Lower Falls
Alberta • Banff National Park • 9 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
2.4 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
40 m
About Lower Falls
Lower Falls is a small, scenic cascade located inside Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies near the coordinates 51.2549, -115.8373. It sits roughly 15.8 miles from the town of Banff and about 23.4 miles from Lake Louise. The falls are set in montane/subalpine forest and are most frequently visited for short viewpoint stops and photography. Flow and appearance vary seasonally (high flows in spring snowmelt, lower flows in late summer) and the site may be frozen or partially icy in winter. Specifics about the exact drop and formal trail infrastructure are not confidently documented here, so visitors should expect a natural, relatively undeveloped viewpoint and exercise caution near edges and along riverbanks.
The Setting
Lower Falls sits at 1,495 metres within Banff National Park, in the mountains of Alberta. The falls drop 9 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Lower Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 323-419 million years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating a 30-foot drop that forms the waterfall.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Water Falls (50 m) lies 5.3 kilometres to the west. Also nearby: Upper Falls (30 m, 0.8 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 2.4-km out-and-back trail gains 40 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail access to the Lower Falls is typically a short walk from a nearby parking/pullout, but the route may be natural (dirt/rock), uneven, and include roots, rocks and short steep sections near viewpoints. There may be brief ungraded sections or informal social trails to get closer to the water; these can be slippery and eroded. Expect no formal boardwalks or guardrails in some locations, exercise caution and stay back from cliff edges.
What to Expect
The falls drop 9 metres over layered sedimentary rock.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lower Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring for highest flows and dramatic runoff; summer for warm weather and easier access; fall for color and fewer crowds; winter for ice formations but only if you have appropriate winter gear and experience. Early morning or late afternoon visits typically avoid the largest crowds and provide better light for photography.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Banff National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery rocks, steep drop-offs, unstable edges, sudden high water during spring runoff or heavy rain, cold river temperatures, loose footing on unmaintained trails, and wildlife encounters (including bears). In winter, avalanche hazard, icy trails, and severe cold are concerns. Always stay on marked trails, keep children close, avoid getting too close to the edge, check current river and trail conditions, carry communication and bear spray, and let someone know your plans.
Current Water Conditions
170.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 117 years of record
3.02 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
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 Banff hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Lower Falls is located inside Banff National Park. From the town of Banff follow the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) toward Lake Louise; the falls are accessed from a nearby trailhead or roadside pullout in the same general stretch of parkland (see coordinates 51.2549, -115.8373). Exact signed trailheads and parking locations may vary; check current Parks Canada maps or local trail listings before you go.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is likely limited to a small roadside pullout or a nearby trailhead lot. Expect no staffed visitor services at the immediate site; lots and pullouts can fill quickly in peak season. Park in designated areas only and do not block road shoulders.
Elevation
1,495 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.254864° N, -115.837323° W
Land Management
Managed by Parks Canada Agency
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Carry and display a Parks Canada pass for vehicle entry to Banff National Park. 2) Wear sturdy footwear, rocks and trails can be slippery. 3) Stay on designated trails and maintain distance from the water and cliff edges. 4) Do not climb on wet rocks or attempt to descend to the base of the falls unless there is a clearly established and safe access route. 5) Carry bear spray and know how to use it; make noise on approach and store food securely. 6) Check local conditions and recent visitor reports (AllTrails, Parks Canada) for trail status before visiting.
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This easy 2.4 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.
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
Johnston Canyon Campground
1.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Town of Banff (approx. 15.8 miles), Lake Louise (approx. 23.4 miles), other Banff National Park attractions such as scenic drives, viewpoints, hiking trails and picnic areas. Check local maps for exact distances and directions.
Wildlife
Typical Rocky Mountain wildlife may be present, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, black bear and grizzly bear, coyotes and various small mammals and birds. Maintain distance and follow Parks Canada wildlife safety guidelines.
Cities near Lower Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Lower Falls
19 other waterfalls share this name across Canada.
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