It might be cliche, but everyone loves to defy TLC and “go chasin’ waterfalls”. I think waterfall hikes are some of the best because they are still beautiful in the rain and snow, so you can hike to them all year. There are a few well known waterfalls near Vancouver you can hike to (ahem Shannon Falls and Brandywine Falls.) But if you look a little further out, you’ll find tons more waterfall hikes. I put my thinking cap on and came up with a list of over 40! There’s something for everyone on this list from short and easy hikes to reeeeeally long and difficult ones. And the waterfall hikes are spread out from Pemberton and Whistler in the north to Hope and Manning Park in the east. So here it is, my really big list of waterfalls near Vancouver you can hike to.
Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for your support! -Taryn
This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.
Waterfall Safety
A quick note on safety before we start. As with any other hike, you’ll need to carry the 10 essentials and leave a trip plan. Read more about the things you should do before every hike. But it’s also worth noting that waterfall hikes tend to be more dangerous than other hikes since they usually involve steep drop offs and slippery surfaces. Rocks, logs and ice can crash down without warning, so be careful when exploring the bottom of waterfalls. Several of the hikes on this list have claimed lives or seriously injured hikers. It can be really tempting to jump over railings, clamber down cliff faces or walk across wet rocks trying to get a better view of the falls. But please don’t. Stay on the trail. Your life could depend on it.
North Shore Waterfalls
Cypress Falls in West Vancouver
This loop hike travels around the canyon of Cypress Creek in West Vancouver, passing several spectacular waterfalls and viewpoints over the steep canyon walls.
Stats: 3km loop, 130m elevation gain, 1.5 hours, easy/moderate
More Info: Vancouver Trails
Twin Falls in Lynn Canyon
Many people head to Lynn Canyon to see the suspension bridge. But if you head downstream you can check out Twin Falls as well as several smaller falls in the canyon. The hike to Twin Falls is one of the best easy hikes in Vancouver for beginners and tourists.
Stats: 1.5km loop, 65m elevation gain, 1 hour, easy
More Info: Vancouver Trails; Park Map
Cleveland Dam in Capilano Canyon
Ok, so the spillway from Cleveland Dam is a man-made waterfall, not a natural one. But it’s still pretty spectacular. Be sure to take in the views from both the top of the dam and the bottom.
Stats: 2.6km loop, 100m elevation gain, 1 hour, easy
More Info: Vancouver Trails; Park Map
Norvan Falls in Lynn Headwaters
The hike to Norvan Falls follows Lynn Creek upstream along a long-abandoned logging road. After a few hours, the trail turns uphill along Norvan Creek to the falls.
Stats: 14km return, 200m elevation gain, 5 hours, moderate
More Info: 105 Hikes; Vancouver Trails; Lynn Headwaters Regional Park Map
Kennedy Falls in Lynn Headwaters
You can hike to Kennedy Falls via a rugged trail on the less-travelled west bank of Lynn Creek. Along the way you’ll pass by a massive old cedar tree.
Stats: 10km return, 150m elevation gain, 5 hours, moderate
More Info: My trail guide to Kennedy Falls
Crystal Falls in Lions Bay
Did you know there’s a hidden little trail network in Lions Bay? The low elevation trails have great views of Howe Sound. The highlight is pretty Crystal Falls.
Stats: 4.5km loop, 175m elevation gain, 2 hours, easy/moderate
More Info: Vancouver Trails; Community Trail Map
Phi Alpha Falls and Hannover Falls on the Howe Sound Crest Trail
If you complete the challenging Howe Sound Crest Trail that runs from Cypress Mountain to Porteau Cove, you’ll be treated to two waterfalls along the way. Both falls are in the northern section of the trail. You can find Phi Alpha Falls on the descent from Deeks Lake towards Porteau Cove. Hannover Falls is located between Brunswick and Hannover Lakes.
Stats: 29km one way, 1-2 days, 610m elevation gain, very difficult
More Info: Outdoor Vancouver
READ NEXT: Most Instagrammed Hikes in Vancouver
Coquitlam Waterfalls
Crystal Falls in Coquitlam
Note: The trail to this waterfall is currently closed since it crosses private property.
Yes, there are two waterfalls near Vancouver called Crystal Falls! The Crystal Falls in Coquitlam is located along the Coquitlam River and is an easy and flattish hike.
Stats: 7km return, no elevation gain, 2 hours, easy
More Info: Vancouver Trails
Sawblade and Woodland Falls on Burke Mountain
The Woodland Walk trail on Burke Mountain heads to two waterfalls: Sawblade Falls and Woodland Falls. Woodland Falls is nice, but Sawblade Falls is definitely more spectacular. (It’s worth noting that this trail actually makes my list of the worst hikes in Vancouver. The falls are nice, but in my opinion, the trail is not.)
