Onyx Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.1 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
105 m
About Onyx Falls
Onyx Falls is a lesser-documented cascade in the interior of British Columbia near the coordinates 50.9825, -119.3124. It is located in a mostly forested, backcountry setting between Revelstoke (roughly 48.6 miles away) and Kamloops (roughly 58.6 miles). Visitor reports are limited; the waterfall appears to be a seasonal to semi-perennial cascade on a tributary stream with highest flow in spring snowmelt and after heavy rain. Access and on-site facilities are not well documented and may require travel on unpaved/forestry roads. Details such as exact height, formal trailhead, and maintained facilities are not reliably documented and are therefore reported conservatively below.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Onyx Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 252 million to 1.0 billion years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating the step that forms the waterfall.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.1-km out-and-back trail gains 105 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is no widely maintained or documented trail description available for Onyx Falls. Visitors report either short, informal scrambles from a roadside pullout or route-finding along unmarked game/forestry trails. Expect uneven terrain, natural obstacles (downed trees, brush), and potentially steep short sections near the falls. Trail may be poorly defined; route-finding skills and caution are advised.
What to Expect
A small to medium forested cascade with seasonal variation in flow (peak in spring). Limited or no amenities (no guardrails, bridges, or formal viewing platforms). Wet, mossy rock and slippery approaches near pools. Likely limited cell coverage. Wildlife typical of BC interior (black bears, deer, small mammals). Scenic forested setting rather than a highly developed tourist site.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Onyx Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Onyx Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt) for highest flows and lush scenery; early summer for good access and stable weather. Late summer/fall may have reduced flow but good color. Winter conditions can freeze falls and make access difficult or hazardous due to snow, ice, and closed forestry roads.
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
Hazards may include unmarked or poorly maintained trails, slippery and mossy rock, steep drop-offs near the falls, cold water and risk of hypothermia, limited cell coverage, and seasonal road/bridge closures. Forestry roads may have logging traffic and locked gates. Always tell someone your route and expected return time, check weather and local road reports, bring navigation tools, and exercise caution near water and cliffs.
Current Water Conditions
0.8 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 46 years of record
1.18 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
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 Revelstoke hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
GPS coordinates (50.9825, -119.3124) are recommended for navigation. The site is in a rural/forest area off the main Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) corridor between Revelstoke and Kamloops; local access often requires using secondary or forestry roads. Roads may be rough, unmarked, gated, or seasonally closed. Expect limited signage. Use a detailed topo/GPS, check local forest service or district office for road conditions, and consider a high-clearance vehicle.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Likely informal/roadside parking or a small pullout. No confirmed official parking lot, vault toilet, or staffed facilities. Park well off travel lanes and avoid blocking gates or driveways. Parking surface may be gravel or dirt and can be muddy after rain.
Elevation
559 metres above sea level
Coordinates
50.982474° N, -119.312353° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Use the provided GPS coordinates and a reliable map/GPS unit; do not rely solely on cell service. 2) Check local forestry service or park district for road and access conditions before traveling. 3) Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear and bring rain layers; rocks and approaches are often slippery. 4) If you plan to drive forestry roads, consider a high-clearance vehicle and be prepared for rough conditions. 5) Respect private property and posted signs; many access routes in this region cross Crown land and active forestry areas. 6) Practice Leave No Trace principles; pack out all waste.
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With 3.1 km and 105 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
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Nearby Campground
Camp Grafton
4.8 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Mount Revelstoke National Park and Revelstoke town to the east (approximately 48–50 miles by road), Shuswap Lake/Sicamous region to the south. The area contains numerous backcountry trails, viewpoints, and other smaller waterfalls and rivers typical of the Columbia-Shuswap interior region.
Wildlife
Interior British Columbia species: black bears (and possibly grizzly in some zones), cougars, deer, moose, small mammals, and a variety of birds. Standard wilderness precautions apply: make noise on approach, carry bear spray where appropriate, store food securely.
Cities near Onyx Falls
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