Robert WebbWaterfalls are truly a sight to behold, and we’re fortunate to have quite a few of them that are just a short drive away.
If you’re not sure where to find these beautiful natural wonders, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading, and we’ll share a list of must-see waterfalls in and around Vancouver!
Cypress Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 17 minutes
Address: Woodgreen Pl, West Vancouver, BC V7S 2V6, Canada
Best time to visit: All-year round
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8am to 11pm
Cypress Falls, one of the more famous waterfalls near Vancouver, is a fantastic year-round destination. The trails run alongside the falls, and you’ll have to hike to the top to get to it.
The waterfall itself is definitely worth the hike, and if you’re feeling adventurous, there are a few spots where you can take a refreshing dip in the water.
Pro tip:
The view from the upper falls is more picturesque than the lower ones, but be cautious when you’re up at the higher falls, as you can get very close to the edge.
Kennedy Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 39 minutes
Address: North Vancouver, BC V7K 3B2, Canada
Best time to visit: May through November
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Right here in North Van, folks that plan to get a glimpse of Kennedy Falls need to tackle a trail that’s got just the right amount of challenge, some gentle elevations, and well-marked trails.
And while you’re making your way towards Kennedy Falls, be sure to keep an eye out for that grand ol’ cedar tree. But the true treasure of this hike is the breathtaking waterfall waiting at the finish line – just be cautious, you might even sneak in a refreshing leg dip.
Pro tip:
It gets quite steep and slippery in some places of the trail so hiking shoes are mandatory if you plan to hike the whole trail to see Kennedy Falls.
Twin Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 26 minutes
Address: 3663 Park Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7J 3G3, Canada
Best time to visit: June through September
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10am to 4pm
The Twin Falls on Lynn Creek’s star attraction is the suspension bridge, which is surrounded with endless trees and lush greenery. It’s a fairly easy hike, and once you’re at the bridge, you’ll see the falls down below.
You’d have to go pretty far down to reach the falls; you can’t miss it; it’s the two waterfalls that are in close proximity to each other. Although they’re not exceptionally high, the falls are breathtaking, with pooling water at the base where you can swim.
Pro tip:
If you head towards the left side of Twin Falls, there’s actually a cozy rest area where you can have a picnic.
Nairn Falls Park
Travel time from Vancouver: 1.5 hours
Address: Whistler, BC V0N 1B4, Canada
Best time to visit: March through November
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7am to 10pm
Nairn Falls Provincial Park sits approximately 20 clicks north of Whistler, where you can get your adrenaline fix with activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, and hiking.
There’s an easy 1.5-kilometer trek leading you to the waterfall, but it’s a bit tricky to see as it’s nestled in rocks but once you inch a bit further down the cliff, the other half of the falls reveals itself in all its glory.
Pro tip:
Try to take a photo of the waterfalls before sunset to get them lit by the setting sun. It’s quite gorgeous, and creates a nice contrast between the colors of the waterfall and the warm hues of the sky.
Kanaka Creek Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 1 hour
Address: 11484 256 St, Maple Ridge, BC V2W 1H1, Canada
Best time to visit: April through June
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7am to 8pm
Inside the Kanaka Creek Regional Park is the Kanaka Creek Falls. There’s an hour and a half hike to get to the waterfall, with mainly up and down hill walking, but nothing too crazy.
The waterfalls themselves are a real delight to behold because sandstone formations are quite rare, and the shapes sculpted by the water are truly fascinating.
Pro tip:
Black bears are frequently spotted in this area from spring to fall, but they’re quite used to the presence of people and dogs, but it’s wise to be cautious and make sure your dogs remain on a leash.
Crooked Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Address: Upper Squamish, BC V0N 2L2, Canada
Best time to visit: April through November
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10am to 6pm
Crooked Falls is probably one of the most surreal experiences you’ll find in Squamish. The size and volume of the waterfall is simply breathtaking. As you stand at the viewing point, a gentle air current carries the mist from the waterfall.
However, we’d like to warn you that this is not an easy hike. It has steep elevations, there’s logs and boulders covered with moss and ferns along the way, and it’s easier coming up than down, but the falls make it all worth it.
Pro tip:
Be aware of some ground wasp’s nests along the trail to Crooked Falls!
Gold Creek Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 1 hour
Address: Lower Falls Trail, Fraser Valley F, BC V0M 1H0, Canada
Best time to visit: May through October
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7am to 3:30pm
The Gold Creek Falls is a 2.5-kilometer hike from the Gold Creek parking lot, and the trail is mostly flat and gravel-paved. The real kicker here is the abundance of tall trees, moss, and ferns that make it feel like you’re walking through an enchanted forest leading to a pristine waterfall.
Gold Creek Falls has a robust, strong flow of water going on, and there’s plenty of space to sunbathe or have a picnic near the waterfall.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to secure a day pass and ensure you download it to your phone or take a screenshot because there’s no cell service here.
Bridal Veil Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 1.5 hours
Address: Bridal Falls, BC V0X 1X0, Canada
Best time to visit: March through October
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8am to 8pm
The Bridal Veil Falls is a very accessible spot to rejuvenate and de-stress. You can get to the falls within 15 minutes and it’s mostly flat to small inclines, but beware, the last mile to the falls is steep and slippery so exercise caution.