Stats: 8km return, 180m elevation gain, 3 hours, easy/moderate
More Info: Vancouver Trails
Swan Falls at Buntzen Lake
If you’ve hiked around Buntzen Lake, you might have spotted a waterfall tumbling down from the mountains on the east side of the lake. That’s Swan Falls and you can hike there via the powerline trail.
Stats: 10km return, 200m elevation gain, 3.5 hours, easy/moderate
More Info: Vancouver Trails; Trail Map
Maple Ridge Waterfalls
Kanaka Creek Cliff Falls in Maple Ridge
The easy trails in Maple Ridge’s Cliff Park are perfect for families or days when you want a shorter walk. There are a few places to view the falls and canyon, plus a big picnic area for snack breaks.
Stats: 4km return, no elevation gain, 2 hours, easy
More Info: Vancouver Trails
Gold Creek Falls in Golden Ears
Heads up: Day passes are required at Golden Ears Provincial Park in summer 2023. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.
Also known as Lower Falls, the hike to Gold Creek Falls is one of the most popular hikes in Golden Ears Provincial Park. The well-travelled trail ends up at two viewpoints: one at the bottom of the falls and one at the top. The top viewpoint can have lots of spray in the spring, so bring a rain jacket, even on a sunny day.
Stats: 5.5km return, no elevation gain, 2 hours, easy
More Info: Vancouver Trails, Golden Ears Park Map
Widgeon Falls at Pitt Lake
This hike is a bit different than the others on the list: To get to the trailhead, you have to paddle a canoe! Widgeon Falls are thunderously powerful in the spring. In the summer they dry up a bit, exposing some cool rock pools you can cool off in.
Stats: 6km return, no elevation gain, 5 hours, easy
More Info: Vancouver Trails
READ NEXT: The 10 Best Hikes in Vancouver – A Local’s Guide
Mission Waterfalls
Rolley Falls at Rolley Lake Provincial Park
Many visitors to Rolley Lake don’t realize that there are actually two waterfalls at the lake. The official park trail goes to the smaller, upper falls. But if you continue downhill on a fainter trail, you’ll discover an even taller falls.
Stats: 5km loop, no elevation gain, 2 hours, easy/moderate
More Info: My trail guide to Fraser Valley waterfalls; Rolley Lake Provincial Park Map
Steelhead Falls at Hayward Lake
The trail to Steelhead Falls branches off the much longer trail around Hayward Lake in Mission. You could spend a full day walking around Hayward Lake, but the trip to Steelhead Falls takes less than hour. You’ll descend down wooden steps to a viewing platform.
Stats: 2km return, 75m elevation gain, 45 min, easy
More Info: My trail guide to Fraser Valley waterfalls
Cascade Falls in Mission
This easy trail is a worthwhile destination since it has an epic suspension bridge in front of the falls. The hike itself is really short, but you’ll definitely want to spend a while taking photos. (And maybe also getting blasted by the mist!)
Stats: 0.75km return, 40m elevation gain, 30 min, easy
More Info: My trail guide to Fraser Valley waterfalls; Trail Map
Davis Lake Falls in Mission
The Davis Lake area around Mission is popular with 4-wheel drive people, which means many hikers might not have heard of it. There’s a great little waterfall near the lake outlet that makes a great place to cool off on a hot day.
Stats: ~2km return, 75m elevation gain, 45 min, moderate
More Info: There’s not a lot of info online about these falls. Pick up the Backroad Mapbook: Vancouver, Coast and Mountains for help finding them.
Statlu Falls and Brotherhood Falls in the Chehalis Valley
It’s a long drive on logging roads to reach this off-the-beaten-track trail, but there are two huge waterfalls to enjoy. Statlu Falls is the first one, just below the outlet for beautiful Statlu Lake. Partway along the lake you’ll find Brotherhood falls, cascading through a canyon. Stay well back from the edge when exploring Statlu Falls as it has claimed several lives.
Stats: 13km return, 350m elevation gain, 6-8 hours, difficult
More Info: Hikes Near Vancouver
Chilliwack Waterfalls
Bridal Veil Falls in Bridal Falls
Bridal Veil Falls is one of the most well known waterfalls near Vancouver. It’s located right next to highway 1 and is a short and easy walk. That makes it a great place to stop and stretch your legs on a road trip.
Stats: 800m loop, 50m elevation gain, 15 min, easy
More Info: My trail guide to Fraser Valley waterfalls
Pierce Creek Falls in the Chillwack River Valley
If you take on the steep and tough hike to Mount MacFarlane in the Fraser Valley, you’ll pass by two sets of waterfalls along the way. If you don’t want to push all the way to the peak, stop at Upper Pierce Lake.
