Please join the SNNF Trails Facebook group for updates. You can also email [email protected] for updates or questions.

(During Warmer Months Only):
For an up-to-date list of events, please visit your local information center. In Nestor Falls, please visit the information center south of Nestor falls. In Sioux Narrows, visit the Sportfishing Center.

Emergency Information:
In case of emergencies on the trails, call 911 immediately. All of the township trails have cell reception.
Did you know that phones without a cell plan or even without a sim card can still make 911 calls?

  Trail Maintenance and Updates:

2024 Highlights:

Red Pine Trail Hiker Notice:
For hikers on the Red Pine Trail, pink flagging tape has been placed around various trees to help guide you in the right direction. If you see pink flagging tape around a tree on your left side, you are moving deeper into the forest. Conversely, if the tape is on your right side, you are heading in the “right way to the parking lot.” This system allows you to explore and enjoy the trail while easily finding your way back.

Caliper Trail Update: November 2024:
The Caliper Trail sustained significant damage, and staff members from various regional parks have participated in the cleanup efforts. Thanks to their hard work, the trail is expected to reopen in early spring 2025. For updates, please email [email protected] or check here for more information.

Puncheons: Oct 2024
The recent completion of multiple trail projects in Sioux Narrows and Nestor Falls has greatly enhanced the area’s outdoor experience. These newly developed paths are designed to keep hikers’ feet dry as the spring season approaches, ensuring a comfortable trekking experience even when the snow melts. Those looking to explore these beautiful landscapes will find excellent hiking opportunities available right now. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, the trails in these regions are ready for adventurers of all levels!

Mountain Bike Expansion: Oct 2024
Phase 2 of the mountain bike trails is currently underway. This expansion will include extensions to the existing flow trails, the addition of a new parking area, the creation of a skills park, and a family-friendly riding area. These developments are located on the Red Pine Trail, just down Airport Road in Nestor Falls. The area already features flow trails, and this expansion will enhance the offerings, attracting riders from around the region to come and try it out.

Aspen’s Old Path Restored: Sep 2024
At the Aspen Trail, just before hikers return to the trailhead, they have two options. They can either take the old route, which leads them onto the road, or they can choose the path that descends toward the swamp. This second option crosses an old bridge and leads back to the trailhead without going onto the road.

New Trailhead Signs: July 2024
The newly installed smart trailhead signs now offer improved features and details tailored to every hiker’s needs. These signs provide essential information for your outdoor adventures. Don’t forget to bring your smartphone to scan the QR codes.

  Safety Reminders:

– Remember to inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time before setting out.
– Cell phone coverage is available on all Township hiking trails, and even phones without a plan or SIM card can call 911 in case of emergencies.
– If you encounter any fallen trees or hazards on the trails, you can report them directly from the Trailhead sign using your smartphone or use the contact information below.
– We are expecting dry conditions this warm season, please do what you can to ensure any flames and possible sources of ignition are carefully handled.

Emergency Information:
In case of emergencies on the trails, call 911 immediately. Always prioritize your safety and well-being while enjoying the outdoors.

Are you staying here for the winter? We could use help!
We have a small pull-behind groomer that can be used to make cross-country ski tracks, but we don’t have anyone local who would have the snowmobile! Would you or someone you know like to help the community out next winter? If so, Email [email protected] to know more.

 If you see any downed trees on the trail, please notify trail maintenance by emailing [email protected]
or by calling: 807-226-5241 Extension 210 (Monday-Friday 8 am-4:30 pm) and we will clear it up for you as soon as possible!  

Helpful Links

Instagram – Email – Facebook – Pinterest – Discord – Trailforks – SN/NF Air Quality – SN/NF Weather

Pest Report: Bring your bug spray and head nets.

Mosquitoes: Out of Season
Ticks: Out of Season
Gnats: Out of Season
Horse flies: Active, Out of Season
Deer flies: Active, Out of Season
Black flies: Active, Out of Season

Sioux Narrows Trail Conditions:

This is an interactive map, updated in real-time.

In the map below, change your “Activity type” to see conditions for that activity.

Nestor Falls Trail Conditions:

This is an interactive map, updated in real-time.

In the map below, change your “Activity type” to see conditions for that activity.

Keep scrolling for Photos, Trail Descriptions, Directions, and more!

There are many hiking trails within the Township for you to enjoy. Here is a list of each trail, description, and directions.

Sioux Narrows:

 Aspen Trail:
(4k-Single loop) This is a simple forest trail used all year with a couple moderate grade hills. Location: North of Sioux Narrows, turn down Dubois Rd, then drive 1km until you see the trailhead and free parking area on the left. Click here for directions

Fern Valley:
(4k-Multiple entrances) This is the only trail that runs through Sioux Narrows Provincial Park. Parking is free at the Aspen trailhead, and Fern Valley has an entrance visible across the road. Other entrances include the main park entrance, and the beach in the park. As an option, you could get a day pass to park a vehicle within the park, go hiking, enjoy the beach, have a picnic, then get a cool treat at the guardhouse on your way to another adventure! Click here for directions

New Trail coming to Sioux Narrows in 2024! Keep watching for news and updates!
(Red tape, waiting times, and delays have pushed back this project until sometime 2024)

Nestor Falls:

Boreal Trail:
(7k-Short/long loop) This majestic hike starts off easy then has lots of ups and downs for the adventurous hiker. Between the beautiful views, you will find peace at the various sitting areas. The short loop is a little easier, but still has moderate hills. The long loop is difficult for its varying terrain, grade of hills, and distance. Don’t let the rating scare you! The views are worth it all. Located south of Nestor Falls at the information center. Click here for directions

Red Pine:
(6k-Maze style w/long loop) This trail has easy sections at the beginning, and difficult areas with hills around the perimeter. This trail is very unique for its maze like qualities and gentle hills making for an easier trail, but if you want a more difficult hike with length and grade, its there for you along the perimeter. Located down Airport Rd, drive 0.5k and you will see the sign on the right. Click here for directions
UPDATE: There are now 3 different trails that have been made for Mountain bikes!

Caliper Park Nature Trail:
Double loop: This trail is now open to the public again after the devistating 2022 Storm that hit the area. You will see a unique blend of pristene wilderness, downed trees, and wide clearcut forest. Soon there will be a way to see how the forest regrows, and how you can be a part of it. (Updated Trail Map and Distance coming Soon)

Are you a Mobile User? Tap this QR Code!

Are you looking for up to date conditions, trail news and updates, elevation maps, weather, or a GPS trail guide?

We invite you to try a trail experience using your smartphone! Open your smartphone’s camera app, and hover over this “QR Code” image until it comes into focus, then a bubble or notification should pop up automatically. Touch that bubble or notification to visit our new resource for hikers like you! We update this resource regularly (Even in winter!) so you can plan your adventure before you go, and enjoy your outdoor adventure even more.

We will be installing QR Codes like this one at trailheads for hikers if they would like access to all the above mentioned tools.

Do you want to contact us regarding the trails? you can send photos or inform us of issues by scanning the QR code here and navigating to the “Contact us” Button. Alternatively if you want to contact us, or submit photos you can simply Click Here to reach us directly.

Happy Trails!