Shannon Falls Provincial Park Photos
More like Shannon Falls Provincial Park
Recommended Reviews - Shannon Falls Provincial Park
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Definitely a breathtaking view! We drove here and then parked in their parking lot and took a short hike to see the base of the waterfall. I believe you could hike further, but I don't know if it gave better views of it later on. We had handicapped people with us, so we only stopped at the bottom of the falls to take some photos. I liked that they had a handicapped path and a normal path that was prettier. There were restrooms and portable restrooms available for visitors to use at the beginning of the park.
Shannon Falls was beautiful and the creek had the clearest water. Made me want to have a drink. Meandering through a moss covered forest to get to Shannon Falls was just magical for me. I loved every inch of that forest and the lush green moss covering tree trunks and branches. The ferns were so alive and pretty. I could forest bath here all day if I had the time. The sight and sounds of water rushing was so peaceful and tranquil. Could not get enough of this enchanting forest!
This waterfall is about a halfway point from Vancouver to Whistler, and is near the Sea to Sky Gondola. We visited on a Thursday at around 4:30. There were a good amount of people there at that time, but it wasn't packed - we were able to get a parking spot (which is free). The hike to the falls is easy and quick - maybe 10 minutes? All in all, we spent maybe half hour getting there/back, and taking photos. If you live in the area, it seems like a nice park for a picnic since there is a huge open space, and some picnic tables. Nice, quick, scenic stop - the best kind!
Shannon Falls is a definite stopover when heading to Squamish or Whistler! Speaking of Squamish & Whistler, please see my reviews on both locations under - District of Squamish & Whistler Resort Municipality. Shannon Falls is British Columbia's 3rd largest waterfall - 335 metres or over 1000 feet high. I've stopped by Shannon Falls too many times to mention & I've always had my breath taken away by its magnificence. Look to spend under 1 hour here as merely a stopover. Parking is a real pain here - you might have to drive around in circles to find a spot. *Hot Tip Alert - check the weather report frequently to arrive here when the sun is popping up on the top of the falls. I highly recommend that you don't get here too early in the morning. The sun's casting rays of light, make for a gorgeous looking waterfall that will have you ooohhhing & aaahhhing. Oh I almost forgot to mention - the parking lot is just right off the highway & after you park your car, it's a gentle 7min walk to get to the falls viewing area - easy.
This is a quick and scenic hike that swoops by Shannon Falls, the third highest waterfall in British Columbia! The loop trail is only 0.7 miles long with slight inclines. Along the path, we walked next to gushing rivers and clear creeks. Lush greenery provided shade. As we neared the waterfall, a spectacular, cooling mist floated above us. Thanks to recent rain, we got to experience a cascading, thunderous fall up close! (Not close enough to splish splash inside though.) The entire route has amazing backgrounds for photos. Other things to do at Shannon Falls: - Restroom break! - Picnic in the field - Splash in the creek - Visit the information center and concession stand for snacks and souvenirs Shannon Falls gave us the best tumbling waterfall along our Sea to Sky Highway road trip. (Part 4)
Shannon Falls Park wasn't so great. I actually had high expectations for this waterfall but it was a little deflating, tbh. According to https://www.exploresquamish.com/news/the-best-squamish-waterfalls... "Shannon Falls, at 335 meters, is the 3rd highest waterfall in British Columbia. It cascades down from the massive cliffs above Highway 99 (Sea to Sky Highway) and transforms from a trickle to a raging, sprayful, spectacle on a rainy day". That sounds exciting, lol. Upon arriving about noontime...the parking lot was filled up. First off, the parking lot was tiny. Maybe there was spacing for 20 - 25 cars, max. And...cars were just circling around the lot in hopes of people returning and eventually leaving. It was a waste of time to even think at 12pm, I could find a space. But...I discovered a simple solution! Across the street was another parking lot with plenty of spaces available and that's definitely the way to go. Then it was just a 10 minute walk to the trailhead that leads towards Shannon Falls. My advice...unless you arrive here first thing in the morning, just park across the street and btw...it's free for parking (in both lots) and free to access Shannon Falls. To arrive at Shannon Falls lookout, it's (at the most) 1/4 mile walk to a viewing area. My biggest issue was that Shannon Falls was perched high above the cliffside wall in the background. So...you're kind gazing up at it from a distance. It doesn't really smack you in the face, like...hit you with that personal, intimate experience of yourself and the waterfall in one glorious snapshot. I never connected with it. I will say...reflecting back on my pictures...it was scenic, but the general setting was disappointing. Let me explain why...and I believe this aspect contributed to my disconnect... There were too many people. I mean, what else can I say other than this place was too touristy. Also, it was difficult to get that element of time in nature. Too many visitors taking too many family photos of themselves and Shannon Falls. And, for 12pm, the viewing area was covered in shadows and never lent itself to optimal photography opportunities. I will say, there's a pathway off to the left hand side of the viewing area which guides you to another vista point perspective of Shannon Falls. I walked it (btw, there's no name for it) and it was far less crowded, the better of the two observation spots. Although I never hung around to do hiking here, the park appeared to allow for enjoying the great outdoors. But for me, it was "witnessing Shannon Falls or bust", so to speak. So...maybe I needed 45 minutes and then it was onto the next attraction in Squamish. A couple extra notes... - At the front entrance to the park, there's a small gift shop if you'd like to purchase a souvenir. - For those interested, from here at Shannon Falls, you can simply hike 1 kilometer over to the big highlight of Squamish, and that being the Sea to Sky Gondola. Ultimately, you don't really have to return to your car and lose that coveted parking spot only to drive a short ways to get out at another very crowded lot at the gondola/skytram. Most people out there recommend Shannon Falls. I think it depends upon your point of view. What is going to make you happy? My memory wasn't so special, so fulfilling. But for others...they may have good feelings about it. In the end, everyone has their own stories and their own interpretations.
After a visit to the Sea to Sky Gondola, we noticed signs for Shannon Falls Provincial Park. We made a quick stop to take a look at Shannon Falls. There is a good amount parking, and it's free! They also have restrooms near the start of the trail. The hike itself is very short. It only takes about 15 minutes to get from the parking lot to the viewing point of the falls. The falls themselves are huge and a sight to see. Definitely worth a stop if you're in the area.
Stopped by this viewpoint on the way to the Sea to Sky Gondola (less than a mile away). The waterfall itself is actually visible from the Gondola parking lot, but you can walk right up to the base in under 10 minutes. If you're feeling adventurous you can climb up through the middle of the stream for a better look. Need to know: Park across the street so you don't get caught in a long line of cars.
Very cool place, summer/winter all seasons are great to look at the waterfall. Will come back
Can't go into British Columbia without visiting the great outdoors! Unfortunately, a lot of the places we wanted to visit were closed off due to inclement weather, flooding, snow or landslides. Ended up visiting Shannon Falls again after a less than thrilling first visit where the waterfall was only a trickle. Second time around is the charm as the waterfall was roaring at full force from all the recent rain. Truly majestic to see!
Beautiful park and falls. We were on a tight schedule, so I only wish we had more time to spend exploring. The BC provincial parks we've visited have all been great!
Absolutely one of the more beautiful falls you will see. When you first park you think you hear traffic- nope that is the sounds of a HUGE waterfall and stream right up the tag and around the bend. You will see first the stream and bottom and think "this is incredible" and take photos. Then you will continue up the trail- yo sn ever ZMIRE beautiful viewing point and take more incredible photos. But wait... there is more. If you continue up the path- all the way- it WILL be worth it. It's not a long or extremely hard hike. Towards the top a little more difficult- but totally on the lower scale of difficult. DO IT. It is incredible. Best part- TOTALLY FREE!!!
