Top 20 Waterfalls in the Coast Mountains
Waterfalls in the Coast Mountains are a prominent feature of the region's natural landscape. This area, primarily in British Columbia, Canada, is characterized by lush rainforests and dramatic mountain scenery. The Coast Mountains offer diverse waterfall experiences, from accessible cascades to remote, towering plunges. These natural formations are often set amidst significant geographic features.
Best waterfalls in the Coast Mountains
- The most popular waterfalls is Nairn Falls, a waterfall that features water cascading in several stages over 60 meters. The water has created several swirl holes in the surrounding rock.
- Another must-see spot is Shannon Falls, a waterfall often described as one of the highest in British Columbia. The main fall alone has a height of 198 meters, with the total height estimated at around 250 to 335 meters.
- Visitors also love Brandywine Falls, a waterfall plunging 59 meters into a deep canyon. An easy walk leads to a viewing platform offering vistas of the falls and surrounding mountains.
- Coast Mountains is known for powerful plunges, serene veil-like descents, and towering giants. The region offers a variety of waterfalls, ranging from easily accessible cascades to remote, multi-day destinations.
- The waterfalls in the Coast Mountains are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 90 upvotes and over 90 photos shared.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Nairn Falls
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Brandywine Falls
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Shannon Falls
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Baden-Powell Trail – Lynn Canyon Park Section
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Joffre Lakes Trail
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bcparks.ca/reservations/day-use-passes/#joffre-lakes
Registration is required to ensure a manageable number of hikers in the park – a maximum of 500 people per day.
The trail leads to the park's three lakes: Lower Lake, Middle Lake, and Upper Lake. The Lower Joffre Lake is just a few hundred meters from the parking lot. Joffre Lakes Park is known for its turquoise lakes and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks; the base of the Matier Glacier is visible. Below the Upper Joffre Lake, Holloway Falls plunge into the depths. The trail ends at Upper Joffre Lake, but it is possible to continue along the western shore to the Joffre Lakes Backcountry Campground and further to the southern end of the lake, where rushing streams carry the waters of the Matier Glacier.
(Visit May 28, 2025)
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Rainbow Falls
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Nugget Falls
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View of Twin Falls from Twin Falls Bridge
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Holloway Falls
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Kennedy Falls
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Tips from the Community
Mendenhall Waterfall, also known as "Nugget Falls," is located on beautiful Mendenhall Lake. From there, you also have a good view of the Mendenhall Glacier. You can easily get to the starting point from Juneau by bus or car. However, Juneau itself can only be reached by plane or boat.
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At Rainbow Falls, the roaring waters of Twentyone Mile Creek cascade steeply down the narrow gorge in several spectacular cascades and steps – a total drop of about 27 meters. The mountain stream flows about 100 meters down into Alta Creek, which connects Alta Lake with Green Lake. Rainbow Falls can be visited at any time of year; the water levels in Twentyone Mile Creek are at their highest in May and early June, and at their lowest during the summer months. In winter, the creek's water may be frozen. (Visit May 29, 2025) https://www.worldwaterfalldatabase.com/index.php/waterfall/Rainbow-Falls-2055
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Access to the Joffre Lakes Trail is located at the top of a pass. Joffre Creek drains west into the Lillooet River, while Cayoosh Creek flows east and empties into Duffey Lake, which drains into the Fraser River. During the summer months, you must register for the Joffre Lakes Trail free of charge – for information, see the following website: https://bcparks.ca/reservations/day-use-passes/#joffre-lakes Registration is required to ensure a manageable number of hikers in the park – a maximum of 500 people per day. The trail leads to the park's three lakes: Lower Lake, Middle Lake, and Upper Lake. The Lower Joffre Lake is just a few hundred meters from the parking lot. Joffre Lakes Park is known for its turquoise lakes and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks; the base of the Matier Glacier is visible. Below the Upper Joffre Lake, Holloway Falls plunge into the depths. The trail ends at Upper Joffre Lake, but it is possible to continue along the western shore to the Joffre Lakes Backcountry Campground and further to the southern end of the lake, where rushing streams carry the waters of the Matier Glacier. (Visit May 28, 2025)
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The rushing Holloway Falls lies between Middle and Upper Joffre Lakes - just a short walk off the Joffre Lakes Trail. As you approach the waterfall, the spray provides some cooling on hot days. Large, eroded boulders lie at the edge of the cascading waterfall, and several logs are stuck in the stream bed. (Visit May 28, 2025)
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A few kilometers before the town of Pemberton, the Green River cascades down a gorge to form Nairn Falls. Access to the falls is via Highway 99, about 25 km east of Whistler. From the large parking lot, the falls are reached after 1,500 meters on a beautiful, almost level forest trail. The water cascades approximately 36 meters into the gorge in two stages. https://www.worldwaterfalldatabase.com/waterfall/Nairn-Falls-2062 Nairn Falls are popular and attract numerous visitors, partly due to the convenient location of the parking lot directly on Highway 99. https://bcparks.ca/nairn-falls-park/
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The approximately 48-kilometer-long Baden-Powell Trail stretches from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver to Deep Cove in North Vancouver and leads through the densely forested North Shore Mountains. A section of the trail, approximately three kilometers long, runs through Lynn Canyon Park - from Lillooet Road in the south to Dempsey Road near the bus stop. https://hiiker.app/trails/british-columbia/greater-vancouver/baden-powell-trail/map
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From the southern vantage point of Brandywine Falls, you have a magnificent view of Daisy Lake Reservoir and Black Tusk Mountain in the Garibaldi Ranges of the Coast Mountains. The Daisy Lake Reservoir was created in 1926 after the construction of the Cheakamus Dam; the dam was replaced in 1984. The reservoir is part of the Cheakamus Hydroelectric Power Plant on the Squamish River. https://www.bchydro.com/energy-in-bc/operations/transmission-reservoir-data/previous-reservoir-elevations/lower-mainland/daisy_lake_dsy.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which waterfalls in the Coast Mountains are suitable for families?
