Crystal Falls Trail
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Crystal Falls Trail

4.6
·491k reviews·Coquitlam, Canada

Discover the hidden beauty of Crystal Falls, an unofficial trail offering a rewarding hike and a stunning waterfall.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Waterfalls are fullest

CrowdLow
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Crystal Falls Trail

Crystal Falls Trail

Best Time

Spring mornings

Waterfalls are fullest

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the hidden beauty of Crystal Falls, an unofficial trail offering a rewarding hike and a stunning waterfall.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Locals say it's officially closed, but the 'Bullet Dodger' trail is the way to go for this hidden gem!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Unofficial Access

Trail is officially closed but used by locals. Access via 'Bullet Dodger' behind the gun club.

👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed

The 'Bullet Dodger' trail is steep and uneven. Wear good hiking shoes for safety.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Falls

Crystal Falls

End of the trail

A beautiful, cascading waterfall offering a serene natural escape. Perfect for photos and a refreshing break.

Bullet Dodger Trail

Bullet Dodger Trail

Access point behind the gun club

An adventurous, unofficial path leading down to the river. Offers a unique and less-traveled route to the falls.

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Planning Your Visit

Trail Access & Status

Crystal Falls Trail's official status can be tricky. While some sources indicate it's closed, locals suggest accessing it via the 'Bullet Dodger' trail behind the gun club. Be prepared for unofficial access and potential private property considerations.

Navigating the Terrain

Expect a moderate hike to reach Crystal Falls. The 'Bullet Dodger' route involves descending to the river, so wear sturdy footwear. The terrain can be uneven, so good hiking shoes are a must for a safe and enjoyable trek.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Waterfalls are fullest
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer hikers on trail
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Come with me to hike Crystal Falls #fyp #hike #coquitlam #crystalfalls #nature #views #bc #waterfalls #summer #photography #trails
@kevokillzvlogs
84 likes • 4.5K views

🤫 Unofficial Access

Trail is officially closed but used by locals. Access via 'Bullet Dodger' behind the gun club. Reddit

👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed

The 'Bullet Dodger' trail is steep and uneven. Wear good hiking shoes for safety. Reddit

Don't forget to pack water, sandwich, and a chocolate bar for this peaceful hike.🌲 #crystalfalls #portcoquitlam #coquitlam #vancouver #canada_life🇨🇦
@letsdoitvlog
24 likes • 488 views
Crystal Falls Trail closure backstory #coquitlam #vancouver #britishcolumbiacheck
@bestcoastbc
274 likes • 14.3K views

💧 Check Water Levels

Falls are most impressive after rain or in spring. Dry spells can reduce flow. Reddit

Explored Crystal Falls in #Vancouver today—a hidden gem that’s worth the trek! Took the challenging Burke Mountain route for some extra adventure. Can’t wait to return in the summer for a swim! #hiking #Waterfall #FYP #coquitlam #beautifulBC #Adventure #outdoors #explore #canada #pnw #wanderlust
@loncouverite
23 likes • 594 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Unofficial Access

Trail is officially closed but used by locals. Access via 'Bullet Dodger' behind the gun club. Reddit

👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed

The 'Bullet Dodger' trail is steep and uneven. Wear good hiking shoes for safety. Reddit

💧 Check Water Levels

Falls are most impressive after rain or in spring. Dry spells can reduce flow. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Crystal Falls Trail offers a beautiful natural escape, with many appreciating the stunning waterfall. However, its unofficial status and the challenging 'Bullet Dodger' access route are frequently mentioned, requiring hikers to be well-prepared and aware of potential access issues.

What People Like

Beautiful waterfall
Secluded feel

What People Dislike

Unofficial access
Steep terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access is unofficial. Locals recommend the 'Bullet Dodger' trail behind the gun club. Be aware of private property signs and potential closures. Reddit

Parking is limited and unofficial, especially near the gun club access point. Arrive early or consider carpooling. Reddit

GPS might not be reliable for unofficial trails. It's best to get directions from locals or use detailed trail maps if available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The trail is officially closed but still used by many. Access is unofficial via the 'Bullet Dodger' trail. Reddit

As the trail is unofficial and often considered closed, no permits are typically required, but be mindful of private property. Reddit

There are no official opening hours due to its unofficial status. It's best to hike during daylight hours for safety. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The hike length can vary depending on the exact route taken, but expect a moderate trek, especially with the descent to the river. Reddit

Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip, as the 'Bullet Dodger' trail can be steep and slippery. Layers are recommended. Reddit

Due to the unofficial access and steep terrain on the 'Bullet Dodger' route, it might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Reddit

Swimming is generally not advised due to strong currents and potentially hidden hazards in the river. Enjoy the view instead. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Adventurous Hikers

For those who love a bit of an off-the-beaten-path experience, Crystal Falls Trail via the 'Bullet Dodger' route is a great choice. You'll appreciate the challenge of the unofficial trail and the reward of reaching a beautiful, less-crowded waterfall. Just be sure to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for a moderate descent. Reddit

Remember that this is an unofficial trail, so pack out everything you pack in and leave no trace. The thrill of discovering this hidden gem is part of the adventure, so embrace the ruggedness and enjoy the natural beauty. Reddit

Nature Photographers

Crystal Falls offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially when the water flow is strong in spring. The cascading water and surrounding natural landscape provide a picturesque scene. The unofficial access via the 'Bullet Dodger' trail can lead to unique vantage points, but be mindful of the terrain when setting up your shots. Reddit

Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light. The natural beauty of the falls, combined with the adventurous access, makes for memorable photos. Just ensure you have a stable way to carry your gear over the uneven ground. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Unofficial Access

Crystal Falls Trail presents a unique challenge due to its unofficial status. While officially closed, local knowledge indicates it remains a popular spot for hikers. The key to accessing it lies in understanding the 'Bullet Dodger' trail, a route that starts behind the local gun club and descends towards the river. This unofficial path is well-used by those in the know, offering a more adventurous way to reach the falls. It's crucial to be aware that you are venturing onto potentially private land and to respect any signage or local guidance. Reddit

This situation means that traditional trail markers or official information might be scarce. Travelers often rely on word-of-mouth or local tips to find their way. The 'Bullet Dodger' trail itself is described as a descent to the river, implying a steeper and potentially more rugged path than a maintained trail. This underscores the importance of preparedness and caution when exploring this area. Reddit

What to Expect on the Trail

The hike to Crystal Falls via the 'Bullet Dodger' route is not for the faint of heart. Hikers should anticipate an uneven and potentially steep terrain, especially during the descent to the river. This makes sturdy hiking footwear with good traction absolutely essential. The unofficial nature of the trail means you won't find manicured paths; instead, expect natural obstacles and a more rugged experience. Reddit

Given the terrain, it's advisable to pack essentials like water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit. The beauty of Crystal Falls is its natural, untamed setting, but this also means being prepared for the elements and the trail conditions. While the falls themselves are a reward, the journey requires a certain level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. Reddit

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