Takakkaw Falls
British Columbia • Yoho National Park • 373 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.4 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
36 m
About Takakkaw Falls
Takakkaw Falls is a waterfall in Yoho National Park, near Field, British Columbia, in Canada. The falls have a total height of 373 metres (1,224 ft), making them the second tallest waterfall in Canada. The World Waterfall Database however lists about 55 higher waterfalls in Canada.The main drop of the waterfall has a height of 254 metres (833 ft).
The Setting
Takakkaw Falls sits at 1,862 metres within Yoho National Park, in the high mountains of British Columbia. At 373 metres, it is among the taller waterfalls in British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Takakkaw Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 485-539 million years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating a 1224-foot drop that forms the waterfall.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Angel's Staircase Falls (305 m) lies 2.3 kilometres to the northwest. Also nearby: Twin Falls (180 m, 6.6 km) and Laughing Falls (30 m, 4.2 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.4-km out-and-back trail gains 36 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
From the parking area a short well-marked trail (paved/gravel and in places with steps) leads up into the valley to a series of viewpoints. The main viewpoint provides a dramatic view of the multi-tiered falls and the valley below. The walk is short but may be steep in sections and can be slippery from spray and meltwater. There are a few short spur trails and viewpoints; do not cross barriers or scramble on unstable talus near the waterfall.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 373 metres over layered sedimentary 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 Takakkaw Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Takakkaw Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring through early summer (May–July) for the highest flows from snowmelt; early morning or late afternoon for smaller crowds and softer light for photography. Fall offers color and fewer crowds; winter offers ice formations but may have restricted access.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Yoho National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery surfaces from spray and meltwater, rapidly changing mountain weather, rockfall and icefall near the cliff faces, and cold glacier-fed water. Stay on designated trails and behind barriers, keep a safe distance from the base and edges, and avoid scrambling on talus. In winter expect icy surfaces and avalanche risk; check road and trail advisories. Be prepared for limited cell service and carry a map, extra layers, and emergency supplies.
Current Water Conditions
41.2 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 69 years of record
2.00 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
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 Lake Louise hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Takakkaw Falls is accessed from Yoho Valley Road in Yoho National Park. From Lake Louise (approx. 15.5 miles / 25 km) follow the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) west to Field, then take the signed turn onto Yoho Valley Road. The falls are reached via a short trail from the Yoho Valley Road parking area. Check Parks Canada or local road reports for seasonal closures or restrictions on Yoho Valley Road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a parking area near the trailhead off Yoho Valley Road. Parking can fill up quickly in peak season; overflow parking and shuttle measures may be in effect during busy periods. A Parks Canada park pass or day-use fee is typically required to enter Yoho National Park.
Elevation
1,862 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.500223° N, -116.473461° W
Land Management
Managed by Parks Canada Agency
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early or later in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds. Bring a Parks Canada pass or be prepared to pay park entry fees. Wear waterproof layers and sturdy, non-slip footwear, trail and viewing areas may be wet and muddy. Keep a safe distance from cliffs, fast water, and unstable talus. Check current road and trail conditions with Parks Canada before travel. If visiting in winter, bring traction devices and be prepared for winter driving and avalanche hazard/road closures.
This trail sits at 6,109 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 24% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
For this easy 1.4 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
Takakkaw Falls Campground
1.1 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Emerald Lake, Lake O'Hara (access via permit/lottery), Burgess Shale fossil sites (guided programs), Field (townsite), Lake Louise (approx. 15.5 miles away), and other Yoho National Park viewpoints.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the area includes black and grizzly bears, elk, deer, mountain goats, marmots, and various bird species. Be bear aware: store food properly and carry bear spray where recommended.
Cities near Takakkaw Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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