One of the most-visited provincial parks every fall, Shannon Falls (Kwékwetxwm ) is an outdoor gem tucked away near Squamish at the Sea-to-Sky corridor. Visitors flock from across the Lower Mainland to enjoy a day of hiking, picnicking, and exploring the old-growth forest surrounding B.C.’s third-tallest waterfall.

According to Tourism Squamish, the falls’ tumbling waters are particularly thunderous in autumn and spring, making now the ideal time to visit.

An ancient Squamish legend says that the waterfall was created by a two-headed sea serpent that repeatedly slithered up and down the mountainside.

A forested boardwalk trail

The waters flow from Mount Habrich and Mount Sky Pilot, rising 335 metres above Highway 99. Around the base of the falls, visitors can explore a boardwalk and vast trail network that meanders through some of the area’s most impressive trees.

While visible from the road, visitors can get up close to the falls after a short walk along Shannon Creek (350 metres), which leads to a spectacular viewpoint, according to BC Parks. 

The popular day-use park also offers some spectacular rock climbing opportunities, especially on the rock slabs to the south of the falls.

One of the largest granite monoliths in North America

Want to extend your visit with a challenging (yet rewarding) hike? The provincial park connects to the massive cliff face known as the Stawamus Chief, a.k.a. one of the largest granite monoliths in North America.

Divided into three summits, hikers ascend into the clouds, with panoramic views of Howe Sound, Squamish and the peaks of Garibaldi Provincial Park to greet them at each peak.

Shannon Falls Park is open year-round, unless snow levels prevent access through the gate.

Shannon Falls Park 

How to get there: Drive 50 minutes from Vancouver via BC-99 N to Shannon Falls Park in North Vancouver.

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Isabelle Vauclair

Staff Writer, Vancouver – Isabelle is a West Coast native with an appreciation for Vancouver’s natural landscape, patio scene, and community spaces. She loves to discover new hidden gems in her neighbourhood and share them with readers across the city.

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