Ontario has a wealth of hidden gems. Ones that will leave you mesmerized and breathless. If you crave tranquillity, immersion in the power of nature and adventure, then a visit to Egan Chutes Provincial Park in Bancroft is definitely for you. This hidden gem is a known nature reserve and is a non-operational park – without facilities or visitor centres.
Discloure: Posts may contain affiliate links. Purchases made through our links result in a small commission to us at no charge to you. We only recommend products that meet our brand standards based on testing and first hand use by our authors.
Getting to Bancrofts Egan Chutes Park
To fully appreciate Egan Chute’s serene scenery and sounds, you’ll first need to know how to get there. Easily missed, the old forest road off Highway 28 East in Bancroft, Ontario, is the access point.
The park is not marked, nor is the old forest road. To access the falls via the short trail, park in the small lot before the York River Bridge (if you are heading East). Slow down as you approach the bridge, or you’ll miss the entrance to the small parking lot. Otherwise, there is another small lot after the bridge for those who wish to hike the longer trail or see the Egan Falls from behind.
I have marked the two access points on the map to give you a rough idea of where to find the unofficial park entrances.
Be forewarned that these lots can get very busy, especially in the summer. From there, you can set out by foot to explore the park’s numerous trails, which wind through a lush forest and along the stunning riverbank.
Whether travelling solo or with a group, visiting Bancrofts Egan Chutes Provincial Park is the perfect place to embrace nature – don’t forget to bring your camera, as you’ll want to capture every moment of your visit!
RELATED: Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge
Exploring the Egan Chutes Hiking Trails
The hiking trails in Egan Chutes Park offer a unique and immersive experience for outdoor enthusiasts. The park boasts over 8 kilometres of hiking trails. These trails meander through a dense forest, leading visitors to the captivating waterfall and scenic viewpoints. The trails range from an easy stroll to a challenging hike.
The park’s riverside trail is perfect for anyone looking for a shorter hike. This trail is accessible for hikers of all levels and offers picturesque views of the river and surrounding forest.
For a more challenging hike, the Upper Chutes Trail is a must-try. The trail features steep inclines and rocky terrain. Which ultimately rewards hikers with a breathtaking view of the park’s iconic chutes.
No matter which trail you choose, always stay on the designated trail and respect the natural surroundings by taking photos and leaving nothing but footprints.
Tips for Enjoying Your Visit to Egan Chutes
As with any backcountry excursion, Bancroft’s Provincial Park is no different. Make sure you come prepared! As mentioned in the intro, this park has no facilities, and you’re about 12 driving kilometres from Bancroft.
Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, as the park’s trails can be challenging. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you fuelled throughout your hike. Additionally, be sure to bring sunscreen and bug spray to protect yourself, as the bugs can get nasty.
The hiking trails at Egan Chutes can become challenging as they are occasionally slippery and quite dangerous in certain areas. With hazards such as protruding rocks, tree roots and a significant drop as you near the chute – be especially mindful of your children, the elderly and any visitors trying to pass you on the trails.
RELATED: Day Hiking 101: What to Bring and Why
The Climb Down to the Chutes
As you get closer to the chutes and you know you are near, by the immense sound and power of the falls, you will come across a trail. This trail leads down and must be hiked with extreme caution – as there’s no room for error. It’s a long way down, and the risk of injury is high, but the climb down is worth its weight in gold. This trail leads right to Egan Chutes, giving you the most exhilarating experience of the raw power and history of the chutes. The Egan Chutes Provincial Park photos cannot convey the feeling and scenery!
Discovering the Egan Chutes Cascading Waterfalls
We have compiled a quick video of what you can expect to see during your visit to Egan Chutes Provincial Park. Again, this video does not do the Egan Falls justice. It is something you need to see on your own! Egan Chutes Park offers plenty of vantage points for photo ops, picnics, or private opportunities to take in the views.
RELATED: Bonnechere Caves: The Hidden World Beneath Eganville, Ontario
Egan Chutes Park, A Final Thought
Amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we all need a quiet place to unwind and connect with nature. Egan Chutes Provincial Park offers just that and more. With cascading waterfalls and a choice of trails to explore, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking breathtaking beauty and serene surroundings. So, put on your suitable footwear, plan ahead, and get ready to explore the mighty Egan Chutes!
If you love scenic rivers and have no fear of heights, Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge in Campbellford, Ontario, is worth the drive.
If you found this post helpful, please consider sharing it with others! Thank you!
Bookmark this post on Pinterest for future reference!
