Nairn Falls has been significantly altered by the development of a hydroelectric generating station. The 5 MW generating station was constructed in 1915 to supply power to local mines. As such, it is a heritage building that some would find attractive. A spillway remains along the far left side of the building, and it is just visible in the distance from the road.
Unfortunately, you can't get close, and even if you could, during many times of the year the majority of the flow is guided through the station.
The drive along the river to the station is scenic and worth the short side trip from the highway. It features barren highlands along the river in places, and a secluded picnic spot by the river is worth searching for. That said, I visited first in 2002 and then not again until spring, 2023. I perceived that the vegetation between the road and the river was definitely getting thicker. There are still several views of the site as you cruise this road.
Region | Northeast |
---|---|
County | Sudbury |
Near | Nairn |
Watercourse | Spanish River |
Watershed / % Lakes | 4 / 17% |
Ownership | Crown waters |
Landscape | Semi-wilderness |
Size | Small |
Type | Dam Spillway |
Modification | Hydroelectric generating station |
Access | Easy |
Top / Bottom | Roadside only / Roadslide only |
Trail conditions | Gravel Road |
Hiking Time | 0 min |
Coordinates | 46.3443,-81.5736 |
Parking | 46.3429,-81.5741 |
Site ID | WOO.SUD.055 |
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