3 months ago
It has been years, decades even, since I last came here. Many times I wanted to drop by but couldn't find parking so I left. This time, the parking God smiled on us and we managed to get a spot when a car left. My sister was here for a visit and we took her here. There is now a gift shop with info board near the entrance, compared to 20 years ago. There are a few picnic tables and benches for those who are not going up to the falls. There are two paths to the falls, one is for those with strollers and wheelchairs. The falls is still as beautiful as I remembered. I stayed by the stream and it was quite mesmerizing to see the flow of water gushing over the rocks in the stream. The water was so clear. This is definitely a great place to bring visitors. read more
Definitely a breathtaking view! We drove here and then parked in their parking lot and took a short hike to see the base of the waterfall. I believe you could hike further, but I don't know if it gave better views of it later on. We had handicapped people with us, so we only stopped at the bottom of the falls to take some photos. I liked that they had a handicapped path and a normal path that was prettier. There were restrooms and portable restrooms available for visitors to use at the beginning of the park. read more
2 years ago
Shannon Falls was beautiful and the creek had the clearest water. Made me want to have a drink. Meandering through a moss covered forest to get to Shannon Falls was just magical for me. I loved every inch of that forest and the lush green moss covering tree trunks and branches. The ferns were so alive and pretty. I could forest bath here all day if I had the time. The sight and sounds of water rushing was so peaceful and tranquil. Could not get enough of this enchanting forest! read more
This waterfall is about a halfway point from Vancouver to Whistler, and is near the Sea to Sky Gondola. We visited on a Thursday at around 4:30. There were a good amount of people there at that time, but it wasn't packed - we were able to get a parking spot (which is free). The hike to the falls is easy and quick - maybe 10 minutes? All in all, we spent maybe half hour getting there/back, and taking photos. If you live in the area, it seems like a nice park for a picnic since there is a huge open space, and some picnic tables. Nice, quick, scenic stop - the best kind! read more
Shannon Falls is a definite stopover when heading to Squamish or Whistler! Speaking of Squamish & Whistler, please see my reviews on both locations under - District of Squamish & Whistler Resort Municipality. Shannon Falls is British Columbia's 3rd largest waterfall - 335 metres or over 1000 feet high. I've stopped by Shannon Falls too many times to mention & I've always had my breath taken away by its magnificence. Look to spend under 1 hour here as merely a stopover. Parking is a real pain here - you might have to drive around in circles to find a spot. *Hot Tip Alert - check the weather report frequently to arrive here when the sun is popping up on the top of the falls. I highly recommend that you don't get here too early in the morning. The sun's casting rays of light, make for a gorgeous looking waterfall that will have you ooohhhing & aaahhhing. Oh I almost forgot to mention - the parking lot is just right off the highway & after you park your car, it's a gentle 7min walk to get to the falls viewing area - easy. read more
3 years ago
This is a quick and scenic hike that swoops by Shannon Falls, the third highest waterfall in British Columbia! The loop trail is only 0.7 miles long with slight inclines. Along the path, we walked next to gushing rivers and clear creeks. Lush greenery provided shade. As we neared the waterfall, a spectacular, cooling mist floated above us. Thanks to recent rain, we got to experience a cascading, thunderous fall up close! (Not close enough to splish splash inside though.) The entire route has amazing backgrounds for photos. Other things to do at Shannon Falls: - Restroom break! - Picnic in the field - Splash in the creek - Visit the information center and concession stand for snacks and souvenirs Shannon Falls gave us the best tumbling waterfall along our Sea to Sky Highway road trip. (Part 4) read more
Shannon Falls Park wasn't so great. I actually had high expectations for this waterfall but it was a little deflating, tbh. According to https://www.exploresquamish.com/news/the-best-squamish-waterfalls... "Shannon Falls, at 335 meters, is the 3rd highest waterfall in British Columbia. It cascades down from the massive cliffs above Highway 99 (Sea to Sky Highway) and transforms from a trickle to a raging, sprayful, spectacle on a rainy day". That sounds exciting, lol. Upon arriving about noontime...the parking lot was filled up. First off, the parking lot was tiny. Maybe there was spacing for 20 - 25 cars, max. And...cars were just circling around the lot in hopes of people returning and eventually leaving. It was a waste of time to even think at 12pm, I could find a space. But...I discovered a simple solution! Across the street was another parking lot with plenty of spaces available and that's definitely the way to go. Then it was just a 10 minute walk to the trailhead that leads towards Shannon Falls. My advice...unless