Nonetheless, the falls are stunning, with refreshing water perfect for dipping your toes in to cool off after your hike. It’s particularly picturesque in the sunlight, so it’s ideal to visit in the afternoon when the sun bathes the falls in its golden glow.
Pro tip:
The waterfall flows into a creek that runs right alongside the whole path. It’s super pretty, and it’s lots of fun for kids and grown-ups to walk through or play in.
Sawblade Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 50 minutes
Address: Village Lake Trail, Coquitlam, BC V3E 3H1, Canada
Best time to visit: April through November
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
The forest around Sawblade Falls shows marks of why it’s called that, with huge tree stumps all over the place. The trail is fun, but getting up to the falls is steep, and there are lots of turns.
But, the paths are marked well, so it’s not hard to find your way. Just keep an eye out for the blue and orange markers, and you’ll be on track. When you reach the falls, you’ll see it drop 40 feet down, creating a really pretty sight.
Pro tip:
We suggest heading out in the morning. That way, when you reach the falls, it’s the perfect time to have lunch and soak in the beautiful view.
Shannon Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 45 minutes
Address: BC-97, Squamish-Lillooet D, BC V0N 1T0, Canada
Best time to visit: June through September
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7am to 10pm
An easy hike to a nice waterfall. Shannon falls is located in Shannon Falls Provincial Park, and it’s quite a serene environment with plenty of picnic benches and green spaces.
The waterfall is an amazing sight with powerful water rushing down the rocks. If you hike up to the very top, you can feel the mist from the waterfall all around you.
Pro tip:
Shannon Falls is extra beautiful in the spring because that’s when the snow on the mountain is melting and flowing into the waterfall.
Norvan Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 37 minutes
Address: 4900 Lynn Valley Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7K 3B2, Canada
Best time to visit: June through October
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7am to 4pm
The sights at Norvan Falls are incredibly beautiful, with lots of different natural scenery along the trail. After a 7-kilometer walk through the wilderness, you’ll start hearing the sound of rushing water as you get closer to the falls.
When you reach Norvan Falls, there’s a small lookout, but it can be a bit risky because of erosion. It’s safer to follow the trail down to the water and sit on the big rocks or the giant tree stump by the pool below the falls.
Pro tip:
You can find Norvan waterfall on the right side of the suspension bridge, so there’s no need to cross the bridge. Just head uphill, and you’ll get to see the waterfall up close.
Rainbow Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 1.5 hours
Address: Whistler, BC V0N 1B5, Canada
Best time to visit: June through September
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – Open 24 hours
Rainbow Falls is a fantastic place to visit, and it’s a simple hike that’s perfect for kids. While there are some parts with a bit of uphill walking, it’s still a relatively short hike. Along the way, you’ll come across a couple of lakes and some pretty mountains.
It’s really worth the hike for anyone looking for a quiet mountain waterfall. But if you’re in the mood for adventure, head back to the trail fork and tackle the additional 6 kilometers to reach the stunning Rainbow Lake.
Pro tip:
Rainbow falls can be dangerous during the winter season as it’s very slippery so it’s wise to visit during warmer months.
Brandywine Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Address: Whistler, BC V0N 0A0, Canada
Best time to visit: April through October
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 8am to 9pm
The scenic Brandywine Falls is situated inside Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, and it’s a great stop on the way to Whistler village. There’s a lookout point to get the best view of it, and it’s an easy trail
As you hike to this waterfall, you’ll come across a variety of interesting sights, including a valley with a flowing river, fast-moving rapids, a rugged rock wall, train tracks, and if you look over, you can even spot the snow-covered mountain peaks in the distance.
Pro tip:
Make sure to bring your own hand sanitizer or disinfecting wipes because there won’t be any running water available for handwashing.
Cascade Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 1 hour and 22 minutes
Address: 36421 Ridgeview Rd, Deroche, BC V0M 1G0, Canada
Best time to visit: April through October
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 7am to 7pm
Cascade Falls is a quick 5-minute walk up a hill, and its crystal-clear waters are so inviting. You can see the emerald green water from the suspension bridge.
If you want to go to the pool, just head over to the picnic area and follow the stream. But be ready, because the water here is quite chilly, even in the summer.
Pro tip:
For those who prefer not to take a steep walk up to the falls, there’s a lovely picnic table area right by the river, conveniently located next to the parking lot.
Alexander Falls
Travel time from Vancouver: 1.5 hours
Address: Squamish-Lillooet, BC V0N 2L2, Canada
Best time to visit: June through September
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10am to 4:30pm
Nestled in the Callaghan Valley, Alexander Falls is a scenic waterfall that tends to be less crowded compared to others in BC. You don’t need to hike any trails to reach this beauty, as there’s a viewing platform conveniently situated just off the Sea to Sky highway.
Pro tip:
The turn to the parking lot to Alexander Falls comes 500 meters earlier than what the GPS suggests, so keep that in mind to avoid missing the entrance.
Well, these waterfalls should start you off on your waterfall adventure in and around Vancouver. If you’re planning to spend a night in these places, maybe consider renting a camper van to fully immerse yourself in nature.
If you prefer less water and more greenery, we highly recommend you read our article of the best gardens in Vancouver.
