Josephine Falls
British Columbia • 25 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Photo Credits (5)
About Josephine Falls
Josephine Falls is a waterfall on the Fording River just outside Elkford in the Elk Valley of southeastern British Columbia. The falls drop about 25 metres through a rocky canyon and are reached on the Josephine Falls Trail, one of the District of Elkford's listed local trails.
The Setting
Josephine Falls sits at 1,492 metres within Privately Protected Area (NCC 1001320), in the mountains of British Columbia. The falls drop 25 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Josephine 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 82-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The Josephine Falls Trail follows the Fording River near Elkford. Published distances disagree (one visitor described about five miles round trip from a campground), so check the current route with the Elkford Visitor Centre before going.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 25 metres over hard intrusive rock.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Josephine Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Josephine Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring to early summer for highest water flow and vibrant vegetation; fall for lower visitor numbers and autumn colours. Avoid visiting after heavy storms if roads are unpaved, and be cautious in winter when access may be limited by snow and ice.
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
Hazards may include: slippery and mossy rocks near the falls; unstable or steep banks; fast or cold water; limited or no cell service; unmarked trails; variable road conditions on secondary/forest roads; potential wildlife encounters. Use caution near edges, do not climb wet rocks, and avoid entering water if you are unsure of depth/current. Check local conditions and closures before travel.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the Water Survey of Canada gauge on Fording River, 14.3 km away, not on Josephine Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
4.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 55 years of record
1.89 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.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge FORDING RIVER AT THE MOUTH (14 km away).
Today
Strong
4.1 m³/s
9/10Tomorrow
Strong
4.4 m³/s
8/10Sat
Strong
4.4 m³/s
7/10Sun
Strong
4.2 m³/s
7/10Mon
Strong
3.9 m³/s
9/10Tue
Strong
4.3 m³/s
8/10Wed
Strong
4.3 m³/s
8/10Best window: Today — strong flow, cloudy (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late July, 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 Cranbrook hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Start from Elkford. One visitor reported that the trailhead was hard to find and unsigned at the first spot they tried, and a ranger directed them to the correct start, so ask at the Elkford Visitor Centre (750 Fording Drive) for directions to the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsElevation
1,492 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.022607° N, -114.876615° W
Land Management
Managed by Nature Conservancy of Canada
Visitor Tips & Gear
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Elkford Municipal Campground
2.9 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other Elkford trails include Bare Hill Lookout and the Lost Lake and Lily Lake loops.
Wildlife
This is grizzly country: WildSafeBC Elk Valley has reported hikers being bluff charged by a grizzly with cubs on the Josephine Falls Trail. Carry bear spray and make noise.
Cities near Josephine Falls
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