Kiwi Falls
British Columbia • 475 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
18.0 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
533 m
About Kiwi Falls
Kiwi Falls is a relatively obscure waterfall on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, located at approximately 50.1545, -126.2136 (roughly 47.5 miles from Campbell River). Publicly available, authoritative trail and access information for this named feature is limited. The waterfall appears to be in a forested, likely rugged setting common to central/west Vancouver Island, expect dense coastal temperate rainforest, steep stream banks, and variable flow depending on season. Access may be remote and could involve unpaved or logging roads, and possibly bushwhacking or boating depending on exact location. Confirm route and conditions with local maps, land managers, and recent trip reports before attempting a visit.
The Setting
Kiwi Falls sits at 1,234 metres within SCHOEN LAKE PARK, in the mountains of British Columbia. At 475 metres, it is among the taller waterfalls in British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Kiwi 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 1558-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The hard 18.0-km out-and-back trail gains 533 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is no well-documented, widely published maintained trail to Kiwi Falls that could be confirmed from authoritative trail resources. If a route exists it may be an unmaintained path, a short scramble from a nearby logging road, or require water access. Visitors should expect variable terrain, possible bushwhacking, wet and slippery approaches, and limited navigation aids. Because reliable trail information is unavailable, treat this as a remote/unmarked destination and prepare accordingly.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 475 metres over hard volcanic 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 Kiwi Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Kiwi Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring often brings higher flows and dramatic water volume. Summer typically offers easier road and trail access with lower flows. Fall can provide good color and stable weather, but check for early-season storms. Winter access may be hazardous or impossible in some watersheds due to weather and road closures.
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
This location should be treated as remote and potentially hazardous. Primary hazards include: unstable and slippery banks, fast-flowing water, hypothermia from cold water, falling trees or debris in forested/logged areas, and limited cell coverage. Road access may include unmaintained logging roads that can be rough, gated, or seasonally closed. Always check local conditions, travel with a partner when possible, and carry appropriate safety and navigation gear.
Current Water Conditions
2.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
3.15 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
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 Campbell River hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Coordinates: 50.1545, -126.2136. The waterfall is on Vancouver Island, roughly 47.5 miles from Campbell River as noted by the user. Detailed public access routes are not confirmed; access may require travel on logging roads, rough secondary roads, or by boat depending on the watershed. Expect limited signage. Use up-to-date topographic maps, satellite imagery, and local sources (park/forest service, local hiking clubs) to plan travel.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No confirmed official parking or developed trailhead is documented. If accessing via forest service or logging roads, you may find informal pullouts; however, availability and legality can change, check current local guidance.
Elevation
1,234 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.154520° N, -126.213636° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Confirm exact location and access permissions before travelling. • Check recent trip reports, local hiking forums, and forestry/park service notices for road conditions and closures. • Wear waterproof boots with good traction; expect muddy, slippery approaches. • Tell someone your route and expected return time; consider a satellite communicator for remote trips. • Respect private property and logging operations; some access roads may be gated or closed. • Beware of unstable banks and avoid standing on wet rock near the edge of the falls.
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This challenging 18.0 km trail gains 533 m in elevation — come prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
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
Schoen Lake Provincial Campground
6.7 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Campbell River is the nearest larger community referenced (~47.5 miles away). There are many other natural attractions on Vancouver Island (provincial parks, other waterfalls, lakes), but exact nearby attractions to Kiwi Falls are not confirmed without verified route information.
Wildlife
Typical Vancouver Island wildlife may be present: black bear, black-tailed deer, cougars (rare), river otters, bald eagles, and various salmonid species in streams. Practice standard wildlife safety: store food securely, keep dogs leashed, and be bear-aware.
Cities near Kiwi Falls
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