Easy Waterfall Hikes in the Fraser Valley

Autumn is one of the best times to visit waterfalls. After a long, hot summer, the creeks are flush with water again, creating beautiful cascades. Most of the Fraser Valley’s waterfall hikes are short and easy, making them ideal for a quick after-school walk with the kids or a weekend jaunt between rain showers. Is there anything better than strolling along a leaf-strewn trail with the sound of flowing falls in the distance?

Waterfall Safety:

While beautiful, waterfalls are also dangerous. Many have claimed at least one victim, with some even in the double-digits. Most mishaps occur above the falls, when people slip and fall into the river or deliberately swim there. Drowning occurs due to currents pinning people underwater or against submerged rock formations. This can also happen when swimming in pools directly below waterfalls. Falls can also cause traumatic injury. Fences, barricades, and signage are there to protect you. Spray from waterfalls creates slippery rocks, and river currents can be deceptive.

• Do not climb waterfalls.
• Do not jump from waterfalls.
• Do not swim above or below waterfalls .
• Stay on marked trails.
• Stay behind all fences and barricades.

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Maple Ridge

Cliff Falls

Located in Kanaka Creek Regional Park, Cliff Falls is the highlight of a stroll through lush forest. Through an easy set of walking trails in the park, you can create a walk up to 4 km long. The trails can be accessed via parking lots at Cliff Park or the Bell-Irving Fish Hatchery.

Gold Creek Falls

The Gold Creek Falls Trail starts from the Gold Creek parking lot in Golden Ears Provincial Park, which boasts some of the most beautiful coastal temperate rainforest around. This flat, easy trail is scenic with multiple accesses to the creek. After reaching the viewing platform, you can return the same way or head uphill to the East Canyon Trail to make a loop. Note: There is also an Upper Gold Creek Falls, but there is no sanctioned trail access.

Mission

Cascade Falls

Cascade Falls is a favourite of photographers. A short, uphill gravel trail leads to two viewing platforms, with a suspension bridge across the creek connecting them. For an extra gorgeous experience, check it out in freezing temperatures after a snowfall. Fun fact: the log spanning the cliffs in front of the falls has been there for many decades.

Rolley Falls

Many people don’t know that there are actually two sets of Rolley Falls. Both are best reached through Rolley Lake Provincial Park, though it’s also possible to hike up to them from Florence Lake FSR. Outside the park, the trail can be poorly maintained.

The upper falls is a wide, flat cascade that can be viewed from a footbridge crossing Rolley Creek. Farther down the trail, the second set of falls is no longer clearly visible from the trail itself; however, many people take a short, rugged path off-trail to get a closer look. Do so at your own risk. Fun fact: The hole near the base of the main falls is an old exploratory mine shaft that is just a couple metres deep.

Steelhead Falls

This quick but beautiful walk is mostly flat except for the trail down to the falls. From the Reservoir Trail parking lot, head down the well-groomed Reservoir Trail and enjoy lush forest along the way. After crossing the second creek, the Steelhead Falls Trail is on the right. The walk to this pretty tiered waterfall is a favourite of families.

Bonus: McDonald Falls

A short drive up Lost Creek FSR leads to this short but rough trail down to McDonald Falls. Park at the pullout just after Murdo Creek Bridge. While the falls are located within Davis Lake Provincial Park, the park itself is undeveloped and heavily damaged by vandalism and off-roaders. Bring a garbage bag along if you feel like helping to keep the area beautiful.

Abbotsford

Devon Falls

A short little stroll from Harvest Drive leads to pretty little Devon Falls in Bassani Park. The closest parking is in a residential neighbourhood, so please be respectful of residents and homes. There is an extensive network of trails in the area, so be mindful that you don’t take a wrong turn and get lost.

Hope and Chilliwack

Flood Falls

Also just off Highway 1, Flood Falls is at the end of a short trail. Cascading down a steep rock face, these falls are especially good after rainfall.

Bridal Veil Falls

Known locally as Bridal Falls, this misty set of falls, not unlike a bride’s veil, is located in Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park. Easily accessible off Highway 1, it’s one of the most popular waterfalls in the Fraser Valley. A short, easy trail leads to a viewing platform and a fun outing for families. Note: Please stay on designated trails and don’t climb the slope beyond the viewing area.

Too rainy to hike? Check out my list of must-read BC books and how to stay mentally healthy during the rainy season.