The hidden gems of Manitoulin Island could easily be considered the hikes and viewpoints. The hiking trails around Manitoulin Island provide a huge variety of scenery. These trails also range in length or difficulty, with a few short trails and a few longer, more strenuous trails.

© Martin Lortz, Stacey Lortz/ Destination Ontario
And then there are Manitoulin’s hiking trails that fall right in the middle to offer a couple of hours of exercise. The Kagawong River and Bridal Veil Falls trail offer a couple of kilometres worth of hiking along with swimming opportunities, historical education, and incredible views.
The Incredible Waterfall Hike
There are a few different options when it comes to accessing the views of Bridal Veil Falls in Kagawong. The shortest and simplest way is the trail from the entrance to the community. The parking lot is located a short distance from the falls. The Kagawong River and Bridal Veil Falls both have historical significance to the once-bustling logging industry in town.
- For a longer hike, access the Kagawong River trail from the Marina. The trail follows the river to the falls. Along the way, keep your eyes open for commemorative and historical plaques or sculptures.
- Once at the waterfall, hikers are permitted to swim in the shallow pool at the base of the gentle falls.
More Great Nearby Hikes
Find more beautiful and scenic trails to the east or west of Bridal Veil Falls on Manitoulin.
- The Cup and Saucer Trail, one of Manitoulin’s more popular hikes, is about 18km east of Kagawong. The area offers close to 15km of route options with a 5km out-and-back route as a well-travelled path.
- Gore Bay, a community to the west of Kagawong, offers two short trails which offer excellent views of the Bay. See out over the water from the East Bluff Lookout, or right up close from the Gore Bay Waterfront boardwalk trail.
More Sights to See in Kagawong
The small village of Kagawong sits on the shores of Mudge Bay and in a peaceful cove. The Bridal Veil Falls hike will get you to see much of the Village already. And at the north end of the trail, you’ll be able to tour the entire community, the public art, the Old Mill, local galleries, and local dining.
- The Old Mill Heritage Centre and Museum houses a great deal of local history and artefacts. Next to the museum is Kagawong’s historic lighthouse along with beautiful waterfront scenery.
- Also next to the museum and lighthouse is the local beachfront. The small sandy area has picnic space and a playground.
- Follow Kagawong’s Billings Connection Trail to learn about local history and heritage. Along the trail you will find 32 plaques and seven sculptures which pay homage to a variety of pieces and people from history.
- Find more art and exhibits with Kagawong’s local galleries: Edwards Studios, and Manitoulin Wild Works.
- Indulge in the sweeter side of Kagawong with a visit to the Manitoulin Chocolate Works, or Boo-Bah-Lou Candy Corner.
Road Trip: Toronto – Tobermory – Manitoulin Island – Killarney – Georgian Bay
Planning your Trip – Bridal Falls Trail

© Martin Lortz, Stacey Lortz/ Destination Ontario
What: The Bridal Falls trail is in the community of Kagawong on Manitoulin Island. The approximately 11 metres (36 ft) waterfall is part of the Kagawong River, which leads from the lake of the same name into Lake Huron.
Location and how to get there: the eastern end of Manitoulin Island’s Highway ON-540; start the trail from the Kagawong Visitor’s Centre, or the Heritage Centre and boat launch
Cost: free
Best time to go: accessible year-round
For more information:
Bridal Veil Falls – All Trails







