DIVE TYPE: Shore Dive #
GPS Coordinates: #
- Location: 46.2824, -79.0033
Depth: #
- Minimum: 10 feet (3 meters)
- Maximum: 30 feet (9 meters)
Dive Duration: #
- Average Duration: 30-50 minutes depending on exploration time
Talon Chutes: A Historic Dive into the Mattawa River #
Talon Chutes, located on the Mattawa River in Northern Ontario, is a stunning dive site known for its rugged cliffs and rich history. The site is a dam, waterfall, and historic landmark that provides divers with an exciting underwater adventure. With cliffs plunging into water as deep as 30 feet, this dive spot is also a popular location for swimming, picnicking, and cliff jumping during the summer months.
ACCESS #
Location:
- Talon Chutes, Mattawa River, Ontario
- Google Maps Location: Talon Chutes
Steps for Entry:
- Parking: Depending on your approach, you can either arrive by boat from Pimisi Bay or by foot via a hiking path off the Trans-Canada Highway (west of the now-closed Columbia Forest veneer mill).
- Boat Access: From Pimisi Bay, follow the river to the Chutes.
- Hiking Path: Park at the designated area near the Trans-Canada Highway and hike down the path to the Chutes.
- Gearing Up: If arriving by boat, gear up onboard before entering the water. If hiking in, carry your gear to the water’s edge and prepare for the dive.
- Entry: Enter the water near the base of the waterfall or from the rocky shoreline. Be cautious of the current and slippery rocks.
- Dive Plan: Start your dive near the base of the cliffs where the water is deepest (30 feet). Explore the submerged landscape, which includes rocky formations, logs, and areas of moderate current near the falls.
VISIBILITY #
Conditions:
- Visibility in the Mattawa River at Talon Chutes is typically between 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters). The water can be dark and rustic, especially near the waterfall due to sediment disturbance. Early morning dives may offer the best visibility.
ADDITIONAL TIPS #
Equipment:
- Dive Light: A dive light is recommended to explore crevices and shadowed areas at the base of the cliffs.
- Wetsuit: A 7mm wetsuit or drysuit is recommended due to the cool water temperatures, particularly at depth.
Safety:
- Surface Marker Buoy (SMB): An SMB is recommended for safety, particularly if diving near boat traffic.
- Dive with a Buddy: As always, diving with a buddy is advised for safety, especially when navigating the currents near the waterfall.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT #
Talon Chutes and the Mattawa River:
- Historical Significance: Talon Chutes is part of the Mattawa River, which has been a crucial waterway for Indigenous populations, European explorers, and the logging industry. The river was a key route during the fur trade era, and Talon Chutes served as a challenging portage point for Voyageurs and traders navigating the river.
- Logging History: The Mattawa River was also heavily utilized during the logging boom of the 19th century, with logs floated downriver to sawmills. Divers may encounter submerged logs or remnants of the logging era during their dive.
WHERE TO DIVE AT TALON CHUTES #
Entry Point:
- GPS Coordinates: 46.2824, -79.0033
- Address: Nipissing District, ON, Canada
Diving Location:
- The dive is centered around the base of the waterfall and cliffs, where the depth reaches up to 30 feet. Divers can explore the rocky underwater terrain, observe fish, and possibly find remnants of the area’s logging past.
Google Maps Location: Talon Chutes
PRACTICAL SCUBA DIVER INFORMATION #
Cost:
- There may be a nominal day-use fee for accessing the area if entering through a provincial park or public land. Boat launch fees may also apply if launching from Pimisi Bay.
Seasonality:
- Diving at Talon Chutes is best during the late spring to early fall months. The site is less accessible during the winter due to ice and snow. For the best visibility and water conditions, consider diving in May or June before plankton blooms and heavy rainfall.
RESOURCES & LINKS #
- Wikipedia: Mattawa River for more information on the river’s history and significance.
- Google Maps Location: Talon Chutes
- Ontario Parks: If accessing through a provincial park, check Ontario Parks for details on fees and conditions.
- North Bay Scuba Club: North Bay Scuba Club for local diving resources.
CONCLUSION #
Talon Chutes offers a thrilling dive experience in a location steeped in history and natural beauty. The site’s rugged cliffs, waterfall, and historical significance make it a compelling destination for divers interested in exploring Ontario’s waterways. Whether you’re fascinated by the logging history or simply looking for an adventurous dive, Talon Chutes provides an unforgettable experience.
TAGS #
- Shore Dive
- Ontario Diving
- Recreational Dive
- Historical Dive
- Freshwater Dive
- Mattawa River
