Water Falls
Alberta • Banff National Park • 50 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.6 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
75 m
About Water Falls
A mountain creek waterfall situated in the Banff/Lake Louise region of Alberta (coordinates: 51.2732, -115.9085). The waterfall sits on a subalpine/foothills stream and is reached via trails in the Banff National Park area. Flow is typically highest in spring and early summer from snowmelt; flows are lower late summer and the falls may be partially or fully frozen in winter. Specific local name, exact height, and official signage appear to be uncertain from available sources.
The Setting
Water Falls sits at 1,528 metres within Banff National Park, in the high mountains of Alberta. At 50 metres, it is among the taller waterfalls in Alberta.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Water 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 165-foot drop that forms the waterfall.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Upper Falls (30 m) lies 5.5 kilometres to the east. Also nearby: Lower Falls (9 m, 5.3 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.6-km out-and-back trail gains 75 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The approach is likely a natural single-track trail through montane and subalpine forest with typical Rocky Mountain terrain: roots, rocks and occasional steep or muddy sections. Expect creekside walking near the lower sections and steeper or rocky viewpoints near the falls. Trails in this region can be narrow with limited handrails. In winter the route may be snow- or ice-covered and require traction devices or snowshoes. Specific mileages, turn-by-turn directions and trailhead names were not confirmed.
What to Expect
The falls plunge 50 metres over layered sedimentary rock.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Water Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Water Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring and early summer (May–June) for highest flows from snowmelt; early fall for fall colors and lower crowds. Winter offers frozen/icefall views but is colder, and conditions can be hazardous (ice, avalanches, unstable snow).
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Banff National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Primary hazards include slippery and unstable rocks at vantage points, fast or cold water, sudden weather changes, hypothermia in cold conditions, avalanches or unstable snow in winter, limited cell coverage, and wildlife encounters. Use caution near cliff edges, do not attempt to climb wet rock near the falls, and wear appropriate footwear. Check current trail conditions and avalanche advisories in winter.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 25.7 km away
32.4 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 54 years of record
1.25 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
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
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
Located roughly 19–20 miles from both Lake Louise and Banff (user-supplied distances). Access is via the Banff National Park road and trail network, expect to travel on paved highways to a nearby pullout or small trailhead and then on an unpaved hiking trail to the falls. Exact trailhead name was not confirmed; use a current park map, trail app (AllTrails), or Parks Canada resources before travel.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is typically limited at trailheads and may be a small pullout or designated lot. In Banff National Park, parking areas may require a Parks Canada day or annual pass and can fill early in peak season.
Elevation
1,528 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.273224° N, -115.908502° W
Land Management
Managed by Parks Canada Agency
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Carry a Parks Canada pass for vehicle entry; check current fees and requirements. • Check recent trail and weather reports (AllTrails, Parks Canada, local trail groups) before you go. • Wear sturdy footwear with good traction, rocks and viewpoints can be slippery. • Bring bear spray and know how to use it; make noise on the trail. • Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace. • Allow extra time in winter for slower travel due to snow/ice. • Do not rely on informal social-media directions; use an official map or trail app for navigation.
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This easy 1.6 km hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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
(Closed) Castle Mountain Campground
0.6 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Bow River viewpoints, nearby alpine lakes and hiking trails in the Lake Louise/Banff corridor. Exact proximity to named attractions depends on precise trailhead location.
Wildlife
Black bear and grizzly bear, elk, deer, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, small mammals and various birds. Carry bear spray and be bear-aware; keep food stored and do not approach wildlife.
Cities near Water Falls
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