Cranbrook

Cranbrook, British Columbia, Canada

Here in Western Canada we are blessed with an abundance of mountains, streams and snowfall. The combination of these adds up to a collection of waterfalls that flow year-round. While most will wait until they return to a roar during the spring runoff or take refuge near one during the heat of the summer, a frozen waterfall in the wintertime is truly a sight to behold.

Lumberton, BC

Moyie Falls is rapidly becoming Cranbrook’s most poorly kept secret. It is a popular short hike at any time of the year but its reputation is well deserved. The Moyie River splits a pair of tall cliffs and pours into a pool below. Note that after a snow fall, access to the falls may be inaccessible for days at a time and can vary with the maintenance of the road. The Lumberton Road is narrow, windy and can be extremely slippery so ensure your tires are adequate. All-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicles may be necessary depending on road conditions.

Marysville Falls Trail

Kimberley, British Columbia, Canada

This may be one of the most recognizable and easily accessed waterfalls in the East Kootenay. Its convenient location off the highway in Marysville (southern part of Kimberley) and its short distance makes it a very popular outing year-round. In Marysville, locate the Marysville Falls signs near the bridge over Mark Creek. There is street parking along the south side of the street or a larger parking area to the north. The walk to Marysville Falls is a short 300 metres that can be quickly dispatched in under 5 minutes even with kids and animals in tow.

Ta Ta Lost Dog Forest Service Rd
Kimberley, BC

Cherry Creek Falls is a hidden gem just outside of Kimberley in the Meadowbrook area. The falls are more of a large waterslide than your textbook waterfall feature, but the easy access and secluded area make for a nice afternoon outing with the dogs, kids, your neighbor… whoever. There are picnic tables and fire pits on site so bring some firewood, smokies and your hot chocolate.

Bull River

Bull River, British Columbia, Canada

Just downstream of the Aberfeldie Dam on the Bull River is a deep narrow canyon whose walls become lined with ice in the wintertime. If it’s not too warm during the winter and the ice is in abundance, you may see climbers testing their skills on these vertical curtains of ice. The best, and safest viewing, is from the bridge over the Bull River.

102 Commerce Rd
Fernie, BC

This popular hike starts right behind the Fernie Visitor Centre just off Highway 3 near the wooden oil derrick. A 2.0km, well-marked hike through a wooded area leads you a waterfall along Fairy Creek. While the best time to visit this one might be in September when the leaves are changing color, it does remain accessible year round. After a heavy snowfall, snowshoes may be required until the trail is broken again. Allow 40 minutes each way for this Fernie favorite.

Cranbrook

Cranbrook, British Columbia, Canada

While there are many other waterfalls to explore in this region, may become inaccessible in the winter without a snowmobile or due to avalanche hazards. Always check weather and road conditions before heading out.