Upper Morrissey Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.8 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Upper Morrissey Falls
Upper Morrissey Falls is a lesser-known waterfall in southeastern British Columbia near the Canada–U.S. border (coordinates 49.4069, -114.9206). The falls are part of the Morrissey Creek/tributary system and sit in a remote, forested setting. Upper Morrissey is generally less developed and less visited than lower cascades in the area; approach typically involves unpaved forestry or logging roads and a short off-trail or minimally maintained scramble to viewpoints. Specifics about the vertical drop and exact waterfall morphology vary by source and season and are not well-documented publicly, so details here are conservative.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Upper Morrissey Falls flows over Crowsnest Formation, a layered sedimentary rock layer deposited about 3-145 million years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating the step that forms the waterfall.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Approach routes to Upper Morrissey Falls are generally informal. Visitors should expect an unmaintained route or short scramble from a forestry road or pullout; route-finding skills may be required. Trails, if present, can be rocky, steep in places, and may cross muddy or wet ground. Because this is a remote area, there are typically no constructed viewpoints, railings or maintained stairs. The surroundings are forested with variable undergrowth and fallen timber.
What to Expect
A remote, forested waterfall setting with minimal visitor infrastructure. Seasonal flow can vary widely, higher in spring snowmelt and after heavy rain, lower in late summer. Expect wet, slippery rock near the creek, steep banks, and limited clear viewpoints. No drinking water, restrooms, or signage should be assumed. Wildlife such as deer, moose, and black bears may be present in the area.
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 Morrissey Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Morrissey Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (snowmelt) for highest flows and dramatic water levels; late spring to early summer often combines good flow with more reliable road conditions. Summer offers more stable access but lower flows. Fall can provide good color and fewer visitors; winter access may be difficult or unsafe due to snow and ice.
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
Hazards include slippery rocks, steep or unstable banks, fast-moving water during high flow, loose footing on unmaintained approaches, limited or no cell reception, and possible wildlife encounters (including bears). Roads may be gated, seasonally closed or subject to logging activity, do not block gates. Always check recent trip reports or contact local land managers for up-to-date conditions and access advisories.
Current Water Conditions
287.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 59 years of record
3.17 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 Cranbrook 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 southeastern British Columbia near the U.S. towns of Eureka, Fortine and West Kootenai (all in Montana) and just north of the international border. Access typically requires travel on secondary paved roads followed by gravel/forestry roads; the final approach is often on rough, unmaintained roads and may require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. Expect limited signage and possible private land or active logging operations nearby, confirm access and current road conditions with local authorities before travel.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is no official parking lot. Parking is likely limited to informal pullouts along a forestry road or at the end of a logging spur. Vehicles should be parked safely off the travel surface and not block gates or active access roads.
Elevation
1,452 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.406886° N, -114.920583° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Confirm current access, road conditions and any private land restrictions before you go. • Use a high-clearance vehicle for gravel/forestry roads; 4WD may be required in poor conditions. • Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for a short scramble; trekking poles can help on uneven ground. • Expect minimal or no cell service; bring a map, compass/GPS and tell someone your plans. • Practice Leave No Trace, pack out all trash and avoid disturbing vegetation or historic features. • Be bear aware (carry bear spray and know how to use it) and store food securely. • Avoid going onto wet rocks or downstream edges, currents and undercut banks can be hazardous.
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
Mount Fernie Campground
15.3 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby communities (on the U.S. side) include Eureka, Fortine and West Kootenai. The region has other outdoor opportunities such as backcountry hiking, lakes and forestry roads for exploring; more developed tourism hubs (e.g., Cranbrook or Fernie) are a longer drive. Lake Koocanusa and the Kootenai/Flathead river systems are regionally nearby.
Wildlife
Black bear, moose, deer, small mammals, and a variety of bird species (including raptors). Standard wildlife precautions are advised, store food securely and make noise while hiking in areas of limited visibility.
Cities near Upper Morrissey Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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