About Vermilion Falls
Vermilion Falls is a waterfall on the Peace River in Alberta, Canada. It is the second largest waterfall in Canada by average flow rate after the Niagara Falls, and the largest entirely within the country. It is also the 6th widest waterfall in the world. The falls prevent the continuous navigation of the Peace River between its confluence with the Athabasca River and Hudson's Hope.
The Setting
Vermilion Falls sits at 239 metres in the foothills of Alberta. The falls drop 5 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Vermilion Falls flows over carbonate rock, primarily carbonate, laid down about 359-539 million years ago. These soft rocks erode readily, allowing the stream to carve a 15-foot drop into the landscape.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is little published information about a maintained trail to Vermilion Falls. Approaches, where possible, may follow informal paths, riverbanks or bush routes through muskeg and boreal forest. Expect uneven, wet, and potentially boggy terrain with limited signage. In many cases reaching the immediate falls area may require travel by watercraft or a cross-country route; local guides or experienced backcountry travelers are recommended.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 5 metres over soft fine-grained rock.
Accessibility
The site is likely not accessible to people with limited mobility. There is no known developed, wheelchair-accessible infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Vermilion Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Vermilion Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring to early fall is generally best for access and weather, spring for higher flows and summer/early fall for easier travel conditions. Winter visits may be possible for experienced winter travelers but will be more hazardous and may require specialized equipment.
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 and unstable banks, strong river currents, cold water, boggy/muskeg terrain, biting insects in summer, limited cell coverage, and remoteness that complicates rescue. Always tell someone your plan, carry emergency communication, and consider hiring local guides if unfamiliar with northern backcountry travel. Exercise caution around cliff edges and fast-flowing water. Seasonal river conditions (spring freshet) can dramatically change access and safety.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Access is typically remote. Visitors should expect that the falls are not adjacent to a developed highway or visitor center. Reaching the site may require boat travel on local rivers, a floatplane, or an extended off-road/overland approach. There may be no marked trail from public roads. Consult local authorities, outfitters, or guide services for up-to-date access advice.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No formal parking is known. If a roadside approach exists it is likely limited to informal pullouts; otherwise parking is not available at the falls themselves.
Elevation
239 metres above sea level
Coordinates
58.369881° N, -114.869046° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Plan for a self-sufficient trip: bring navigation (map/GPS), extra food/water, and emergency communication (satellite device if possible). Check river and weather conditions before travel. Hire a local guide or contact regional authorities if unsure about access. Wear waterproof footwear and clothing suitable for boggy terrain. Practice Leave No Trace: pack out all trash. Be prepared for insects in summer and for cold water and hypothermia risk near the falls.
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other remote river corridors, wetlands and boreal forest landscapes. Specific nearby named attractions are not well documented in publicly available sources for this coordinate, consult regional maps and local tourism or land management organizations for confirmed nearby sites.
Wildlife
Typical boreal species may be present: moose, beaver, waterfowl, migratory birds, black bear (and possibly grizzly in some northern areas), wolves, and smaller mammals. Take precautions around large wildlife and nesting waterfowl areas.
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Vermilion Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across Canada.
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