Two scientists have recently conducted a new assessment of a remote waterfall, indicating that the rarely explored falls in the rugged boreal shield of northern Manitoba may be the tallest in the province. Alexander Martin and Lukas Olson utilized digital photogrammetry to measure Kapakaytay Falls on the Odei River, revealing a height of approximately 16 meters. This surpasses the previously recognized 14-meter Kwasitchewan Falls near Thompson, making Kapakaytay potentially Manitoba’s tallest waterfall. The researchers, with Olson specializing in photogrammetry at the University of British Columbia and Martin pursuing ecology studies at the University of Oxford, found discrepancies in the previously listed height of Kapakaytay Falls, prompting their expedition to confirm its standing as the tallest in Manitoba.
The falls, located on the Odei River about 40 kilometers northwest of Thompson and 690 kilometers north of Winnipeg, pose a challenge to access due to their remote location within wildfire-damaged forests and treacherous river terrain. Olson and Martin embarked on a demanding paddling journey, navigating rapids and obstacles along the river to reach the hidden waterfall. With the assistance of local guides and after days of paddling, the researchers were greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of Kapakaytay Falls, impressed by its grandeur and the force of water cascading over the rocks.
Inspired by previous explorations, including that of Garrett Fache in 2019, Olson and Martin used digital photogrammetry techniques, capturing over 1,000 images with a drone to reconstruct and measure the waterfall accurately. Their meticulous measurements and modeling indicate that Kapakaytay Falls may be taller than both Pisew Falls and Kwasitchewan Falls, traditionally recognized as Manitoba’s highest waterfalls. The researchers are now focused on publishing their findings and hope that their documented research will contribute to further exploration and understanding of this remote natural wonder.
While provincial data previously identified Kwasitchewan Falls as the tallest in Manitoba, Olson and Martin’s research challenges this assertion, highlighting the importance of ongoing exploration and documentation to uncover hidden natural treasures.