Kennedy River Falls
British Columbia • 9 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.3 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
6 m
About Kennedy River Falls
Kennedy River Falls is a roadside waterfall on the Kennedy River on Vancouver Island, located along Highway 4 between Port Alberni and the west coast communities near Tofino. The falls are reached from a short trail or viewpoint near a highway pullout and are set in coastal temperate rainforest with typical cedar, hemlock and alder. Flow is highest in late fall through spring with lower flows in summer. Specific vertical height measurements are not well documented.
The Setting
Kennedy River Falls sits at 129 metres within CLAYOQUOT PLATEAU PARK, in the coastal lowlands of British Columbia. The falls drop 9 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Kennedy River Falls flows over hard volcanic rock laid down about 201-252 million years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating a 30-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.3-km out-and-back trail gains 6 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
A short, mostly flat walk from the highway pullout leads to a viewpoint over the Kennedy River and the falls. The trail is typically well defined but may be narrow, muddy and include a few short sections of uneven ground or small stairs. Expect a brief walk of several minutes each way. Look for a roadside sign or small access path near the bridge.
What to Expect
The falls drop 9 metres over hard volcanic rock.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Kennedy River Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Kennedy River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall for higher water flow and dramatic falls; summer for easier driving and drier trail conditions. Fall can also offer salmon runs in local rivers and migrating bird activity. Winter storms deliver strong flow but access can be affected by weather.
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
Primary hazards include slippery and muddy trails, unstable riverbanks, and strong currents in the river, especially during high flow seasons. Weather can change rapidly on Vancouver Island; dress for wet conditions. Cell coverage may be limited; tell someone your plans and expected return time. Be bear-aware: make noise on the trail, secure food, and keep pets under control. Follow all posted signs and closures.
Current Water Conditions
0.6 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 30 years of record
1.23 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 TOFINO CREEK NEAR THE MOUTH (16 km away).
Today
Moderate
0.5 m³/s
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
0.6 m³/s
8/10Tue
Moderate
0.5 m³/s
6/10Wed
Moderate
0.5 m³/s
6/10Thu
Moderate
0.4 m³/s
6/10Fri
Moderate
0.3 m³/s
6/10Sat
Moderate
0.4 m³/s
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early November to mid November, peaking in October.
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 Tofino 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 are accessed from Highway 4 (the Pacific Rim Highway). Use the highway pullout/parking area near the Kennedy River bridge; the coordinates for the general area are approximately 49.2143, -125.3685. From Tofino the drive is roughly 26 miles; from Courtenay about 38 miles.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Small roadside pullout/parking area adjacent to the highway. Space is limited; park well off the travel lanes and do not block the shoulder. There is no formal large parking lot.
Elevation
129 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.214268° N, -125.368452° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear, trail and rocks can be muddy and slippery. Stay back from the river edge; banks can be unstable. Bring rain gear and insect repellent in warmer months. Parking is limited, so pull well off the road and avoid blocking traffic. Leave no trace and pack out all trash. Check road conditions on Highway 4 in winter and during heavy storms.
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For this easy 0.3 km trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
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
Trailhead Campground
20 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Kennedy Lake, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve (Long Beach/Tofino area), Ucluelet, hiking and beach access near Tofino. Port Alberni and other central Vancouver Island attractions are also within driving distance.
Wildlife
You may encounter bald eagles, herons, river otters, black bears, deer and a variety of shore and forest birds. Salmon runs may occur in season. Observe wildlife from a distance and do not approach or feed animals.
Cities near Kennedy River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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