Upper Cypress Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 km
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
30 m
About Upper Cypress Falls
Upper Cypress Falls is a small, scenic cascade on Cypress Creek in the Cypress Falls Park area of West Vancouver, BC. The falls sit inside a mossy, coastal temperate rainforest with short boardwalks, footbridges and viewpoints that make them a popular short outing for families and visitors. Water flow is highest in spring and after rain; summer flows can be reduced.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Upper Cypress 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 the falls where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Bridal Veil falls (2 m) lies 8.0 kilometres to the west.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.0-km loop trail gains 30 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The Cypress Falls Loop is a short, well-established route that uses boardwalks, stairs and packed dirt trails through a mossy coastal forest to reach viewpoints above and beside the cascades. The path is well-marked and popular for short outings; multiple short viewpoints and interpretive signs are along the route. Sections include wooden staircases and narrow bridges over the creek. The loop can be completed in 20–45 minutes depending on stops.
What to Expect
Expect a short, easy walk through dense, wet forest with plenty of moss, ferns and dripping canyon walls. The creek and falls are most impressive in spring or after heavy rain. Trails include stairs and boardwalks; surfaces can be wet and slippery. There are viewpoints above and beside the cascades but no large beach or extensive pool for swimming. Cell service may be intermittent in some sections.
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 Upper Cypress Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Cypress Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late winter through spring for the strongest flows and lush green forest. Summer offers drier, easier hiking conditions but lower water flow. Fall can also provide good water flows and colorful forest tones. Winter visits are possible but may be icy; use caution.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Slippery boardwalks, stairs and wet rocks are the primary hazards, use caution and appropriate footwear. Water levels and currents can rise rapidly after rain; stay away from creek edges and do not climb on wet rocks. In winter, expect ice and possible snow; traction devices are recommended. Limited parking and narrow roadside pullouts increase risk, park legally and be visible to traffic. If wildlife is encountered, keep distance and do not approach.
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 28 years of record
0.53 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 Vancouver hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The falls are located in the Cypress Falls Park area of West Vancouver, accessible from Cypress Bowl Road off Highway 1 (near the Cypress Mountain / West Vancouver area). From downtown Vancouver it is roughly a 20–30 minute drive (about 9.6 miles as given). Use local parking areas along Cypress Bowl Road and follow signed trails to the Cypress Falls loop. Public transit access is limited; driving or rideshare is typical.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Small parking areas and pullouts are available near the trailhead along Cypress Bowl Road and municipal parking near the park entrance. Parking can fill quickly on weekends or sunny days. Expect narrow roads and limited spaces; park legally and avoid blocking driveways.
Elevation
329 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.359499° N, -123.233341° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear, wet boardwalks and rocks are slippery. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking. Stay on marked trails and viewing platforms; do not climb on wet rocks or down to the creek edge. Bring a waterproof layer in rainy seasons and insect repellent in summer. Check local park or municipal pages for closures or trail advisories before visiting.
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For this easy 1.0 km trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
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
Apodaca Marine Campsite
7.7 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Cypress Mountain (recreation and ski area), Cypress Provincial Park trails, Whytecliff Park (marine and tidepool viewing), Lighthouse Park, Capilano River and Capilano Suspension Bridge (a short drive away).
Wildlife
Expect common coastal species such as small mammals (squirrels, raccoons), many bird species, and amphibians in wet areas. Black bears and larger wildlife are possible in the broader region, store food securely and give wildlife space.
Cities near Upper Cypress Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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