Many waterfalls in the Coast Mountains are family-friendly, offering easy access and short walks. Shannon Falls, for example, is easily accessible with a short walk from the parking lot. Brandywine Falls also features an easy 1 km walk to a viewing platform. Additionally, Alexander Falls (Callaghan Valley) is accessible directly by car with a viewing platform, requiring no hiking.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls in the Coast Mountains?
The spring season is particularly powerful for many waterfalls due to snowmelt, offering impressive flows. However, most waterfalls are accessible and beautiful throughout the warmer months. Some, like Norvan Falls, can even be visited in winter, offering a unique partially frozen sight.
Are there any waterfalls in the Coast Mountains that offer a quieter, less crowded experience?
Yes, if you're looking for a quieter experience, Alexander Falls in Callaghan Valley is considered a relatively well-kept secret. It's easily accessible by car but often sees fewer crowds than some of the more prominent falls along the Sea-to-Sky Highway.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the waterfalls?
The waterfalls in the Coast Mountains are set amidst diverse natural features. You'll find lush rainforests, deep gorges like at Brandywine Falls, and dramatic mountain scenery. Many trails lead through dense forests, offering views of rivers and unique rock formations, such as the swirl holes created by the water at Nairn Falls.
Are there opportunities for hiking near the waterfalls in the Coast Mountains?
Absolutely. Many waterfalls are integrated into hiking trails. For instance, the Baden-Powell Trail includes a section through Lynn Canyon Park where you can find Twin Falls. Norvan Falls requires a 14 km roundtrip hike, and the Brandywine Gorge Loop offers hiking opportunities. For more hiking options, explore the Running Trails in the Coast Mountains guide, which includes routes like the Nugget Falls Trail.
Can I find any waterfalls that are known for unique visual effects?
Yes, Nairn Falls is notable for its water cascading in several stages and the fascinating swirl holes it has carved into the rock. Bridal Veil Falls (Chilliwack) is named for its distinctive veil-like effect as water cascades over a smooth rock face.
What are some of the most impressive waterfalls in terms of height in the Coast Mountains?
The Coast Mountains are home to some truly towering waterfalls. Shannon Falls is often cited as one of the highest in British Columbia, with its main fall alone reaching 198 meters and a total height estimated between 250 to 335 meters. James Bruce Falls, though remote, is thought to be the tallest in BC at 840 meters, and Della Falls on Vancouver Island holds the title of Canada's highest at 440 meters.
Are there any waterfalls that are easily accessible by car with minimal walking?
Yes, Alexander Falls in Callaghan Valley is easily accessible by car, with a viewing platform conveniently located next to the parking lot, requiring no hiking. This makes it a great option for those seeking minimal walking.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls?
Beyond hiking, the Coast Mountains offer various outdoor activities. You can find cycling routes, including gravel biking, near many waterfall areas. For instance, the Cycling in the Coast Mountains guide features routes like the Rainbow Falls Trailhead loop. The Gravel biking in the Coast Mountains guide also provides options for exploring the region on two wheels.
Where can I see a waterfall from a unique vantage point, like a bridge?
At Twin Falls in North Vancouver, a wooden bridge serves as an excellent viewing platform, allowing you to see the falls from above. Similarly, Cascade Falls (Mission) offers views from a suspension bridge hanging over the canyon, providing a unique perspective of the water's descent.
Are there any waterfalls that are part of a provincial park and offer additional amenities?
Yes, Bridal Veil Falls is located within a provincial park near Chilliwack, which features a day-use area perfect for picnicking and hiking. Nairn Falls is also within a Provincial Park Campground, offering a short walk to the falls from a forested setting.
What do visitors particularly appreciate about the waterfalls in the Coast Mountains?
Visitors frequently appreciate the dramatic beauty and accessibility of many waterfalls. The lush greenery, powerful water flows, and the opportunity for scenic walks or hikes are often highlighted. The community has shared over 90 photos and given more than 90 upvotes to the waterfalls in the Coast Mountains, reflecting their popularity and visual appeal.
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Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls in the Coast Mountains:
