Shannon Falls Provincial Park Vancouver
BC's 3rd highest waterfall, plunging 335m. A stunning, accessible natural wonder on the Sea-to-Sky Highway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Shannon Falls Provincial Park Vancouver
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
BC's 3rd highest waterfall, plunging 335m. A stunning, accessible natural wonder on the Sea-to-Sky Highway.
"Absolutely amazing! Conveniently located with easy parking and a safe trail that leads to stunning views."
👟 Wear grippy shoes!
Essential for climbing rocks near the falls. Barefoot is also an option for easier climbing.
🚫 No swimming in pools
Extremely dangerous. Influencers have been called out for promoting unsafe areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shannon Falls' Majestic Plunge
Base of the falls
Witness BC's third-highest waterfall cascade 335 meters down sheer cliffs. A truly awe-inspiring natural spectacle.
Rocky Ascent to Serene Spots
Near the base of the falls
Climb the rocks for a closer, more intimate experience with the powerful water and find peaceful spots to relax.
Scenic Trail Through Old-Growth Forest
Trail leading to the falls
Enjoy a tranquil hike surrounded by the scent of cedar and fir, leading to the roaring waterfall.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Safety First: Respect the Water
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear grippy shoes!
Essential for climbing rocks near the falls. Barefoot is also an option for easier climbing.
🚫 No swimming in pools
Extremely dangerous. Influencers have been called out for promoting unsafe areas.
🚗 Parking can be full
If the main lot is full, try parking across the street.
💧 Bring waterproof gear
The mist from the falls can be intense.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear grippy shoes!
Essential for climbing rocks near the falls. Barefoot is also an option for easier climbing.
🚫 No swimming in pools
Extremely dangerous. Influencers have been called out for promoting unsafe areas.
🚗 Parking can be full
If the main lot is full, try parking across the street.
💧 Bring waterproof gear
The mist from the falls can be intense.
📸 Capture the scale
Get closer to the falls for dramatic photos, but stay safe!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Shannon Falls for its breathtaking natural beauty and accessibility, highlighting the impressive cascade and the opportunity to get close to the water. Many appreciate the free entry and the short, easy walk to the main viewpoint, making it a great stop for families and day-trippers. However, some caution is advised regarding the dangerous, unofficial swimming spots that are often promoted on social media.
"Shannon falls is a gem of a spot to spend your day. Parking lot was full when we got there but there was plenty of parking available across the street.
Short 4min walk and you come to the base of the falls where you come across clear water flowing and people enjoying nature.
My kids 8 and 10 were adventurous enough to climb quite a bit through the rocks to get to a some serene spots, where we were able to sit and enjoy some snacks.
Highly recommend to visit this place, take the short hike to also get some good photos a bit closer to the falls.
Don’t forget to drink the water directly from the flowing stream as it’s just nature at its best. Love love love..
Oh do remember to wear shoes with good grip or keep your shoes at the base of the falls and go bare feet as it’s much easier to climb up."
Arisha Wickramasinghe
"This place is absolutely amazing! It’s conveniently located with easy parking and a safe trail that leads to stunning views. You can even climb around the rocks near the waterfall, which adds to the fun. The atmosphere is beautiful and serene, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing day outdoors. Best of all, there’s no entrance fee! I highly recommend visiting if you're looking for a great outdoor experience. You won’t be disappointed!"
Marina Garvey
"Great spot to quickly get a few steps in! Quick easy hike to a pretty awesome view of the falls. There is a second view of the falls further up a set of stairs with a great view as well.
Overall, it is a fairly easy and accessible walk with great views all around."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shannon Falls Provincial Park is about a 47-minute drive (59 km) from Vancouver via BC-97. Many visitors use this as a stop along the Sea-to-Sky Highway.
While direct public transport to the park is limited, you can take a bus towards Squamish from Vancouver and inquire about local connections or stops near the falls.
Absolutely! Shannon Falls is conveniently located on the Sea-to-Sky Highway, making it a perfect, easily accessible stop on your way to or from Whistler.
The drive is scenic, following the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Be prepared for winding roads and potential traffic, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, nearby attractions include The Chief in Squamish, Lynn Canyon Park (often cited as an underrated alternative to Capilano), and Golden Ears Provincial Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Shannon Falls Provincial Park is free to enter, making it an accessible and popular natural attraction.
Shannon Falls Provincial Park is generally open year-round during daylight hours. Always check the official BC Parks website for any seasonal closures or advisories.
No advance booking or tickets are required for general park access. However, if you plan to camp, reservations are highly recommended and often necessary.
The main trail to the base of the falls is relatively short and easy, but climbing the rocks is not accessible. Check BC Parks for specific accessibility details.
Yes, Shannon Falls can be visited in winter. Parts of the waterfall may be frozen, offering a unique and beautiful spectacle. Be prepared for cold weather and potentially icy conditions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the towering waterfall, hike short trails to viewing areas, and carefully climb rocks near the base for a closer experience. It's also a popular spot for photography and enjoying nature.
Absolutely not. The pools around Shannon Falls are extremely dangerous due to strong currents and cold temperatures. Many rescues and even fatalities have occurred here.
There are no official trails that lead to the very top of Shannon Falls. The main accessible trails lead to viewing areas at the base and along the cliff face.
Yes, Shannon Falls Provincial Park is pet-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
While not guaranteed, you might spot birds of prey, small mammals, and if you're lucky, perhaps even deer in the surrounding forest.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, reducing harsh shadows and creating a more dramatic effect. Midday sun can be very bright.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls. A tripod can help with long exposures to smooth the water, especially in lower light.
Yes, there are several viewpoints. The base offers a powerful perspective, and a set of stairs leads to a higher viewpoint for a different angle.
Be prepared for mist by protecting your camera gear. The mist can add a dramatic, ethereal quality to your photos, especially with a faster shutter speed.
Try capturing the contrast between the powerful water and the serene forest, or focus on the textures of the wet rocks. The sheer height of the falls is also a key element.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Be prepared for mist, which can add an ethereal quality to your shots, but also protect your gear. 🚗 Day-Trippers from Vancouver
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Dangers of Shannon Falls Pools
The primary risks associated with these pools include extremely cold water temperatures, strong and unpredictable currents, and slippery, unstable rock surfaces. The sheer force of the water cascading down can create dangerous undertows, and the rocks are often covered in moss, making them treacherous to navigate. Tragically, these factors have contributed to multiple fatalities and numerous rescues over the years.
It's crucial for visitors to understand that these areas are not designated for swimming or recreational water activities. Prioritizing safety over social media trends is paramount. Stick to marked trails and designated viewing areas, and always heed any posted warnings. The beauty of Shannon Falls can be appreciated from a safe distance without risking your life.
Hiking and Trail Experiences
For those seeking a bit more adventure, there are opportunities to scramble over rocks near the base of the falls. This allows for a more intimate encounter with the spray and the roar of the water. Reviewers suggest wearing shoes with good grip or going barefoot for better traction on the wet rocks.
While the immediate area around the falls is the main draw, the park is situated along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, a gateway to more extensive hiking opportunities in the region. Visitors looking for longer, more challenging hikes might consider nearby trails like The Chief in Squamish, which offers stunning views and a more strenuous workout.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit