I visited Arrowhead Provincial Park in June 2021 and spent time walking the Stubbs Falls Trail, one of the park’s short and well-used walking routes. This post is based entirely on that visit and the photos I took along the trail. If you’re planning to walk to Stubbs Falls, especially with a dog, here’s what you can expect.
Getting to the Trailhead and Parking
The Stubbs Falls Trail is easy to find. There is a parking lot directly across the road from the trail entrance, which makes access straightforward. From the parking area, the trailhead is clearly marked, and you can be on the path within a few minutes.
This makes the trail a common stop for day visitors who want a short walk rather than a longer hike.
Overview of the Stubbs Falls Trail
The Stubbs Falls Trail is not difficult. It’s a short walking trail that most visitors can manage without special preparation. The route is well-defined, and the grade is generally gentle until you reach the falls area.
This is not a rugged backcountry trail. It’s more of a scenic walk designed to bring people to the falls with minimal effort.
This picture was early on the Stubbs Falls Trail. The path was wide and easy to walk, with the forest closing in on both sides.
Walking the Trail Along the Little East River
One thing I noticed early on is that the first half of the trail runs well above the Little East River. From this elevated section, there are several spots where you can look down toward the river, making it a pleasant part of the walk.
The trail surface was in good shape during my visit, and the path was wide enough to comfortably pass other walkers. This section felt relaxed and unhurried, even though the trail itself is popular.
The first half of the trail runs well above the Little East River, offering views down toward the water.
Approaching Stubbs Falls
As you get closer to Stubbs Falls, foot traffic increases. This is where most people are heading, so it’s normal to encounter groups moving in both directions.
The approach funnels visitors toward a viewing area near the falls, and this is also where the stairs come into play.
The Stairs at Stubbs Falls (Important for Dog Owners)
The stairs leading down to Stubbs Falls are made of perforated, open-grid metal steps. These are commonly used in outdoor settings because they provide grip and allow water to drain through, especially after rain.
From a human perspective, the stairs are functional and stable. From a dog owner’s perspective, they can be a problem.
At the time of my visit, I had two dogs:
- A 65-pound German Shepherd mix
- A 36-pound Cockapoo
The larger dog found these stairs very uncomfortable. The perforations pressed into her paws, and it was difficult for her to move down the steps without discomfort. In contrast, my smaller dog could be carried, which made the stairs manageable for him.
If you’re visiting Stubbs Falls with a dog:
- Larger dogs may struggle on these stairs
- The surface can be hard on paws
- Carrying a smaller dog is an option, but not realistic for larger breeds
This is something I wish I had known ahead of time, and it’s worth considering before bringing a dog to the falls area.
Viewing Stubbs Falls and Taking Photos
Stubbs Falls is a natural focal point and offers a good photo opportunity, especially with the river flowing over exposed rock.
That said, it’s important to set expectations. This is a popular trail, and there may be people in your line of sight when you’re trying to take photos. During my visit, the viewing area was active, with visitors stopping, taking pictures, and moving through at a steady pace.
If you’re hoping for clear photos without people in them, timing and patience help, but crowds are part of the experience here.
Trail Popularity and Timing
Because of its short length and easy access, the Stubbs Falls Trail sees steady use. It’s well-suited for casual walkers, families, and first-time visitors to Arrowhead Provincial Park.
Visiting earlier in the day or on a weekday may reduce crowd levels, but this trail is rarely empty during peak season.
Beyond Stubb’s Falls
After passing the falls, the trail continues and feels very similar to the first half of the walk. The path remains easy to follow, with the same forested surroundings and gentle terrain. During my visit, this section felt quieter once I moved away from the main falls area, but there were no major changes in trail conditions or difficulty compared to the earlier portion of the route.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Based on my visit, the trail is short and easy to walk. Most people can complete it without difficulty.
Yes. There is a parking lot located across the road from the trail entrance, making access simple.
Dogs are allowed on leash, but the metal stairs near the falls can be hard on their paws, especially for larger dogs. Smaller dogs may be carried, but this is something to consider before visiting.
Yes. The first half of the trail runs above the Little East River, with several natural viewing points along the way.
In my experience, yes. It’s a popular stop within Arrowhead Provincial Park, and there may be people around the falls, especially during peak season.
Final Thoughts From My Visit
Based on my experience, the Stubbs Falls Trail is a short, easy walk with elevated views of the Little East River and a well-known waterfall at the end. It’s accessible, clearly marked, and designed for a wide range of visitors.
If you’re visiting with a dog, the metal stairs near the falls are the biggest consideration, especially for larger breeds. Knowing about them in advance can help you decide whether this stop makes sense for your group.