Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
9.3 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
291 m
About Nepopekum Falls
Nepopekum Falls is a waterfall in E.C. Manning Provincial Park, British Columbia, and the second of three falls passed on the Three Falls Trail, between Shadow Falls and Derek Falls. It drops off the mountainside into the valley and is seen from a distance, through a signed gap in the trees beside the trail.
The Setting
Nepopekum Falls sits at 1,413 metres within E.C. Manning Park, in the mountains of British Columbia. At 70 metres, it is among the taller waterfalls in British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Nepopekum Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 101-145 million years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating a 230-foot drop that forms the waterfall.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 9.3-km out-and-back trail gains 291 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The Three Falls Trail from Strawberry Flats is about 9.3 km (5.8 miles) round trip with about 290 m (950 feet) of gain, out and back. The trail is wide and easy to follow. Nepopekum Falls is viewed from a signed opening in the trees; the trail continues to a lookout above Derek Falls.
What to Expect
The falls plunge 70 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 Nepopekum Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Nepopekum Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring to early summer (after snowmelt) typically offers the most dramatic flows. Summer can be drier and may reduce flow volume but usually provides easier road and trail access. Fall can offer good colors but water levels may be lower. Winter access may be difficult or hazardous due to snow, ice, and closed roads.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with E.C. Manning Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards may include: slippery rocks and steep wet banks near the falls; cold water and currents; unstable or steep terrain; stream crossings that may be hazardous during high flow; limited or no cell service; wildlife encounters (bears, cougars); changing weather and exposure to hypothermia in wet/cold conditions. If using unmaintained roads, be prepared for rough surfaces and for the possibility that two-wheel-drive vehicles may not reach the end of the road. Always check local conditions and closures before travel and carry emergency communication if available (satellite messenger, PLB).
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Chilliwack hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The trail starts at Strawberry Flats on Gibson Pass Road in E.C. Manning Provincial Park. It can also be reached on foot from the Lightning Lake Campground for a longer hike.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Strawberry Flats has a large parking area.
Elevation
1,413 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.058399° N, -120.928858° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Check recent trip reports, local hiking forums, or AllTrails for current access and condition reports before visiting. 2) Tell someone your route and expected return time; consider hiking with a partner. 3) Use topographic or GPS maps and carry a physical map and compass; do not rely solely on cell coverage. 4) Wear sturdy footwear with good traction; waterproof boots are recommended. 5) Be prepared for wet, slippery rocks and steep, uneven terrain near the falls. 6) Respect private property and posted closures; do not drive past locked gates. 7) Pack out all garbage and minimize impact on fragile riparian zones.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 9.3 km and 291 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
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
Strike Lake Campground
3.4 km away
Nearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Chilliwack, British Columbia
Baker Hot Spring
Baker Hot Spring emerges at 108 degrees Fahrenheit on US Forest Service land in Mt. Baker National Forest, flowing 59.5 degrees...
Dorr Fumarole Field
Dorr Fumarole Field reaches 194 degrees at 8,168 feet elevation on Mount Baker's active volcanic slopes, producing superheated ...
Sherman Crater Fumaroles
Sherman Crater Fumaroles register 266 degrees Fahrenheit at 9,463 feet elevation within the active volcanic crater atop Mount B...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Chilliwack, British Columbia on SoakingSprings.
Explore British Columbia springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Because precise publicly available visitor infrastructure information for Nepopekum Falls is limited, nearby attractions may include general regional destinations such as provincial parks, alpine hiking areas, and scenic river valleys. Confirm specific nearby attractions with local visitor centres or regional park information.
Wildlife
Typical southern BC mountain wildlife may be present: black bears, cougars, deer/moose, small mammals, and abundant insects (including mosquitoes in summer). Practice bear safety and store food securely.
Cities near Nepopekum Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Nepopekum Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.