About Big Falls
Big Falls is a coastal/near-coastal waterfall on the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland and Labrador, located near Argentia (approx. 12.5 miles) and Trepassey (approx. 47.0 miles) at coordinates 47.0953, -54.0587. Exact published information about developed trail infrastructure and official site amenities is limited. The waterfall is likely reached via local secondary roads, rough access routes, or short unmaintained paths from nearby coastal roads. Visitors should expect a relatively remote, natural setting rather than a developed park site.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Big Falls flows over hard volcanic rock laid down about 539 million to 1.0 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.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is limited authoritative trail information for Big Falls at the given coordinates. If a trail exists it may be an unmaintained footpath or informal route from a roadside parking spot. Expect uneven terrain, roots, rocks, boggy patches, and possible short steep sections near the stream or cliff edges. Trail length and elevation gain are not well documented and may vary depending on the chosen approach.
What to Expect
A natural, undeveloped waterfall setting with rocky shorelines and coastal vegetation. Flow is typically higher in spring and after heavy rain; summer flows may be reduced. There may be limited or no visitor infrastructure (no handrails, boardwalks, or viewing platforms). Cell coverage can be spotty. Weather on the Avalon Peninsula can change quickly, wind, rain, and fog are common.
Accessibility
The site is likely not wheelchair accessible. Trails and access routes may be uneven, boggy, or steep and are probably unmaintained.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Big Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Big Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring and early summer often provide the best flows after snowmelt and spring rains. Fall offers good scenery and cooler temperatures. Winter visits are possible but trails and rocks may be icy and hazardous; only attempt with appropriate gear and 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
Hazards include slippery rocks, steep and unstable cliff edges, high flows after rain, cold water and risk of hypothermia, sudden weather changes, poor footing on boggy ground, limited or no cell coverage, and potential encounters with wildlife (including moose). Use caution, do not approach edges, supervise children closely, and avoid attempting to climb wet rock faces or descend unstable slopes. If unsure about conditions, seek local advice or avoid the visit.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 24.9 km away
1.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 41 years of record
2.23 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual 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 Argentia hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
From Argentia (approx. 12.5 miles) or Trepassey (approx. 47 miles) drive along local and secondary roads toward the coastal area around the provided coordinates (47.0953, -54.0587). Access may require following logging roads, private roads, or short off-road tracks; a high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle may be useful. There may be no formal signage, use a detailed map or GPS and confirm local road conditions before traveling.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is likely informal (roadside pullouts or small clearings). There may be no formal parking lot, signage, or maintained pullout. Park well off the roadway, avoid blocking gates or access roads, and respect private property.
Elevation
40 metres above sea level
Coordinates
47.095331° N, -54.058732° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Confirm local access and road conditions before traveling; some approaches may cross private or working lands. • Wear waterproof, sturdy footwear and dress in layers; trail and shoreline can be wet and slippery. • Use caution near edges and wet rocks; stay back from unstable cliff edges. • Bring a map/GPS and download offline maps; cell signal may be unreliable. • Leave no trace: pack out all trash and avoid disturbing vegetation or wildlife. • Check tide tables if accessing along coastal shoreline sections and be aware of changing weather.
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
Argentia Sunset Park
20.9 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Argentia (historic naval base/port area), the town of Trepassey, Placentia Bay coastal scenery, and other Avalon Peninsula natural attractions such as Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve and Mistaken Point (both are farther afield but regionally notable).
Wildlife
Expect seabirds, waterfowl, shorebirds, and coastal species. Moose are present on Newfoundland and may be seen near roads. Marine life including seals and whales may be observed offshore. As always, observe wildlife from a distance.
Cities near Big Falls
Other waterfalls named Big Falls
23 other waterfalls share this name across Canada.
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