The Ontario government has pledged nearly $400,000 to upgrade and revitalize a major tourist attraction in northwestern Ontario.
The Kakabeka Falls provincial park will receive $389,000 in infrastructure improvements, which include new and improved viewing platforms to visit the province’s second-tallest waterfall, the historic Kaministiquia River, as well as interpretive signage for the park.
Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks David Piccini was joined by Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Neil Lumsden and Minister of Northern Development and Kenora – Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford to make the announcement at the ‘Niagara of the North’.
“This investment in Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park will help enhance the visitor experience and encourage more Ontarians to visit and explore this beautiful park in Northern Ontario — a truly must-see natural wonder,” said Minister Piccini.
The Kakabeka Falls have a drop of 40 metres from one of the eight viewing platforms surrounding the area, offering an accessible viewing area for all ages. The signage will also provide the history and ecology of the park and the role the waterfalls plays in the local watersystem.
“By making investments in Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, we are ensuring an enhanced experience for visitors while supporting the North’s diverse tourism sector,” said Minister Rickford.
Located 30 minutes west of Thunder Bay, Ontario says Kakabeka Falls is one of the province’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing an average of 200,000 visitors each year. The park also includes cross-country skiing and hiking trails.
“Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park is a unique Northern Ontario attraction that brings tourists from around the world and boosts the local economy – that is why ensuring a once-in-a-lifetime experience for every visitor is so important,” said Minister Lumsden.
The project is part of a $41.7 million investment over two years in Ontario Parks infrastructure. Its announcement was made in celebration of Tourism Week, which runs until April 30.
