Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.1 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
45 m
About Bighorn Falls
Bighorn Falls is a relatively small cascading waterfall in west-central Alberta, located near the David Thompson/David Thompson Highway corridor. It lies roughly 29 miles (≈47 km) from Banff and about 42 miles (≈68 km) from Lake Louise (coordinates 51.7405, -115.5418). Local sources indicate the falls are most impressive during spring snowmelt; access appears to be informal and may require a short unmarked walk or roadside stop. Specific published measurements and an official developed viewpoint are not widely documented, so some access details and features may vary by season and recent trail conditions.
The Setting
Bighorn Falls sits at 1,612 metres within Ya Ha Tinda, in the high mountains of Alberta.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Bighorn Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 145-252 million years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating the step that forms the waterfall.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.1-km out-and-back trail gains 45 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Published trail descriptions for a formal maintained route to Bighorn Falls are sparse. Visitor reports suggest either a short walk from a roadside pullout or a brief unmarked scramble to reach viewpoints near the cascade. Expect uneven terrain, loose rock, and limited or no trail signage. If a short spur trail exists, it may be under 1 mile round-trip, but this is not confirmed, use caution and allow extra time for route-finding.
What to Expect
A modest, scenic cascade set in a montane/foothills setting. Water flow is highest in spring and early summer from snowmelt and may be greatly reduced in late summer or during dry periods. Surrounding terrain typically includes mixed conifer and aspen stands, exposed rock, and possibly steep banks. Cell coverage may be intermittent. In winter, the falls can be icy or partially frozen but reachability and safety are more challenging.
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 Bighorn Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bighorn Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring to early summer for highest flow and full waterfalls; summer for easier road access and warmer weather; fall for lower crowds and autumn colors. Winter visits are possible but expect snow/ice, limited access, and increased risk, only attempt if properly equipped and experienced.
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 may include slippery wet rocks, unstable banks, steep drops near the cascade, sudden changes in water flow (especially during spring melt), cold water temperatures, falling rock, limited cell service, and wildlife encounters. Use caution near edges, do not climb on wet or icy rocks, and check conditions before visiting. If traveling in bear country, carry and know how to use bear spray and follow provincial wildlife guidance.
Current Water Conditions
36.3 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 57 years of record
1.13 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 Banff hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The falls are located near Highway 11 / David Thompson Highway corridor. From Banff or Lake Louise, drive north/northwest toward the David Thompson area, then look for local pullouts or side roads in the vicinity of coordinates 51.7405, -115.5418. There is limited official signage in many backcountry locations along this corridor, so use a GPS or map and check recent trip reports before you go.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is likely informal: roadside pullouts or small gravel turnouts. There may be no staffed lot, toilet facilities, or marked trailhead. Parking availability can be limited during peak travel times. Do not block the shoulder or local driveways.
Elevation
1,612 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.740520° N, -115.541785° W
Land Management
Managed by Parks Canada Agency
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Wear sturdy waterproof footwear with good traction, rocks near waterfalls are slippery. • Expect little to no facilities (no toilets, no potable water). • Bring a map/GPS and download offline maps; trailheads and pullouts may be unmarked. • Check recent trip reports or local ranger/park information for seasonal access and hazards. • Give wildlife plenty of space and carry bear spray where appropriate; know how to use it. • Avoid getting too close to the edge; riverbanks can undercut and be unstable. • Respect private property and posted signs, some nearby roads and lands may be managed or closed at times.
This trail sits at 5,289 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 21% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
For this easy 1.1 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
Bighorn Campground
1 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Banff National Park (to the south), Lake Louise (to the southwest), David Thompson Country and scenic highway drives along Highway 11. There are other natural attractions and viewpoints scattered along the David Thompson corridor.
Wildlife
Typical foothills and montane wildlife may be present: deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, black bears, grizzly bears, coyotes, and various birds. Always maintain distance and follow wildlife safety practices.
Cities near Bighorn Falls
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