Nestor Falls is 100 km (60 miles) north of Fort Frances and International Falls (U.S.),located on the eastern shoreline of the Lake of the Woods. Nestor Falls is a small community located in Northwestern Ontario on Highway 71 between Kenora (120 km to the north) and Fort Frances (95 kilometres to the south). Highway 71 connects Highway 11, the Northern Route of the Trans-Canada Highway with the #17 Main Route of the Trans-Canada Highway.
The actual falls descend 12 metres (40 feet) into the Lake of the Woods and can be seen from the overlook area on highway 71. Sightseeing and fishing trips are available by floatplane, there are also welled mapped hike trails with shelters for sudden storms. The other attraction around Nestor Falls is Caliper Lake Provincial Park.
During the summer the main recreational activities are camping, hiking, water sports, and world-class fishing. In winter its ice fishing, snowmobiling and skiing.
Nestor Falls History
The town’s history is tied closely to the development of the logging industry in the area.
In the late 1800s, the town was originally known as “Nestorville” and had a small community of settlers who farmed and logged in the area. The town was named for the Nestor family, who were among the earliest settlers here.
In the early 1900s, the logging industry began to boom in Northwestern Ontario, and Nestor Falls became a hub for the transportation of timber. The town’s location on a major waterway connected to Lake of the Woods, making it an important hub for shipping and receiving goods. Over time, Nestor Falls grew with a post office, general store, and other amenities.
In the 1930s, the town became a popular destination for fishing and hunting, drawing visitors from across North America.
During World War II, the Canadian government established a radar station in the area to monitor air and water traffic. Many locals were employed in its construction and operation,
After World War II, Nestor Falls continued to thrive as a fishing and hunting destination, and tourism became an important part of the town’s economy. The town has several resorts and lodges, as well as a number of small businesses and services.
Nestor Falls Attractions
Lake of the Woods
Nestor Falls, ON, P0X 1K0
(807) 484-2132
Website https://www.lakeofthewoods.com/
Nestor Falls is located on the shores of Lake of the Woods, which is known for its crystal-clear waters, scenic islands, and world-class fishing. Visitors can rent boats and explore the lake’s many bays and inlets, or hire a guide to help them catch walleye, northern pike, and other fish species.
Nestor Falls Fly-In Outposts
(807) 484-2964
1189 Armit Avenue, Nestor Falls, ON, P0X 1K0
Website https://www.nestorfalls.com/
This local business offers visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty of Northwestern Ontario’s wilderness by flying them to remote lakes and rivers for fishing, hunting, or simply relaxing.
Nestor Falls Marine
(807) 484-2134
38 4th Street, Nestor Falls, ON, P0X 1K0
Website https://nestorfallsmarine.com/
This local marina provides boat rentals, repairs, and other services for those heading out around and over Lake of the Woods.