Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
46 m
About Begbie Falls
Begbie Falls is a small, scenic cascade located a few miles from Revelstoke, British Columbia. The falls drop through a narrow, mossy canyon and are a popular short outing for visitors based in Revelstoke. Water flow can be much higher in spring and early summer from snowmelt and lower in late summer and fall. Exact measurements vary by source; the falls are best described as a modest roadside-to-short-trail waterfall rather than a large vertical drop.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Begbie Falls flows over Monashee Complex, a extremely hard metamorphic rock layer deposited about 419 million to 2.5 billion 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 10.3 kilometres to the southeast. Also nearby: Sutherland Falls (14 m, 13.0 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.0-km out-and-back trail gains 46 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
A short out-and-back route from a roadside turnout leads down to a viewpoint above/along the canyon where Begbie Falls cascades. The path is typically well-used but can be narrow, uneven, and muddy in places; there may be short rock steps or roots. Viewing areas are relatively close to the parking area and the trail does not require extensive hiking experience. Expect a brief descent and return ascent on the way back.
What to Expect
A compact, scenic waterfall that is most impressive during spring snowmelt. Forested canyon walls covered in moss and ferns are common sights. Limited formal infrastructure, a simple trail and one or two informal viewpoints rather than developed viewing platforms. Water flow is seasonal; pools and streams near the falls are cold and fast-moving. Cell service may be intermittent.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Begbie Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Begbie Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring to early summer for highest flows and dramatic scenery. Summer and early fall offer easier access and drier trails. Winter can produce icy and frozen falls, beautiful but more hazardous and may require traction devices and winter hiking experience.
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 include slippery and uneven trail surfaces, steep canyon edges with limited barriers, cold and fast-moving water, falling rocks in narrow canyon sections, and variable winter conditions (ice, deep snow). Parking is roadside, watch for traffic. Cell phone reception may be limited; carry a map and tell someone your plans. In winter use appropriate traction devices and check avalanche forecasts if venturing beyond the immediate trail.
Current Water Conditions
147.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 62 years of record
2.14 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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
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
Begbie Falls is located a short drive from downtown Revelstoke (approximately 3–4 miles). There is a small highway turnout/parking area near the trailhead. Follow local signs or maps for the Begbie Falls turnout; the trailhead is accessed from the parking pullout. Road and trail conditions may change seasonally, check local resources in Revelstoke before you go.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Small roadside pullout/parking area that fits a handful of vehicles. Parking can fill quickly on busy days; park fully off the roadway and avoid blocking the turnout. In winter the turnout may be snowplowed differently or reduced in size.
Elevation
499 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.933248° N, -118.189085° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction; the trail can be slippery and muddy. Stay back from canyon edges, lookout areas may not have guardrails. If visiting in spring expect spray and wetter conditions; bring a waterproof layer. Parking is limited so consider visiting early in the day. Follow Leave No Trace principles and obey any posted signs. If uncertain about winter conditions, check with local authorities or visitor centres in Revelstoke.
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For this easy 1.0 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
Begbie Falls Rec Site
0.8 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Revelstoke townsite, Mount Revelstoke National Park (Meadows in the Sky Parkway and Giant Cedars Trail), Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Columbia River viewpoints, local hiking and mountain biking trails.
Wildlife
Typical interior-BC wildlife: deer, black bears, small mammals, and various birds. As with all backcountry areas, maintain distance from wildlife and store food securely.
Cities near Begbie Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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