From fireworks and lightning to sleeping puppies, there are certain things that are practically dessert for your eyes. Need a change of scenery and crave something spectacular? Check out one of these 15 waterfalls in Alberta! Every single one of them will take your breath away. Enjoy!

*Editors Note: Swimming, climbing, jumping or diving into any waterfall, on this list or otherwise, is not recommended unless permitted with official signage. Please visit these sites cautiously! 

RAM FALLS

Photographed by some of Alberta’s best, Ram Falls is not one to miss. No matter the time of year or even the time of day, this place is insanely photogenic even if you’re not a pro behind the lens.

Where: Directions here
Distance from Calgary: 266 km
Distance from Edmonton: 315 km

CRESCENT FALLS

Located in a campground of the same name, Crescent Falls is another powerful waterway, in fact, there are two -one right after another. Sadly, this location will be closed until June 2023, but it’s worth keeping on your list.

Where: Directions here
Distance from Calgary: 324 km
Distance from Edmonton: 321 km

SILVERTON FALLS

A busier trail, the hike to Silverton Falls is pretty easy – meaning that the payoff is beyond worth it – also, like all the best waterfalls you can get pretty up close and personal to the base of it, which is always fun!

Where: Directions here
Distance from Calgary: 157 km
Distance from Edmonton: 446 km

SIFFLEUR FALLS

 

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A series of three different waterfalls, Siffleur is located just north of Banff National Park a short distance from the David Thompson Highway. To be perfectly honest, this place looks like an enchanted forest and shouldn’t be missed if you’re in the area. It’s pretty dang underrated and will completely stun you from the right angle.

Where: Directions here
Distance from Calgary: 286 km
Distance from Edmonton: 361 km

ATHABASCA FALLS

Ah, Jasper. If you’ve never been, it’s an Alberta must. This waterfall in particular is a tourist favourite. It’s big, beautiful and fairly easy to get to. See this one from above or below on the viewing platform, every angle is a good angle.

Where: Improvement District No. 12, Jasper National Park, AB
Distance from Calgary:  381 km
Distance from Edmonton:  368 km

TANGLE CREEK FALLS

 

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Tangle Creek is what most would describe only as ‘breathtaking.’ This waterfall doesn’t really ‘fall’, it kind of cascades down the rocks. Also, it’s impossible to miss because it’s literally on the side of the road – it might even spray your vehicle as you drive by.

Where: Icefields Pkwy, Improvement District No. 12, AB
Distance from Calgary: 316 km
Distance from Edmonton: 445 km

LOWER PANTHER FALLS


Located in Banff National Park, not far from the Icefields Parkway, Lower Panther Falls is one of the province’s best-kept secrets. With a 218 feet drop, this beautiful waterfall makes a serious impact and looks incredibly powerful. Trust us, it’s worth the 1.6 km hike!

Where: See directions here
Distance from Calgary: 297 km
Distance from Edmonton: 424 km

BOW GLACIER FALLS

 

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Lake Louise is ridiculously good-looking. You’ll find Bow Glacier Falls a few kilometres up a heavily trafficked hiking trail, but don’t worry! It’s nothing you won’t be able to handle, no matter your experience. Bring your dogs, bird watch and then enjoy the incredible payoff. This place is outstanding.

Where: Hwy. 93 North, Improvement District No. 9, AB
Distance from Calgary: 220 km
Distance from Edmonton: 429 km

MALIGNE CANYON

Maligne, the ‘deepest canyon in the Rockies’ is an all-season beauty. The hike up to this one is almost as beautiful as the waterfall itself, and it’s not super difficult either! The easy-to-follow trail will take you over 6 scenic bridges – if you’re an expert or 2 if you’re looking for something light and enjoyable!

Where: Directions here – Jasper National Park, AB
Distance from Calgary: 459 km
Distance from Edmonton: 404 km

LOWER BERTHA FALLS

 

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Lower Bertha Falls is a light hike through wildflowers and greenery. Surrounded by towering trees, moss and rock, this incredibly picturesque waterfall is honestly, kind of magical. Trust us, this one is well worth the exercise. Once you’re there, have a snack and enjoy nature’s best.

Where: Directions here – Waterton, AB
Distance from Calgary: 279 km
Distance from Edmonton: 564 km

CAMERON FALLS


Cameron Falls looks like something a Disney Imagineer would have drawn up. It’s very ‘Pride Rock’ meets splash mountain. This is by far one of Waterton’s most photographed spots and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Alberta, and it’s obvious why. A. There’s no hiking, climbing or extreme GPS-ing needed to find this place and B. it’s absolutely gorgeous.

Where: Directions here – Waterton, AB
Distance from Calgary: 273 km
Distance from Edmonton: 563 km

BRIDAL VEIL FALLS


At 1,200 feet, Bridal Veil Falls is a must-visit. This isn’t one you want to get too close to because its beauty lies in its incredible drop down the mountain, so you won’t need to hike, but you will have to take a bit of a walk.

Where: Improvement District No. 9, Banff, AB
Distance from Calgary: 295 km
Distance from Edmonton: 424 km

ELBOW FALLS

 

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Elbow Falls is made up of several little waterfalls, but it’s a beautiful, quiet spot great for having lunch, seeing wildlife and getting some fresh air. There are not very many places where you can grab a bite this close to a waterfall, comfortably… no one wants a wet sandwich.

Where: AB-66, Bragg Creek
Distance from Calgary: 64 km
Distance from Edmonton: 359 km

LUNDBRECK FALLS

Just off the Crowsnest Highway, you’ll find Lundbreck Falls. Camp, fish, relax or just hang for a while and have lunch next to this big blue wonder. The pool is deep, the observation decks are easy to access, and it photographs like a dream.

Where: Range Rd 24B, Lundbreck, AB
Distance from Calgary: 209 km
Distance from Edmonton: 498 km

JOHNSTON CANYON

 

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This is a pretty popular one for those who know the Banff/Canmore area well. Johnston Canyon is a nice hike suitable for all skill levels and offers several waterfall viewpoints on your way up. In the summer, fall or winter, we’d definitely recommend checking this one out.

Where: Bow Valley Pkwy, Improvement District No. 9, AB
Distance from Calgary: 163 km
Distance from Edmonton: 452 km

There you have it, friends. The most picturesque waterfalls in Alberta. Fancy a little road trip? We’ve got a killer playlist and a pantry of snacks. Siri, Play TLC – Crazy, Sexy, Cool track 8.

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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