Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
6.1 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
323 m
About Akolkolex Falls
Akolkolex Falls is a relatively remote waterfall near Revelstoke, British Columbia (approx. 15.1 miles from Revelstoke; coordinates 50.8243, -118.0297). Public information about the falls is limited; it appears in local/regional trip reports and on informal maps rather than in developed park literature. The falls sit in a forested, mountainous setting and may be reached by a combination of paved roads, forest service/logging roads and a short unmaintained trail or scramble to a viewpoint. Facilities and signage are minimal to nonexistent, and many details (including precise vertical measurement and an official trail route) are not well documented.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Akolkolex Falls flows over hard banded metamorphic rock, primarily gneiss, laid down about 359-419 million years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating the falls where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Mulvehill Creek Fall (100 m) lies 6.9 kilometres to the west. Also nearby: Sutherland Falls (14 m, 4.3 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 6.1-km out-and-back trail gains 323 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is no widely published, maintained trail to Akolkolex Falls. Most visitor accounts describe travel via forest-service or logging roads followed by a short, unmarked footpath or scramble through forest and possibly brush to reach viewing points. Route-finding skills, a topographic map or reliable GPS with the provided coordinates, and comfort on rough terrain are recommended. Trail surfaces are likely natural (roots, rocks, muddy in wet seasons) and may be steep or slippery near the falls.
What to Expect
Wooded, mountainous terrain with limited infrastructure. Expect a natural viewpoint rather than a developed overlook, no guardrails, restrooms, or interpretive signs. Water flow will be highest in late spring/early summer from snowmelt and after heavy rain. In summer the road approach may be dry and dusty; in shoulder seasons, expect mud and possible standing water. Cell service may be intermittent or absent. Wildlife typical of interior British Columbia (bears, deer, etc.) may be present.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Akolkolex Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Akolkolex Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring to early summer for peak flows from snowmelt and for the most dramatic waterfall appearance. Summer offers easier road access and drier trails. Fall can provide attractive colors and lower visitor numbers. Winter access may be difficult or unsafe due to deep snow, icy conditions, and seasonal road closures.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards may include slippery rocks, steep drops, unstable edges, fast-moving water, changing water levels (particularly during spring snowmelt and after heavy rain), loose rock and debris, rough logging roads, limited cell service, and wildlife encounters. Use caution near the water and cliff edges; never turn your back on moving water. Check recent trip reports or local authorities for current road and trail conditions. If driving forest service roads, be prepared for narrow or single-lane sections and for gates or temporary closures.
Current Water Conditions
13.6 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 20 years of record
24.77 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Revelstoke hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Akolkolex Falls is located roughly 15 miles from the town of Revelstoke (use coordinates 50.8243, -118.0297 for GPS). Access commonly requires driving on secondary or forest-service/logging roads; some of these roads may be rough and require a high-clearance vehicle. Expect a final approach on an unmarked or faint footpath or short scramble. There is limited authoritative signage or an official trailhead, verify the route with local sources or up-to-date trip reports before you go.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No formal developed parking lot is known for this site. Parking is likely limited to pullouts or informal clearings along a forest road; park well off the road and avoid blocking gates. A high-clearance vehicle is often recommended. If unsure, plan to park at a safe pullout and hike in.
Elevation
546 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.824282° N, -118.029681° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Use the provided GPS coordinates and recent trip reports to plan your route; roads and bridges can change. 2) Prefer a high-clearance vehicle for forest roads; in wet or winter conditions 4x4 may be required. 3) Wear sturdy footwear, approach may include steep, loose, or slippery ground. 4) Bring navigation tools (map, compass/GPS) and tell someone your plan; cell service may be limited. 5) Respect private property and posted closures; do not trespass. 6) Avoid getting too close to the edge of cliffs or wet rocks near the falls.
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With 6.1 km and 323 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Blanket Creek Campground
3.7 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Revelstoke town amenities and services, Mount Revelstoke National Park (Meadows in the Sky Parkway), Revelstoke Mountain Resort (skiing and summer activities), Illecillewaet and Illecillewaet Glacier areas, other regional hikes and waterfalls in the Columbia Mountains. Confirm distances and routes before planning multiple stops.
Wildlife
Typical interior British Columbia wildlife may be present: black bears, grizzly bears (region-dependent), deer, elk, moose, small mammals and various birds. Practice bear-aware behavior: make noise on approach, store food securely, and carry bear spray where appropriate.
Cities near Akolkolex Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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