Alexandra Falls
Northwest Territories • 32 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.3 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
15 m
About Alexandra Falls
The Alexandra Falls is a 32 m (105 ft) waterfall located on the Hay River in the Northwest Territories. The falls, the third highest in the NWT, form part of the Twin Falls Gorge Territorial Park and has its own day use area with a 3 km (1.9 mi) trail to the main campsite at Louise Falls, the second of the Twin Falls. Situated on the Mackenzie Highway the falls are about 10 km (6.2 mi) southwest of Enterprise and 43 km (27 mi) southwest of Hay River.
The Setting
Alexandra Falls sits at 257 metres in the foothills of Northwest Territories. At 32 metres, it is among the taller waterfalls in Northwest Territories.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Alexandra Falls flows over Alexandra Member, a layered carbonate rock layer deposited about 372-383 million years ago. These soft rocks erode readily, allowing the stream to carve a 105-foot drop into the landscape.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Alexandra Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
From the parking area a short, well-defined trail and viewpoint/boardwalk lead to a fenced overlook above Alexandra Falls. Expect stairs and packed gravel or boardwalk sections; surfaces can be uneven and slippery when wet or icy. There are interpretive signs and multiple vantage points; a longer rim-trail links to the nearby Louise Falls for a longer loop or out-and-back hike.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 32 metres over layered carbonate rock.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Alexandra Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Alexandra Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt) for highest flows and dramatic water volume; summer for easier access and milder weather; fall for fall color. Winter offers striking frozen scenery but expect icy conditions and limited services, use caution and traction devices.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Primary hazards: steep cliffs and drop-offs, slippery rocks and stairs (especially when wet or icy), cold fast-moving water, variable cell coverage, and seasonal road/trail closures. Stay on marked trails and behind railings, supervise children closely, do not approach the edge, and avoid entering the water. Carry appropriate clothing and emergency supplies and check local conditions before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 35.4 km away
345.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 61 years of record
4.07 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
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Hay River hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Alexandra Falls is located in Twin Falls Gorge Territorial Park, accessed from the Hay River / Fort Smith corridor (Highway 2 region). From Hay River it's roughly a 40–45 mile drive (the user-provided distance is ~41.6 miles). Follow the territorial park signage to the parking area/turnoff. Roads are paved to the park entrance but local conditions may vary seasonally, check territorial park or local government notices before travel.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area/day-use lot for the falls with short walks to viewpoints. Facilities are limited (day-use style); services may be seasonal. Park responsibly and pack out what you bring.
Elevation
257 metres above sea level
Coordinates
60.500427° N, -116.279645° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Stay behind safety railings and marked trails; cliffs are steep and edges can be unstable. Footwear with good traction is recommended. Check road and weather conditions before travel, especially in shoulder seasons and winter. If you plan to explore beyond the main viewpoint, tell someone your plans and be prepared for rough, unmarked terrain. Pack out trash and follow Leave No Trace principles.
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For this easy 0.3 km trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
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
Louise Falls
1.9 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Louise Falls (within the same Twin Falls Gorge area), Hay River town services, local viewpoints along the Hay River corridor. The area is commonly visited as part of a day trip from Hay River.
Wildlife
Typical boreal species may be encountered: moose, black bear, beaver, and a variety of birds (including raptors). Maintain distance from wildlife and store food securely.
Cities near Alexandra Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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