you arrive here first thing in the morning, just park across the street and btw...it's free for parking (in both lots) and free to access Shannon Falls. To arrive at Shannon Falls lookout, it's (at the most) 1/4 mile walk to a viewing area. My biggest issue was that Shannon Falls was perched high above the cliffside wall in the background. So...you're kind gazing up at it from a distance. It doesn't really smack you in the face, like...hit you with that personal, intimate experience of yourself and the waterfall in one glorious snapshot. I never connected with it. I will say...reflecting back on my pictures...it was scenic, but the general setting was disappointing. Let me explain why...and I believe this aspect contributed to my disconnect... There were too many people. I mean, what else can I say other than this place was too touristy. Also, it was difficult to get that element of time in nature. Too many visitors taking too many family photos of themselves and Shannon Falls. And, for 12pm, the viewing area was covered in shadows and never lent itself to optimal photography opportunities. I will say, there's a pathway off to the left hand side of the viewing area which guides you to another vista point perspective of Shannon Falls. I walked it (btw, there's no name for it) and it was far less crowded, the better of the two observation spots. Although I never hung around to do hiking here, the park appeared to allow for enjoying the great outdoors. But for me, it was "witnessing Shannon Falls or bust", so to speak. So...maybe I needed 45 minutes and then it was onto the next attraction in Squamish. A couple extra notes... - At the front entrance to the park, there's a small gift shop if you'd like to purchase a souvenir. - For those interested, from here at Shannon Falls, you can simply hike 1 kilometer over to the big highlight of Squamish, and that being the Sea to Sky Gondola. Ultimately, you don't really have to return to your car and lose that coveted parking spot only to drive a short ways to get out at another very crowded lot at the gondola/skytram. Most people out there recommend Shannon Falls. I think it depends upon your point of view. What is going to make you happy? My memory wasn't so special, so fulfilling. But for others...they may have good feelings about it. In the end, everyone has their own stories and their own interpretations. read more
After a visit to the Sea to Sky Gondola, we noticed signs for Shannon Falls Provincial Park. We made a quick stop to take a look at Shannon Falls. There is a good amount parking, and it's free! They also have restrooms near the start of the trail. The hike itself is very short. It only takes about 15 minutes to get from the parking lot to the viewing point of the falls. The falls themselves are huge and a sight to see. Definitely worth a stop if you're in the area. read more
Stopped by this viewpoint on the way to the Sea to Sky Gondola (less than a mile away). The waterfall itself is actually visible from the Gondola parking lot, but you can walk right up to the base in under 10 minutes. If you're feeling adventurous you can climb up through the middle of the stream for a better look. Need to know: Park across the street so you don't get caught in a long line of cars. read more
3 years ago
Very cool place, summer/winter all seasons are great to look at the waterfall. Will come back read more
Can't go into British Columbia without visiting the great outdoors! Unfortunately, a lot of the places we wanted to visit were closed off due to inclement weather, flooding, snow or landslides. Ended up visiting Shannon Falls again after a less than thrilling first visit where the waterfall was only a trickle. Second time around is the charm as the waterfall was roaring at full force from all the recent rain. Truly majestic to see! read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
Beautiful park and falls. We were on a tight schedule, so I only wish we had more time to spend exploring. The BC provincial parks we've visited have all been great! read more
3 years ago
Absolutely one of the more beautiful falls you will see. When you first park you think you hear traffic- nope that is the sounds of a HUGE waterfall and stream right up the tag and around the bend. You will see first the stream and bottom and think "this is incredible" and take photos. Then you will continue up the trail- yo sn ever ZMIRE beautiful viewing point and take more incredible photos. But wait... there is more. If you continue up the path- all the way- it WILL be worth it. It's not a long or extremely hard hike. Towards the top a little more difficult- but totally on the lower scale of difficult. DO IT. It is incredible. Best part- TOTALLY FREE!!! read more
4 years ago
3 years ago
8 years ago
