Ring Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.6 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Ring Creek Falls
Ring Creek Falls is a small to medium cascade located in the coastal temperate rainforest north of Vancouver, British Columbia. The falls sit on Ring Creek and are reached by forest trails/roads in the Sea-to-Sky / North Shore region. Flow and appearance vary by season, with highest flows in spring and early summer from snowmelt and heavy rains. Trail access and exact viewpoint conditions may be informal or minimally signed; reachability can depend on recent trail maintenance and weather.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Ring Creek Falls flows over hard volcanic rock laid down about 0-66 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
Skookum Falls (20 m) lies 2.9 kilometres to the east. Also nearby: Mamquam Falls (19 m, 4.7 km) and Upper Skookum Falls (10 m, 3.2 km).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail access to Ring Creek Falls may be a single-track or unmaintained forest route that can include muddy sections, roots, and steep or rocky approaches near the creek. The last approach to the falls may require scrambling over rocks and can be slippery. Trail length and elevation gain vary by chosen approach; some visitors report a relatively short hike from nearby forest roads but expect uneven terrain and limited signage. Winter and early-spring conditions can add snow or ice to the route.
What to Expect
Expect a wooded setting with mossy rock and wet forest vegetation. The waterfall can present multiple drops/cascades depending on the season and water flow. There are likely no formal viewpoints, railings, or maintained viewing platforms. Water levels are highest in spring; late-summer flows may be reduced. Cell reception may be intermittent in some parts of the approach.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ring Creek Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ring Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer for strongest flows and best photo opportunities; late summer for drier trails. Winter visits are possible but expect icy, snowy, or more hazardous conditions, use appropriate gear.
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 include slippery wet rocks, steep or unstable banks, fast or cold water, sudden changes in flow after heavy rain, limited or no railings, and variable trail conditions. In winter expect ice and snow, use crampons or traction devices when appropriate. Cell reception may be unreliable; tell someone your plan and expected return time. If unsure about conditions, choose a safer, better-known waterfall with maintained trails.
Current Water Conditions
25.3 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 33 years of record
1.83 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.
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Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The falls are located at approximately 49.7349, -123.0295, north of Vancouver. Access is typically from local forest roads or trails in the Sea-to-Sky / North Shore corridor; exact access routes may change with logging activity or trail conditions. Visitors should use a reliable mapping app or GPS coordinates, check recent trip reports, and confirm any road closures before setting out.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is likely informal and limited near trailheads or pullouts on local forest roads. There may be no designated parking lot, signage, or facilities; park considerately without blocking gates or narrow logging-road pullouts. Expect to carry gear a short distance if parking is off-road.
Elevation
398 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.734930° N, -123.029502° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Check recent trail and road reports before you go; conditions can change after storms or logging activity. • Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear with good traction; approach rocks near the falls will be slippery. • Bring a map or GPS and note the coordinates; signage may be minimal. • Avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls or standing on wet rocks. • Pack out what you bring in; there are likely no facilities at the site. • If visiting in bear country, carry bear-aware equipment and know how to use it.
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
Raffuse Creek Recreation Area
2.4 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Sea-to-Sky corridor attractions include Shannon Falls, the Stawamus Chief (Squamish), and sections of Garibaldi Provincial Park. Local viewpoints, hiking trails, and forested corridors are common in the area, confirm distances and routes before including multiple stops in one trip.
Wildlife
Typical coastal-British Columbia wildlife may be present: black bears, cougars (rare but possible), coyotes, deer, and a variety of birds (including bald eagles and songbirds). Take normal wildlife precautions: store food securely, make noise on trails, and keep children and dogs close.
Cities near Ring Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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