Stats: 21km return, 1765m elevation gain, 10 hours, very difficult
More Info: Pick up a copy of 103 Hikes in Southwestern BC for the best directions.
Bosumarne Falls in the Chilliwack River Valley
This waterfall along Chilliwack Lake Road is a bit hidden, but if you find the trailhead, you’re in for a treat. There are two viewpoints, but the upper falls are more spectacular. Be sure to scramble up the steep and slippery trail to see them.
Stats: 2.5km return, 75m elevation gain, 1 hour, easy/moderate
More Info: Vancouver Trails
READ NEXT: 15 Unusual Hikes Near Vancouver
Hope and Manning Park Waterfalls
Flood Falls in Hope
These spectacular falls are over 300m tall as they tumble down the cliff towards the valley. The short hike to Flood Falls is just off highway 1 outside of Hope, so it makes a great stop-over.
Stats: 1km return, 40m elevation gain, 45 min, easy
More Info: Vancouver Trails
Nepopekum Falls, Shadow Falls and Derek Falls in Manning Park
These three waterfalls are located along the Three Falls trail in Manning Park. Shadow Falls is a bit difficult to see from the trail, but 70m Nepopekum Falls is spectacular. The trail ends at Derek Falls, deep in a rocky canyon. It’s pretty in the summer, but it’s also gorgeous in the winter as a snowshoe hike.
Stats: 9km return, 3 hours, 180m elevation gain, moderate
More Info: Manning Provincial Park; Trail Map
Sunshine Coast Waterfalls
Langdale Falls in Gibsons
This 40-foot waterfall is nestled deep in a moss and fern-covered canyon. It’s an easy hike to get there, and it’s one of the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast. There are two trails to get there: a shorter one that requires a car and a longer one that you can hike as a walk-on passenger from the ferry.
Stats: 3-8km return, 150-280m elevation gain, 1-3 hours, easy
More Info: My trail guide to Langdale Falls
Clack Creek Waterfalls, Roberts Creek
Clack Creek runs through Cliff Gilker Park in Roberts Creek. There are two waterfalls along the creek, along with numerous pretty cascades. Trails run on both sides of the creek, so you can see the falls from several vantage points. This one is also on my list of the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast.
Stats: 3km loop, 50m elevatin gain, 1 hour, easy
More Info: My trail guide to Cliff Gilker Park
Squamish Waterfalls
Shannon Falls in Squamish
At 335m tall, Shannon Falls is the 3rd highest waterfall in BC and one of the most well known waterfalls near Vancouver. It’s a really short walk to view the falls, so its a popular stop on the drive between Vancouver and Whistler.
Stats: 1km loop, 50m elevation gain, 30 minutes, easy
More Info: Shannon Falls Provincial Park
Shannon Falls is one of the best stops between Vancouver and Whistler. Read my complete guide to driving the Sea to Sky Highway for more info on this gorgeous road trip.
Upper Shannon Falls on the Sea to Summit Trail
There’s more to Shannon Falls than what you can see from near the parking lot. High up the slope you’ll find Upper Shannon Falls. This waterfall is located along the Sea to Summit Trail that heads up to the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola.
Stats: 8km return, 850m elevation gain, 4 hours, moderate
More Info: 105 Hikes; Sea to Sky Gondola
Neverland Falls at the Sea to Sky Gondola
The trail network above the Sea to Sky Gondola has some real gems, but my favourite is Al’s Habrich Trail. You’ll find the Neverland Loop branching off from that trail, which leads to gorgeous Neverland Falls.
Stats: 10km return, 500m elevation gain, 6 hours, moderate/difficult
More Info: Outdoor Vancouver; Sea to Sky Gondola
Monmouth Falls in Squamish
These falls along Monmouth Creek are sometimes called Echo Falls since the creek flows out of Echo Lake. This hike is right next to downtown Squamish, but since its across the Squamish River, you’ll need to boat across to get to the trailhead. The trail climbs VERY steeply next to the creek to Echo Lake. Along the way, you’ll get spectacular views of strange rock formations and waterfalls.
Stats: 7km return, 950m elevation gain, 5 hours, difficult
More Info: Squamish Hiking
Crooked Falls in the Squamish River Valley
This unique waterfall consists of two tiers offset from each other. That’s why it’s “crooked”. Try to visit in the spring at the height of the snowmelt to see the falls at full flow.
