Two researchers have recently conducted a new measurement of a remote waterfall, indicating that the rarely visited 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. Their initial findings suggest a height of 16 meters, slightly surpassing the 14-meter height of Kwasitchewan Falls, which is widely recognized as Manitoba’s tallest waterfall.
Olson, a PhD candidate at the University of British Columbia specializing in photogrammetry, expressed confidence in the measurement accuracy, stating, “We are fairly confident with this number, plus or minus one meter.” While Kapakaytay Falls was previously measured by the federal government decades ago and recorded at 17 meters on topographical maps, this information was not widely disseminated according to Martin, a PhD student in ecology at the University of Oxford.
Located approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Thompson, Manitoba, and 690 kilometers north of Winnipeg, Kapakaytay Falls poses a significant challenge to access due to its remote and rugged setting. Martin and Olson embarked on a paddling expedition in July, requiring meticulous planning, whitewater expertise, and backcountry experience to navigate the challenging terrain.
The researchers captured over 1,000 two-dimensional images with a drone to reconstruct and measure the waterfall using digital photogrammetry. Additionally, laser measurements of surrounding trees and natural features were incorporated into their model. Their modeling work suggests that Kapakaytay Falls may be closer to 52 feet in height, compared to the 46-foot height of the currently recognized tallest waterfall in Manitoba.
Despite not being the first to visit the site, Olson expressed fulfillment in documenting this remote location and highlighted the importance of further research opportunities that their documentation may facilitate in the future. The researchers are now focused on publishing their findings and aspire to contribute to the ongoing exploration and documentation of lesser-known natural wonders.