Peaceful and majestic Shannon Falls Provincial Park provides locals and tourists a wonderful day-excursion just 58 km (36 miles) from Vancouver. BC. It's also a very convenient add-on to a visit to the Sea-to-Sky Gondola just a short walk away. After finding a spot in the free (and way too busy) parking lot, head past the tiny visitor shack to the tree-lined .35-km (.2-mile) trail surrounded by firs, hemlock, and cedar trees. The path leads to a popular viewpoint and photo spot of Shannon Falls. Pets are allowed, but must be on a leash. The waterfall is a tumbling cascade of water from Mount Sky Pilot and Mount Habrich over a series of cliffs starting at a height of 335 meters (1,099 feet). It ranks as the third highest waterfall in BC. Local brickmaker William Shannon was the first settler of the property in 1889 and source of the name. From 1976 - 1982, the waterfall served as a pure mountain water source for the Carling O'Keefe Brewery before being donated as the 210-acre park we can visit today. read more
Good Parking | Good Facilities | Beautiful Area free Easy to get on/off the main highway. Good parking area. Bathrooms are close to the parking lot and they're clean. Pretty nicely paved/gravel easy trail to go up and see the falls at two areas. My favorite was probably the first area of the little river. This is where you get the first glimpse of the falls, but the second area is where you really see the falls. Small shop at the entrance. ((See my review for Sea to Sky Gondola for the Sea to Sky Trail. You hike right next to the falls at one point.)) read more
10 years ago
Really awesome pit stop on the way to Vancouver from Whistler (or maybe even on the way) - not only is the park very clean, the bathrooms are also very clean for public park! Seriously, we're talking about automatic flushing toilets and water. Bathrooms aside, the walk to the falls is easy for all ages and is an enjoyable trail. It's paved, and there's even a river/creek area along the way to stop by and explore for a bit for pictures. When you walk along the trail, you get a pretty good view of the waterfall from the first platform. HOWEVER... if you follow the trail going up into the trees, at the end of it you'll get an even better view of the falls! It's closer and slightly elevated, but again the trail is really short and easy. I was able to do it in my flip flops no problem! We came here on a weekday, I imagine it'd be busier on the weekends when there's more traffic on the roads. There's a parking lot next to the park and there are also picnic tables - perfect for a picnic lunch on the way home or to Whistler. Again, definitely recommend as a pit stop for its easy accessibility to natural beauty. read more
Absolutely gorgeous! All my senses were left captivated by the awesomeness of this natural wonder. The area offers several trails to hike. I chose the easier of them, but as you get closer to the falls you can the danger that can be associated with this beauty. This is definitely a must-see along the Sea to Sky Highway. read more
So on my Pacific NW trip I saw a lot of waterfalls. I mean, a lot. More than I ever wanted to see. Shannon Falls was a stop on our way to Whistler. I actually found a brand new Samsung cellphone on the walk up to the falls! But since I am such a good person, I turned it into the front desk. The falls, it's pretty and big. That's the jist of it. read more
Truly just a breathtaking waterfall and unbelievable scenery. The hike is quite lovely and the trail is well maintained, and the park nearby has lots of room to accommodate family picnics. Plenty of space to have kids run around and for dogs to play fetch. Bathroom located near the main parking lot, with some stands that sell drinks/ice cream/souvenirs etc. Only thing is parking can be quite a pain if it's busy - the overflow lot is located pretty far away (you need to completely turn around and go back down the hill, then across the highway and potentially down another hill). If you're unlucky with the parking, could be a 10-15 minute walk in itself to get to the main parking lot. Aside from that, the drive up there is beautiful with plenty of pit stops to get some great photos. Highly recommend you check this place out if you're in the area! read more
Perfect place for an outdoor person and especially for Nature lovers. Starting from vancouver it comes before Squamish and in between the gondola ride. On a busy weekend , parking would be hard to find as there is limited parking but the day we went it was drizzling . We got parking easily. The park was still busy with people having bar-b-q picnics in the park. Its a short distance from the base in park to falls.Too beautiful and spectacular falls which merge fresh and clear water river. There are washrooms to use before you start the hike towards falls. Up till falls there is a broad pathway where even baby carts can go but beyond that it gets narrow. Fresh air strike your face and gives you an amazing feeling of liberation. I loved being here and i would go back again. Maybe on a bright sunny day. Its advisable to take your water and food if you plan to stay longer as there is no food shop around. read more
5 years ago
Shannon Falls and Brandywine Falls are two must stops if you're traveling north on Rte 99 to Whistler. Some great waterfall views and nice, easy trails leading to them. If you're at Brandywine Falls, walk a little further past the falls to a viewing platform overlooking what I believe is Daisy Lake and Mt Cayley ... spectacular! read more
This is definitely worth the stop and see if you are on your way north or south on the Sea to Sky hwy. the hike is short, 0.8miles or 1.3km. There are people who get off the path and get closer to the falls, but they are asking people not to since it is impacting the vegetation. What did I learn today? Even in the winter it is a good visit. read more
