Hanging Creek Falls
British Columbia • Pinecone Burke Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
8.9 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
795 m
About Hanging Creek Falls
Hanging Creek Falls is a small, forested cascade on Hanging Creek near the Canada–United States border in the Custer / Birch Bay area of British Columbia. There is limited official information available about this feature; it appears to be a relatively low-profile waterfall accessed from local roads and trails rather than a developed park site. Visitor reports are sparse, so details about the exact drop, pool conditions, and developed access are not well documented. Coordinates provided: 49.4062, -122.6442.
The Setting
Hanging Creek Falls sits at 219 metres within Pinecone Burke Park, in the foothills of British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Hanging Creek Falls flows over hard intrusive rock laid down about 145-162 million 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
The Approach
The moderate 8.9-km out-and-back trail gains 795 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is no widely published, maintained trail description for Hanging Creek Falls. Expect an informal approach that may include roadside walking, short off-trail scrambling, and creekside travel through forested terrain. Trails, if present, may be minimally maintained and could be muddy, steep in short sections, or involve wet/rocky creek crossings. Because official trail routing and length are not documented, plan for route-finding and variable underfoot conditions.
What to Expect
A small to moderate cascade in a wooded setting. Limited facilities (no toilets, picnic tables, or formal viewpoints) are expected. The waterfall's flow will be strongest in spring and after heavy rains; summer flows may be reduced. Vegetation, mosquitoes, and uneven ground are typical. Limited signage and few other visitors are likely, so navigation and safety self-reliance are important.
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 Hanging Creek Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hanging Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt and rainy season) or after periods of rain for the best water flow. Early morning or weekday visits will reduce the chance of encountering other visitors and provide calmer light for photos. Avoid icy conditions in winter unless properly equipped.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Pinecone Burke Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards may include slippery rocks and banks, sudden increases in flow after rain, unstable or muddy slopes, limited or no cell service, and possible private property boundaries. Use caution near the water, do not climb wet rocks, and avoid crossing the creek during high flow. If you encounter posted signs, gates, or fences, respect them and do not trespass. Bring a means of navigation and inform someone of your plans.
Current Water Conditions
0.3 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 16 years of record
3.25 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
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 Vancouver hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
General approach: use the coordinates 49.4062, -122.6442 as your navigation target. The falls lie near the Canada–US border north of communities listed below. Approximate driving distances from nearby communities (as provided): Custer ~24.4 miles, Blaine ~24.7 miles, Birch Bay ~28.1 miles. Access likely requires travel on secondary/local roads and possibly short forest or creekside paths; there is no widely advertised trailhead or transit access. Expect limited signage and potential private property boundaries, confirm land ownership before crossing fences.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No formal parking lot is known. Parking is likely limited to roadside pullouts or informal parking near the access point. Do not block gates, driveways, or private access. If unsure, park well off the traveled way and avoid obstructing local traffic.
Elevation
219 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.406150° N, -122.644237° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Confirm land status before heading out, parts of the area may be private or managed for forestry. 2) Use the exact coordinates in a reliable GPS device or mapping app. 3) Wear waterproof boots with good traction; expect mud and slippery rocks. 4) Bring insect repellent in warm months. 5) Tell someone your plan and expected return time; cell coverage may be unreliable. 6) Leave no trace: pack out what you bring, and do not disturb vegetation or wildlife.
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With 8.9 km and 795 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
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
Widgeon Creek Campsite
3.4 km away
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby communities and areas include Custer, Blaine (WA), Birch Bay (WA), and regional coastal and border attractions such as Boundary Bay / Birch Bay shoreline areas. Check local visitor resources for parks and beaches in the region.
Wildlife
Typical Pacific Northwest lowland wildlife may be present: deer, small mammals, birds, potential for black bears in forested areas, ticks, and insects. Be bear-aware in spring–fall; follow local guidance for food storage and encounter avoidance.
Cities near Hanging Creek Falls
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