White River Suspension Bridge: Pukaskwa Wilderness Adventure

Welcome to the Hai Hai Channel! Today, please join us as we explore the White River Suspension Bridge Trail, one of the most scenic and rewarding day hikes in Pukaskwa National Park, located along the northern shores of Lake Superior.

This challenging 18-kilometer round-trip trail takes us through rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views, and leads to the stunning White River Suspension Bridge. Starting at the Visitor Centre, we meander through dense boreal forest, rocky outcrops, and moss-covered ground. As we progress, the forest opens up, revealing expansive views of the Canadian Shield and the wild, untamed landscape of Pukaskwa.

Along the trail, we encounter multiple ascents and descents, with wooden staircases and boardwalks to assist us over the more difficult sections. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as black bears, moose, and various bird species that call the park home.

About 5.6 kilometers into the hike, we stop for a snack at the Playter Harbour campsite, a peaceful spot nestled along the shore. Here, we take a break to enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding wilderness, with stunning views of the harbour and the distant rolling hills. It's the perfect place to rest and recharge before continuing our journey.

The trail leads us to the iconic White River Suspension Bridge, suspended 23 meters (75 feet) above the rushing waters of the White River Gorge. Spanning 30 meters (98 feet), the bridge offers a thrilling experience, with panoramic views of the powerful White River rapids below and the dramatic gorge carved into the ancient landscape. This is the highlight of the hike, where we pause to take in the natural beauty surrounding us.

Once across the bridge, we find a scenic lookout point, a perfect spot to enjoy the views before heading back. The entire hike takes around 6 to 8 hours to complete, so we need to be prepared for a full day of adventure. Make sure to bring enough water, snacks, and appropriate gear to fully enjoy this rewarding trek.

The White River Suspension Bridge Trail showcases the raw beauty and adventure that Pukaskwa National Park has to offer, making it an unforgettable experience for those seeking a true wilderness adventure.

00:00 Intro
02:09 Visitor Centre
03:41 Coastal Hiking Trail
04:07 Prescribed Burn Area (prescribed fire in 2012)
04:34 Hattie’s Cove
05:48 Wooden Boardwalks
07:14 Wetland
08:18 Mossy Forest
10:22 Navigating Up and Down
13:30 Playter Harbour
15:00 Playter Harbour 1 Campsite
17:11 Mdaabii Miikana Trail Sign
19:30 Suspension Bridge
20:26 Outro