Shannon Falls
British Columbia • Stawamus Chief Park • 335 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.3 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
6 m
About Shannon Falls
Shannon Falls is a high, multi-tiered waterfall located in Shannon Falls Provincial Park just north of Squamish on the Sea-to-Sky corridor in British Columbia. The falls tumble dramatically from the coastal mountains and are easily viewed from a short, maintained path and viewing platform close to the park parking area.
The Setting
Shannon Falls sits at 163 metres within Stawamus Chief Park, in the foothills of British Columbia. At 335 metres, it is among the taller waterfalls in British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Shannon Falls flows over hard intrusive rock laid down about 66-101 million years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating a 1099-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Mineral Creek Falls (18 m) lies 5.6 kilometres to the southwest. Also nearby: Upper Shannon Falls (7 m, 0.3 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.3-km out-and-back trail gains 6 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
From the parking area a short, well-marked paved/boardwalk path leads to a primary viewing platform beneath the falls. The walk is brief (typically 5–15 minutes) and suitable for most visitors. The immediate route is maintained and relatively flat, though some short stairs or uneven sections may be present near the viewpoint. Signs and barriers keep visitors away from steep drop-offs; other hiking routes and more extensive trails in the surrounding park and nearby Squamish areas depart from other trailheads.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 335 metres over hard intrusive rock.
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 Shannon Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Shannon Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt) and early summer for the fullest flows and dramatic spray. Summer offers more reliable weather for travel. Fall can provide good light and fewer crowds. Winter visits are possible but may include icy trails and limited visibility from low clouds or snow, exercise extra caution.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Stawamus Chief Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery, wet surfaces and loose rock near the falls and along the shoreline; steep drop-offs and cliff edges; strong spray that can reduce visibility and soak clothing/equipment; possible falling rock in cliff areas. High water flows in spring and after heavy rain increase danger. In winter, ice can make trails extremely slick. Stay on designated paths, obey signs and barriers, supervise children, and do not climb on rocks near the falls.
Current Water Conditions
2.5 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 32 years of record
1.81 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 Vancouver hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Shannon Falls Provincial Park is located just off Highway 99 (Sea-to-Sky Highway) near Squamish, BC. From Vancouver it is approximately a 30–40 minute drive (about 21 miles). The main parking area for the falls is directly adjacent to the highway and the short trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Day-use parking lot at Shannon Falls Provincial Park adjacent to Highway 99. Parking can fill quickly on busy summer weekends and holidays. Expect a short walk from the lot to the viewing area. Check local signage for any parking restrictions or seasonal changes.
Elevation
163 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.669436° N, -123.155900° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early on weekends to secure parking. Wear sturdy, slip-resistant shoes because surfaces can be wet and slippery. Bring a rain jacket or waterproof cover for camera gear near the spray. Stay behind railings and obey posted warnings, cliffs and slippery rocks are hazardous. If you plan to explore beyond the developed viewpoint, be prepared for more rugged terrain and bring appropriate navigation and safety gear. Respect wildlife and pack out trash.
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For this easy 0.3 km trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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
Stawamus Chief Campground
0.9 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Sea to Sky Gondola (nearby), Stawamus Chief (hiking/climbing area), downtown Squamish (amenities, eateries), Britannia Mine Museum (a short drive north).
Wildlife
Typical coastal mountain wildlife may include black bears, deer, small mammals, and numerous bird species. Practice standard wildlife safety: keep distance, store food securely, and do not approach animals.
Cities near Shannon Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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