Cerberus Falls
British Columbia • 475 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Hard
About Cerberus Falls
Cerberus Falls is a segmented horsetail waterfall located at the head of Icefall Canyon in the Continental Ranges of British Columbia, Canada. With a total height of 475 m (1,558 ft), the falls are tied with Kiwi Falls on Vancouver Island as the 8th tallest confirmed waterfall in Canada. It is also the tallest waterfall in Canada by tallest single drop and the 26th tallest waterfall in the world by tallest single drop.
The Setting
Cerberus Falls sits at 1,776 metres in the high mountains of British Columbia. At 475 metres, it is among the taller waterfalls in British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Cerberus Falls flows over hard intrusive rock laid down about 359-419 million years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating a 1558-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail access to Cerberus Falls may be minimal or non-existent in sections. Expect unmaintained routes, steep scrambles, possible talus slopes and creek crossings. Route-finding skills and map/compass or GPS are recommended. In many reports for similar remote waterfalls in this region, hikers must leave any faint boot path and bushwhack to get viewpoints. The descent to the base (if safe) may be steep and slippery.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 475 metres over hard intrusive rock.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cerberus Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cerberus Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring to early summer (snowmelt) for fullest waterfall flow. Summer offers easier access on drier ground; fall offers color and lower crowds. Winter conditions may make access dangerous due to deep snow, ice and avalanche risk, only attempt with appropriate winter skills and equipment.
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
Cerberus Falls should be treated as a backcountry destination. Hazards include slippery rock, steep drops, loose talus, potential rockfall, fast or cold water, variable weather, limited or no cell service, and wildlife (including bears). Use caution near edges and riverbanks; avoid climbing on wet rock. Check avalanche forecasts and winter conditions before attempting access in snow season. When uncertain about route or conditions, consult local park staff or experienced local guides.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 26.2 km away
19.2 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 75 years of record
1.58 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher 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 Lake Louise 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 lie near the coordinates 51.8934, -117.0704 (in the general Lake Louise / Kootenay/Banff region). Access is not likely from a formal, heavily developed trailhead, visitors should expect to travel on secondary or forestry roads and do significant off-trail travel. Consult recent trip reports, local ranger stations (Parks Canada or provincial offices), and up-to-date maps before attempting access. Cell coverage may be unreliable in the area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is likely informal (roadside or small pullouts). There may be no marked or managed parking lot; park responsibly and avoid blocking gates or private property. Confirm parking rules with local authorities.
Elevation
1,776 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.893389° N, -117.070364° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Treat this as backcountry travel: tell someone your plan, carry navigation and emergency gear. 2) Wear sturdy, waterproof boots and gaiters; expect wet and muddy ground. 3) Bring bear spray and know how to use it; this is bear country. 4) Do not attempt close-up views on wet or icy rock; slippery ledges and undercut banks are hazardous. 5) Check recent trip reports or contact local park/forest offices for up-to-date access info and road conditions.
This trail sits at 5,827 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 23% 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.
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
Lambe Creek
27 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearest well-known destinations in the broader region include Lake Louise (the user-provided context cites ~60.0 miles), various viewpoints and trails in Banff and Kootenay areas. Exact nearby attractions depend on the final route and park boundaries; consult local maps.
Wildlife
Typical mountain wildlife, black bear and possibly grizzly bear, elk, deer, smaller mammals and birds. Be mindful of seasonal wildlife activity and follow best practices for food storage and bear encounters.
Cities near Cerberus Falls
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