The Chief is a great hike no more than 1.5 hours north of Vancouver, when accounting for traffic. Way less crowded that Grouse Grind, and you get a way better view on the way up. You don't get a view of Vancouver of the top, but you get the gorgeous Squamish Valley below you. Even though the Chief is further than Grouse Grind, it's worth the view, the more serene hike, and the overall experience. At 11:30am on a Saturday, the main lot was already filled up. You'll see cars backed up from the traffic light on the right - don't even bother going in, especially if you see people walking from the left side of the street! Even if you're lucky enough to get a spot, it's not worth all the time you'll spend waiting for the line of cars to go through. Turn to the left, where there is PLENTY of overflow parking. 3.5 hours is plenty of time to hike to 2nd peak and back. This included a ~30 minute lunch spot and maybe ~20 minutes hanging out at the peak. The view is comparable to 1st peak but is a little bit higher. 3rd peak is behind 2nd peak and it looks like a lot of the view of the valley below and the water is actually blocked by 2nd peak. About 30-45 minutes in, before the turnoff to 1st peak is a spot with open granite and great inland views. We had lunch here, as did a lot of of others (there is plenty of space for everyone to spread out). There are a couple spots near 2nd peak where the path is very narrow and you rely on a bolted chain to get up or down. Even though it wasn't too crowded that day, those spots tend to get very congested. Just make sure to be aware of hikers coming the opposite direction as you, and communicate with your group so you don't crowd an area when there isn't room for all of you! read more
Located near Squamish on Highway 99 (Sea to Sky highway), these falls are not to be missed. Actually...it's hard not to see them as they're right off the highway. The path to the falls is an easy walk from the parking lot and follows as small stream (the water from the falls). During our trip, BC was experiencing a drought, so I can only wonder how stunning these falls would be had it been wetter....however...they were still stunning and worth the stop. Make sure to go up the stairs to get a closer view of the falls....they're off the the left of the main viewing area. Many people didn't go up (perhaps they thought it was a hiking trail as there's no signage?..but it affords a closer view of the falls with a very different perspective. Word of caution....the stairs are not for those who have mobility issues...they're steep and there's plenty of them...but the reward is worth it if you're game. Amazing. read more
4 years ago
12 years ago
Makes for a nice pitstop on the way up to Whistler, British Columbia. The parking area is located near Squamish, BC., and it is free! My wife and I wanted to hike the trail that led higher to the falls. Instead, we settled for walking to the viewpoint close to the bottom of Shannon Falls. Our two companions were much obliged. For the most part, we were here at a good time because there were no crowds! We were able to take our time and take plenty of pictures. The only bad thing was that we were against the sunlight. This pit stop is worth it. A short easy walk leads you to this lovely waterfall. Enjoy. read more
Beautiful BC it is.. Shannon falls is right off the Sea to sky hwy on the way to Whistler located in Squamish, It's a easy 5 minute hike / walk from the free parking lot. We alway stop here. I've hiked all the way to the top of the falls and still just seeing it from the bottom is the best view. It gets pretty busy in the summer with tour busses, but all you'll need is a little time to see this beautiful water falls. read more
I think this is the closest park to Vancouver on the Sea to Sky Highway. At least the one that feels far away enough to be completely out of Vancouver. Because of its easily accessible location, and the fact the park is adjacent to the parking lot, it is filled with LOTS of people in the summer. Even mid-May, on a sunny Saturday, the lot was full at 1pm. Right next to the parking lot are some picnic tables. A very short hike takes you along the river (creek?) below the falls, and the falls itself are very high up above ground level. Very majestic in the spring, when the snow is melting, increasing the flow. I've never been inside, but there is a small store which is open during the summer months. Portable washrooms are available in the winter; an actual building washroom in the summer. The park is open year-round. Try coming in February when the creek below the river has a thin layer of ice on it! read more
Page 1 of 3
More info about Shannon Falls Provincial Park
Shannon Falls Provincial Park
Squamish, BC V0N 1J0
Canada
Directions
Visit Website
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca
Hours
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Shannon Falls Provincial Park Reviews in Other Languages
Review Highlights - Shannon Falls Provincial Park
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
2 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
7 years ago
9 years ago
