Cavanagh Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
About Cavanagh Falls
Cavanagh Falls is a small-to-moderate cascade reported near Lillooet, British Columbia (approx. 18.1 miles / 29 km from Lillooet) at coordinates 50.9885, -121.8577. The waterfall appears to be on a local creek/tributary in the Fraser Canyon / Lillooet region. Visitor reports indicate the flow is seasonal, typically highest in spring during snowmelt and reduced in late summer and fall. Detailed official information is limited; access may involve unmarked or rough forest/utility roads and an informal trail or short scramble to view points.
The Setting
Cavanagh Falls sits at 951 metres within EDGE HILLS PARK, in the mountains of British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Cavanagh Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 145-359 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
Trail Description
There is no widely documented maintained trail to Cavanagh Falls. Visitor accounts for similar remote falls in the Lillooet area commonly describe short, informal footpaths and short scrambles over rocky or root-covered terrain to reach viewpoints. Expect uneven footing, possible bushwhack sections, and little to no trail infrastructure (no railings, stairs, or marked viewpoints). Use navigation (GPS coordinates) and be prepared to route-find.
What to Expect
A natural, relatively undeveloped waterfall setting. Flow is likely highest in spring (snowmelt) and lower in late summer. Views may be from the streambank or a short ledge; getting to the base may require scrambling. No facilities (toilets, potable water) are expected. Cell service may be intermittent. Weather can change quickly; water and rocks will be slippery, and edges may be unstable.
Accessibility
Likely not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Terrain appears to be natural and uneven with potential scrambling; accessibility information is not documented and should be assumed limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cavanagh Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cavanagh Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt) for peak flow and good photographic conditions. Early summer offers milder weather with lower flows. Late summer and fall may have reduced water; winter may create ice features but access can be hazardous or blocked by snow.
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
• Slippery rocks and fast-moving water present a drowning risk, do not underestimate water force or depth. • Edges and ledges may be unstable; keep a safe distance. • Spring runoff can dramatically increase flow and create dangerous currents. • Winter and early spring ice can be hazardous; hypothermia is a risk in cold water. • Cell service may be unreliable, bring navigation and inform someone of your itinerary. • Road conditions on forestry/logging roads can change; a high-clearance vehicle may be needed. Watch for active logging traffic and obey gates and signage. • Respect private property, do not trespass on posted land.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 29 km away
2,230.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 44 years of record
7.42 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge FRASER RIVER AT BIG BAR CREEK (29 km away).
Today
Low
2408 m³/s
4/10Tomorrow
Low
2297 m³/s
5/10Tue
Low
2165 m³/s
5/10Wed
Low
2122 m³/s
5/10Thu
Low
2107 m³/s
5/10Fri
Low
2064 m³/s
6/10Sat
Low
2021 m³/s
5/10Best window: Fri — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early May to early August, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest WSC stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Lillooet hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
From Lillooet drive toward the coordinates (50.9885, -121.8577). Access is likely via local secondary/forestry roads or roadside pullouts off the nearest main highway. Exact public trailhead and route are not well-documented; a high-clearance vehicle may be helpful if gravel/logging roads are required. Expect limited signage.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Likely limited roadside parking or informal pullouts. There does not appear to be a developed parking lot or facilities. Park well clear of traffic and do not block gates or private driveways.
Elevation
951 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.988495° N, -121.857737° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Confirm access before you go, local forestry or landowner restrictions may apply. • Wear sturdy, grippy footwear; traction on wet rock is important. • Carry a map or offline GPS and tell someone your plans; cell service may be unreliable. • Avoid approaching edges or climbing on wet cliffs; rockfall and unstable banks are possible. • Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles. • If access uses logging roads, be aware of active industrial traffic and gates; close gates behind you.
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
Pear Lake
3 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Town of Lillooet (services), Fraser River viewpoints, local provincial parks and backcountry routes in the Lillooet region. Specific nearby attractions should be confirmed with local tourism resources.
Wildlife
Typical interior BC wildlife may be present: black bears, cougars, deer, small mammals, and various bird species. Take normal precautions for wildlife encounters and secure food/scented items.
Cities near Cavanagh Falls
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