Stats: 7km return, 400m elevation gain, 3 hours, moderate
More Info: My trail guide to Crooked Falls
High Falls in the Squamish River Valley
This steep trail climbs along the side of a steep gorge with views to High Falls below. Be careful near the edge as people have slipped and died here. On the way back you get great views of the Squamish River Valley
Stats: 12km loop, 650m elevation gain, 5 hours, moderate
More Info: My High Falls Creek trail guide
READ NEXT: Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: 100+ Year-round Trails
Whistler Waterfalls
Brandywine Falls on the Sea to Sky Highway
This 70 meter tall waterfall is one of BC’s most popular falls and one of the best hikes in Whistler. It’s an easy and flat walk from a parking lot next to the Sea to Sky Highway, so it’s a popular stop for tourists and roadtrippers. In the winter, you can snowshoe the trail.
Stats: 1km return, no elevation gain, 30 min, easy
More Info: My Brandywine Falls trail guide
Alexander Falls at Whistler Olympic Park
This gorgeous waterfalls requires next to no walking. You can pretty much see it from the parking lot. But it’s definitely worth getting out of the car and heading over to the viewing platform for a better look. In the winter, you can snowshoe to the base of Alexander Falls and see it covered in ice.
Stats: 0km, no elevation gain, 10 min, easy
More Info: Vancouver Trails
Rainbow Falls in Whistler
Pretty little Rainbow Falls is located along the trail to Rainbow Lake in Whistler. It’s one of Whistler’s best easy hikes. You can just make the short trip to the falls if a full day outing to the lake is not your thing. It also makes a good winter snowshoe destination.
Stats: 2.3 km return, 130m elevation gain, 1-1.5 hours, easy
More Info: My Rainbow Falls Loop Trail guide
Pemberton Waterfalls
Nairn Falls in Pemberton
These short falls tumble through a granite gorge, carving out interesting curves in the rocks. There are two viewing platforms so you can see the falls from a few different angles. Nairn Falls is one of Whistler’s best hikes and also makes a great winter snowshoe hike.
Stats: 3km return, no elevation gain, 1.5 hours, easy
More Info: Vancouver Trails
Cool Creek Canyon Falls in Mount Currie
This off-the-beaten-track hike climbs up one side of Cool Creek canyon, then down the other. Along the way you’ll pass by rushing white water and several waterfalls.
Stats: 2km loop, 320m elevation gain, 2 hours, moderate
More Info: 105 Hikes
Bridal Veil Cascade on the Place Glacier Trail in Birken
This remote trail climbs very steeply up to the Place Glacier. The trail follows Place Creek which tumbles downhill, forming Bridal Veil Cascade in a deep chasm.
Stats: 12km return, 1335m elevation gain, 10 hours, very difficult
More Info: Pick up a copy of 103 Hikes in Southwestern BC for the best directions.
Holloway Falls at Joffre Lakes
Heads up: Day passes are required at Joffre Lakes in summer 2023. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.
The trail to Joffre Lakes was re-routed a few years ago. The old trail between the 2nd and 3rd lakes was nothing too special. But the new trail passes by beautiful Holloway Falls that cascades downhill on a set of rock steps.
Stats: 10km return, 370m elevation gain, 4 hours, moderate
More Info: My Joffre Lakes hiking guide
How many of these waterfalls near Vancouver have you hiked to? Which was your favourite? Tell me in the comments.
MORE VANCOUVER HIKES:
- The Best Vancouver Hiking Books
- 35 Vancouver Hikes You Can Get to on Transit
- Most Instagrammed Hikes in Vancouver (Updated for 2020)
- The 10 Best Hikes in Vancouver
- The Worst Hikes in Vancouver (And Where to Hike Instead)
- 15 Unusual Hikes Near Vancouver
- 100+ Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: Trails You Can Hike Year Round
- The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails
- How to Visit the Best Hot Springs in Canada - December 11, 2024
- Where to Go Snowshoeing in Vancouver - December 4, 2024
- Where to Go Snowshoeing in Whistler - December 4, 2024
Cherene Saradar
Saturday 23rd of March 2019
Wow I had no idea there were so many waterfalls. All the more reason to come back to this amazing place!!
Margarita
Saturday 23rd of March 2019
Wow! That’s a fantastic guide! I am totally inspired to go find all the waterfalls near Sydney! What a cool mission - to explore all the waterfalls in an area. Wish we had more mountains :)!
Josy A
Friday 22nd of March 2019
Taryn, I LOOOOOOOVE this post! I've been to quite a few of these, but it is exciting to find out about so many more! Especially as waterfall season is about to get started!! :D
Taryn Eyton
Friday 22nd of March 2019
Glad you liked it Josy. Waterfall season is upon us, especially with the warm weather this week :)
Lisa
Friday 22nd of March 2019
We definitely love chasing waterfalls too. Great list!