Menzies Falls
British Columbia • Golden Ears Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
4.8 km
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
144 m
About Menzies Falls
Menzies Falls is a forested cascade located in southern British Columbia near the Canada–US border. The falls sit near the communities listed in the request (Lynden, Abbotsford, and Custer) and are reported by local users to be a seasonal cascade whose flow is highest in spring and after heavy rain. Exact published data on drop height and official management is limited; visitors should treat descriptions as approximate and confirm local access before travel.
The Setting
Menzies Falls sits at 373 metres within Golden Ears Park, in the foothills of British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Menzies Falls flows over hard intrusive rock laid down about 101-162 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.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Whispering Falls (10 m) lies 6.0 kilometres to the southeast. Also nearby: Cliff Falls (9 m, 8.2 km) and Mike Falls (5 m, 3.4 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 4.8-km loop trail gains 144 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Detailed, authoritative trail descriptions are not widely published for Menzies Falls. Reports indicate a short walk from roadside access into forested terrain to view the cascade. Expect an informal tread that may be muddy, rooted, or steep in places. There may be no maintained boardwalks, viewing platforms, or marked switchbacks, use caution near edges and unstable ground. If a formal trailhead exists it may be described in local hiking forums or mapping apps; consult current trip reports.
What to Expect
A small to medium cascade or tiered waterfall set in mixed forest. Stream flow is highly seasonal, highest in spring runoff or after heavy rains and lower in late summer. Expect wet, moss-covered rocks, slippery banks, and possibly limited visibility under dense canopy. Wildlife typical of the region (songbirds, small mammals, and occasionally larger mammals) may be present. Facilities are likely minimal or nonexistent.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Menzies Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Menzies Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is generally best for highest water flow and more dramatic cascades. Fall can also provide good water levels and pleasant weather. Summer offers easier access but lower flow; winter can produce ice features but is more hazardous, check conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Golden Ears Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery and unstable rocks, steep drop-offs, fast-flowing or cold water, falling debris, variable trail conditions, limited or no cell coverage, and seasonal flooding. Always wear appropriate footwear, avoid cliff edges, supervise children closely, and do not enter the water unless conditions and your skills make it safe. Check weather and recent trip reports before visiting and carry a basic first-aid kit.
Current Water Conditions
0.4 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 67 years of record
0.17 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
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Abbotsford hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Coordinates: 49.2834, -122.5161. The falls are accessed from local forest/roadside access in the Lynden/Abbotsford border region; approach typically requires driving on secondary roads and then a short walk. Expect unmarked or minimally signed access in the immediate area, confirm directions with a local map or online trail reports before you go. Distances to nearby places: Lynden ~18.9 miles, Abbotsford ~20.5 miles, Custer ~23.2 miles (approximate).
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is likely limited to a small roadside pullout or informal parking area; there may be no developed lot or facilities. Park well off the road and avoid blocking driveways or narrow logging roads. If unsure, use a mapped trailhead or designated parking in nearby parks.
Elevation
373 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.283428° N, -122.516098° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Check recent trip reports or local land manager/park websites for up-to-date access and parking info before you go. • Wear sturdy, grippy footwear; surfaces near the falls are often slippery and uneven. • Bring a map or GPS and save offline maps, cell coverage may be unreliable. • Stay back from the edge and avoid climbing on wet rocks or cliffs. • Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles. • If visiting in winter or high-water season, be extra cautious of fast currents and hypothermia risk.
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This easy 4.8 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
Alouette Groupsite
2.5 km away
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby communities include Lynden and Abbotsford; local outdoor attractions in the broader region may include Sumas Prairie, regional parks and trails, and rivers used for fishing and paddling. Confirm specifics with regional tourism or park sources.
Wildlife
Typical Pacific Northwest wildlife may be present: songbirds, small mammals, deer, and potentially black bears or cougars in more remote forested areas. Take normal wildlife precautions: store food securely, keep distance, and make noise to avoid surprising large animals.
Cities near Menzies Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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