The Best Squamish Waterfalls
Posted on: November 3, 2021
Squamish's Waterfalls
This time of year waterfalls are exceptionally sprayful, so zip up your Goretex and brace yourself for the splash zone. Squamish is home to some gorgeous waterfalls, here is a list of some of our favourites.
1. Shannon Falls
The third highest waterfall in BC, Shannon Falls is also Squamish's natural rain-o-meter. The 335-metre cascade transforms from a trickle to a raging, sprayful, spectacle on a rainy day. Located just south of the Stawamus Chief, it cascades down from the massive cliffs above Highway 99. It’s easy to get to, just follow the signs off Highway 99 for Shannon Falls Provincial Park.
2. Alexander Falls
Photo: @alynne.r_
One of the most stunning waterfalls in the Sea to Sky region and also one of the most accessible. There is a viewing platform next to the parking lot so no hiking is required. To access the viewpoint drive approximately 10km down Callaghan Valley Road and watch for the Alexander Falls pull out into a large gravel parking lot. The viewing platform is located in the corner of the parking lot.
3. Brandywine Falls
Twenty-five minutes north of Squamish on Highway 99 is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in BC. Brandywine Provincial Park is located here and access to the viewpoint of the falls is a mellow walk through the woods.
4. Crooked Falls
Photo: @tellez_g
Sheltered under a thick canopy of trees the trail to Crooked Falls can be trekked rain or shine without jeopardizing the view. At only 6km in the distance, the trail features three breathtaking viewpoints making it one of the most rewarding hikes in Squamish.
5. High Falls Creek
This is probably the most demanding to get to, but absolutely worth the trip. High Falls Creek is located in the Upper Squamish Valley and is a 3 - 5-hour hike up a gruelling 600 metres of elevation gain in just 4km. The falls themselves drop through a tight box canyon in two distinct sections. One of the highlights of getting to this trail is the drive. The Squamish Valley Road follows the mighty Squamish River and the views along the way take in some of the most spectacular peaks in the Southern Coast Mountains.
There are a number of additional waterfalls located within the Sea to Sky (we haven't listed them all here - it's fun to adventure and discover these wonders for yourself!) You'll often come across some natural waterfalls if you are just out exploring Squamish's forests. So go on, chase some waterfalls today.
The best time to view them is usually in the Spring and Fall, but this can vary depending on the year and the specific waterfall. If you're hoping to visit a waterfall after a heavy rain, it’s important to be extra careful on the trails and falls as they can be slippery. Please be careful and consider leaving your dogs at home, conditions can be dangerous for them (and you!).
