The scenic beauty of Cranbrook and Kimberley, BC, is not just limited to their charming towns and vibrant communities. The natural landscapes surrounding these areas are home to some breathtaking waterfalls that are perfect for a day trip or a weekend adventure. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these waterfalls is a must-do activity. Here are some of the most stunning waterfalls in the Cranbrook and Kimberley areas that you should add to your itinerary.
Waterfalls In Cranbrook
Lumberton Falls
This quick ~2km roundtrip hike starts down a gravel road before requiring a bit of rock hopping and wading through water before reaching an impressive waterfall descending down the river. Depending on the time of year, the water flow varies greatly providing a different experience each time you venture out to enjoy this popular waterfall. During summer months it’s a great spot for a picnic on a hot day where you can cool down in the flowing water, all within a 20-minute walk from your vehicle.
How to get here:
From Cranbrook head south on highway 3 & 95 towards Creston for ~13km. Turn right on Lumberton Road and continue on this well-maintained gravel road for just over 7km. Turn left into a small parking lot and continue further down to reach the trailhead. The trail begins behind a yellow gate.
*NOTE: Lumberton Falls (or Moyie Falls as some know it) is accessed through an active mining claim owned privately. The road past the gate is maintained annually by them. There is also a less invasive trail that follows the right of the river to gain view of the falls from above.
Furthermore, due to high water levels close access to the falls might be restricted. Please use caution.
Perry Creek Falls
This is one of the most popular waterfall hikes in our area, and for good reason! Though slippery and steep at times, this ~2.6km round trip hike can be completed in under an hour and provides views of a remarkable waterfall surrounded by smooth rocks that have
undergone years of erosion from the rapidly flowing water. Bright-coloured moss acts as a stark contrast to the dark rocks and whitewater making for a striking and scenic adventure.
How to get here:
From Cranbrook head north on 95A up to Kimberley. Take a left on Wycliffe Park Road before reaching Shadow Mountain Golf Restory. Turn left on Old Wycliffe Road and continue for about 1km before turning right on Perry Creek Road. This road turns into a well-maintained gravel road. Follow it for about 10km before parking at a yellow gate at the start of the trail.
Marysville Falls
One of the most popular waterfalls in the Kimberley area, Marysville Falls is easily accessible and offers a fantastic view. The falls are part of the St. Mary River, and a well-maintained boardwalk leads you to the viewing platform. The short walk from the parking area is suitable for all ages, making it a perfect spot for a family outing. The roar of the falls and the mist in the air provide a refreshing experience, especially on a hot day.
How to get there:
From Kimberley, take Highway 95A south to the small community of Marysville. The falls are signposted, and there is ample parking available.
Meachen Creek Falls
A very quick and easy walk to Meachen Creek falls is a great spot to stretch your legs after a long scenic drive. Start the hike by entering the forested path and following for 300 meters to a T-junction - wandering right will take you along many lookout points and great views of the falls tumbling into the large canyon below. For the more daring hiker, go left at the T-junction to explore the rocks at the mouth of the waterfall which present a unique opportunity looking down onto the falls crashing below.
How to get here:
From Cranbrook head north on 95A towards Kimberley. After going through the town of Marysville, turn left onto St Mary’s Lake Road. You will continue on this road for a while before turning left onto St Mary River FSR that crosses a bridge over St Mary River (if you reach the lake you’ve gone too far). Take your second right onto Hellroaring Creek Road, this is a sharp hairpin turn. Take your first right onto Meachen Creek Road and continue for 8km before parking at a wide pullout on the right-hand side at the 34km sign. The trailhead is just before the parking lot; it is not signed but is well-used.
Cherry Creek Falls
From the parking lot, it will only take a few minutes to come upon this marvelous waterfall that slides down to a whitewater pool below. There is a wooden staircase that allows you to go to the bottom of the falls to get the picture-perfect view of the waters flowing towards you.
Several picnic tables are available at the top of the falls so you can take your time enjoying all the beauty this hidden gem has to offer.
How to get here:
From Cranbrook head north on 95A towards Kimberley. Continue through the town of Kimberley, following signage to stay on 95A. After passing through Kimberley, turn left onto Thomason Road. Take your first right onto Clarricoates Road, this road is paved but does turn into a gravel road as it becomes Ta Ta Lost Dog Forest Service Road. Continue on this now-gravel road for less than 1km before turning right into the parking lot for the falls.
Fairy Creek Falls
Tucked away on the north side of Fernie, this easy ~5km roundtrip trail starts with a few switchbacks and continues through open forest trails before reaching the breathtaking Fairy Creek Falls. Mount Fernie and various other peaks provide a stunning backdrop throughout the entire hike making for a pleasant stroll ending in a picturesque waterfall. The trail is open all year, so make sure to include this waterfall on your hiking list year-round to take in the beauty of the falls in any season.
How to get here:
From Cranbrook head north on highway 3 & 95 towards Fernie. Continue through the town of Fernie, turning left onto Commerce Road to access the Fernie Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Information Centre parking lot. The well-used trail starts here; posted maps are available at the start of the trail network.
Lussier Hot Springs
While not a traditional waterfall, the Lussier Hot Springs area near Canal Flats features cascading thermal waters that create a unique and picturesque environment. The natural hot springs are located in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park and offer a relaxing soak with stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. The thermal waters cascade down rocks into several pools, providing a one-of-a-kind waterfall experience.
How to get there:
From Cranbrook, drive north on Highway 93/95, then take the Whiteswan Lake exit. Follow the signs to the Lussier Hot Springs parking area.
Tips for Visiting Waterfalls:
Safety First: Always stay on designated trails and viewing platforms. Wet rocks can be slippery, so take care when near the water.
Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and a camera. If you're hiking, wear sturdy shoes and check the weather forecast.
Leave No Trace: Respect nature by carrying out all your trash and not disturbing the natural environment.
Exploring the waterfalls around Cranbrook and Kimberley offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the natural beauty of British Columbia. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a more challenging hike, there’s a waterfall adventure waiting for you. So grab your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and set out to discover these stunning natural wonders!
By Brandi O’Neill
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