Hiking Spotlight: High Falls

If you love waterfalls then you don’t want to miss the High Falls Creek trail. Along the trail, the views of the Squamish Valley and the Tantalus Range are unparalleled. Many people consider it one of the most awe-inspiring and scenic trailheads in the region.

A Dangerous Trail That Requires Caution

The High Falls Creek is not a trail for novices or families. It is dangerous and steep. Individuals who have a fear of heights should skip this one. The desire to stick your head out over the edge is often overwhelming but you should avoid the temptation because you can easily slip and fall to your death. This is a very real danger. Several experienced hikers have lost their lives on this trail. In order to safely traverse this trail, you must remain extremely cautious.

The Start of the Trail

After parking your car, you will walk across the bridge and head towards a gravel road. At the gravel road, you should see a sign and trail markers that clearly show the route to High Falls. You will follow the trail into the forest. Take a few moments to enjoy the sound of the High Creek as it flows through the trees.

The Climb Up

A short distance down the trail there is a large rock that denotes the start of the uphill climb. You must use both your hands and legs to get over the many rocks. As you scramble up the rocks you will get a glimpse of a lovely view. While climbing, be sure to watch for the markers so you don’t lose the trail.

Ropes Help in Steep Areas

There are ropes along the trail to help you to pull yourself up in areas that are extremely steep. At this point, you can opt to take a short side road to see the falls and the steep canyon. Take great care not to get too close to the edge while you enjoy the view.

The View of the Falls

Once you are back on the main trail, you will continue climbing for about 20 minutes. At this point, you will be able to enjoy the full view of the falls. There is also a huge boulder wedged between the staggeringly rugged granite rock walls that is widely photographed.

Squamish Valley

The pathway continues to get steeper. There is a rocky bluff that offers a panoramic view of the Squamish Valley. The Squamish River cuts through the valley and is showcased by the Tantalus Range in the background.

The Upper Falls

The trail takes you into a small forest and there you will reach a junction. Take a right at the junction. The trail is downhill at this point and you will be able to see the upper falls. Stay back from the edge because the stones and dirt often give way. You will be close enough to the falls to feel the cool mist.

The Trail’s End

Walk up the trail to the ridge where the walking levels out. You will have many viewpoints along the way as you enter a forest filled with Western Cedar trees and large Douglas Fir. As the trail reaches a gravel field you should emerge onto a logging road. Go left along the road to a log bench and take a rest before continuing on the gravel road into the valley. Walk for about 5 kilometers until the gravel road finally meets the Squamish Valley Road which runs alongside the river. Turn left and continue for 20 minutes until you reach your car.