Hixon Waterfall
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.8 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
69 m
About Hixon Waterfall
Hixon Waterfall is a small, locally known cascade in the Cariboo/Fraser River region of central British Columbia near the community of Hixon, roughly between Quesnel and Prince George. The fall appears on small tributary streams in the area and is best known to local visitors and forestry road users. Specific published data on vertical height and formal trail infrastructure is limited; the waterfall may be a modest roadside or short-walk cascade rather than a large developed attraction.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Hixon Waterfall flows over hard volcanic rock laid down about 145-252 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 easy 1.8-km out-and-back trail gains 69 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is limited formal trail information for Hixon Waterfall. Approach typically involves parking at a roadside or small pullout and walking a short distance over uneven, possibly brushy ground to the stream. The descent to the water may be steep in places and unmaintained. Surfaces can be slippery, with roots, loose rock, and wet banks. Expect minimal or no signage and no constructed stairs or railings.
What to Expect
A relatively small, natural cascade in a forested interior-BC setting. Flow can vary widely by season, highest in spring freshet and lower in late summer and fall. The immediate area is likely wooded with alder/spruce and underbrush. There are no formal visitor facilities (toilets, picnic tables, or marked viewpoints) noted for this site. Cell coverage may be limited in some spots.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Hixon Waterfall?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hixon Waterfall?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt/freshet) for strongest flows and dramatic water; early summer for good access and scenery. Summer and early fall usually have easier road access and drier trails. Winter access may be limited by snow, and the water may be frozen or icy, visit only with proper winter gear and local knowledge.
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 rocks, steep and unmaintained banks, variable flow rates (spring freshet can increase flow quickly), limited cell coverage, and wildlife encounters (including bears). Logging or forestry traffic may use nearby roads; use caution when parking or walking near roads. If conditions are uncertain, choose a more conservative plan and avoid risky approaches near water edges.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 27.3 km away
30.4 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 72 years of record
-0.33 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 regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Quesnel hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Coordinates: 53.449, -122.5571. The site is in the general Hixon area along Highway 97 between Quesnel (approx. 26 miles) and Prince George (approx. 32 miles). Access is likely via Highway 97 and local/forestry roads near the community of Hixon. Depending on the exact pullout, reaching the waterfall may require leaving the highway onto a short gravel spur or walking a short distance through roadside vegetation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is likely informal, a small roadside pullout or gravel shoulder. Expect no formal lot, signage, or maintained facilities. Use caution pulling off a highway shoulder; parking availability and safety may vary seasonally.
Elevation
649 metres above sea level
Coordinates
53.448980° N, -122.557113° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Use a map or GPS (enter the provided coordinates) and plan for limited signage. • Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear; approach areas can be slippery and uneven. • Expect limited or no cell service; let someone know your plans if heading onto forestry roads. • Carry insect repellent in spring and summer. • Be bear-aware: carry bear spray where appropriate and know how to use it; store food securely. • Do not climb on wet rocks or approach edges; currents can be deceptively strong. • Pack out what you pack in; there may be no waste facilities.
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This easy 1.8 km hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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.
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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
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
Camp Lake Recreation Site
18.3 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Community of Hixon, Highway 97 corridor scenery, Fraser River valley areas, provincial forests. Larger service centers: Quesnel (~26 miles) and Prince George (~32 miles).
Wildlife
Interior BC wildlife may include black bears, moose, deer, coyotes, small mammals, and many bird species. Insect activity (mosquitoes, black flies) can be high in spring and summer.
Cities near Hixon Waterfall
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