Virginia Falls
Northwest Territories • 96 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
Before you go
Virginia Falls (Náįlįcho) has no road access; nearly all visitors arrive by floatplane with a licensed charter operator. Overnight visitors need a reservation and must register with the park within 24 hours of entering, and only 24 people may arrive at Náįlįcho each day.
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
2.6 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
92 m
About Virginia Falls
Virginia Falls is a waterfall in Nahanni National Park Reserve, Northwest Territories, Canada. It is on the South Nahanni River, at an elevation of 500 m (1,600 ft). It is located 120 km (75 mi) from the Yukon border.
The Setting
Virginia Falls sits at 560 metres within Nahanni National Park Reserve Of Canada, in the hills of Northwest Territories. At 96 metres, it is among the taller waterfalls in Northwest Territories.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Virginia Falls flows over layered carbonate rock, primarily limestone and dolostone, laid down about 359-539 million years ago. These soft rocks erode readily, allowing the stream to carve a 315-foot drop into the landscape.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 2.6-km out-and-back trail gains 92 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
From the floatplane docks above the falls, a portage trail, mostly boardwalk, leads to the viewing area above the falls in about 20 minutes, and a trail continues down toward the base. Parks Canada describes the portage as steep and narrow; the boardwalk was rebuilt on a gentler grade starting in 2018 because permafrost heave had damaged it.
What to Expect
The falls plunge a dramatic 96 metres over layered carbonate rock.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Virginia Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $37.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Virginia Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late June through August offers the most reliable access and milder weather. Spring (late snowmelt) can mean higher flows and dramatic water levels but may be logistically harder. Early fall can be quieter with good colors. Winter access is extremely limited and typically not practical for casual visitors.
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
Major hazards include extreme remoteness, rapidly changing weather, cold water and strong river currents, slippery edges near the canyon, steep drops, and wildlife (bears). There is little or no cell service. Visitors should carry proper safety equipment (including bear spray and an emergency locator), travel with experienced guides if unfamiliar with remote river travel, and follow Parks Canada guidance. Do not approach cliff edges or attempt to descend into the canyon. Conditions can change quickly, be prepared to delay or alter plans.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the Water Survey of Canada gauge on South Nahanni River, 4.5 km away, not on Virginia Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
144.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 55 years of record
2.25 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge SOUTH NAHANNI RIVER ABOVE VIRGINIA FALLS (5 km away).
Today
Strong
144 m³/s
9/10Tomorrow
Strong
135 m³/s
9/10Sat
Strong
128 m³/s
9/10Sun
Strong
118 m³/s
9/10Mon
Strong
109 m³/s
9/10Tue
Strong
106 m³/s
9/10Wed
Strong
101 m³/s
9/10Best window: Today — strong flow, fog (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late May to mid August, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest WSC stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
There are no public roads in Nahanni National Park Reserve. Most visitors fly in by chartered floatplane, usually from Fort Simpson, and charters also leave from Yellowknife, Muncho Lake (BC) and Watson Lake (YT); use an operator with a valid national park business licence. Virginia Falls is one of only two day-use landing sites in the park and the usual start of South Nahanni River trips.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is no road or parking at the falls. Fort Simpson is the usual charter base.
Elevation
560 metres above sea level
Coordinates
61.607821° N, -125.735176° W
Land Management
Managed by Parks Canada Agency Restricted Access
Visitor Tips & Gear
Book a licensed floatplane charter and, for overnight trips, a campground reservation well ahead. Camping at Náįlįcho is limited to two nights. Bring layers and rain gear for spray and changing weather, insect repellent, and bear-aware food storage; the site has food caches and composting toilets.
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This easy 2.6 km hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other highlights in Nahanni National Park Reserve include long stretches of the South Nahanni River (classic multi-day paddling/raft trips), the surrounding canyons, and nearby features such as the Rabbitkettle Hot Springs area (within the park). Fort Simpson serves as the primary gateway community for services and charters.
Wildlife
Moose, woodland caribou, black and possibly grizzly bears, wolves, Dall's sheep in some areas, and many bird species. As with all boreal/wilderness areas, encounters are possible, practice bear-aware and wildlife-safe behavior.
Other waterfalls named Virginia Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across Canada.
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