Sambaa Deh Trails

Gaze upon the mighty Sambaa Deh Gorge, which gapes where the Trout River slices through thick spruce woodlands, not far from the community of Jean Marie River. Most visitors stop here to photograph the roadside falls, where the river surges through a limestone slot and over a dazzling drop, but there’s plenty more to see if you follow the network of trails that trace the canyon rim.

Take a stroll 1.5-kilometres upstream and you’ll arrive at the beautiful Coral Falls, named for the numerous coral fossils still found in the area. Coral is a sweeter, shyer waterfall than Sambaa Deh Falls, and one that you’ll likely have all to yourself. Downstream, meanwhile, the path will take you down to the water, where you’ll find stellar fishing for Arctic Grayling and Pickerel. Please take care, because the rocks may be slippery when wet, and there are no fences.

Both the falls and trails are found within Sambaa Deh Falls Territorial Park, a must-see for any visitors that’s located at the junction of Highway 1 and the Trout River. This river was a traditional transportation route before and during the fur trade. The falls forced travellers to portage around this dangerous stretch of water. 

Today, the park and campground contains hiking and walking trails, a viewing platform overlooking the gorge and 20 non-powered camping sites with washroom facilities. 

Sambaa Deh Falls, gorge, trails, and Territorial Park are all located along Highway 1 between Fort Providence and Fort Simpson.