Widgeon Falls
British Columbia • Pinecone Burke Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
6.0 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
136 m
About Widgeon Falls
Widgeon Falls is a small-to-moderate cascade located in coastal British Columbia near the Canada–US border (coordinates: 49.3988, -122.6374). Public information about this specific named feature is limited; visitors report it is reached by forest or service roads and a short hike in mixed forest. Flow and appearance vary seasonally, with higher flows in spring and after heavy rain. Confirm route and access locally before visiting.
The Setting
Widgeon Falls sits at 74 metres within Pinecone Burke Park, in the coastal lowlands of British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Widgeon Falls flows over hard intrusive rock laid down about 145-162 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.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 6.0-km out-and-back trail gains 136 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Route information is sparse and route-finding may be required. Visitors typically follow a forest or service road to a trailhead or informal parking area, then hike on a single-track or unmarked path through coastal forest to reach the creek and falls. Trails may be muddy, narrow, and steep in places; expect limited signage. Because conditions and access routes can change, consult recent trip reports or local land managers before attempting the visit.
What to Expect
Expect a forested approach with wet, mossy terrain near the creek. The waterfall is likely a multi-tiered cascade or small plunge rather than a very tall, sheer drop. Seasonal flow varies, highest in spring and after rain, lower in late summer. Rocks and logs around the falls can be slippery; there may be no formal viewpoints, handrails, or maintained facilities.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Widgeon Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Widgeon Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer for higher flows and more dramatic water; summer and fall for drier, easier trail conditions. Avoid visiting after heavy rain if you are not prepared for slippery, potentially hazardous terrain.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Pinecone Burke Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards may include slippery rocks, steep or unstable banks, fallen trees, variable water flows, seasonal high water and flashiness after heavy rain, and limited signage or maintained trails. Some access routes may cross private land or gated forestry roads, do not trespass. Cell coverage may be unreliable; carry navigation aids and tell someone your plans. Always wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution near cliff edges and the water.
Current Water Conditions
0.3 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 16 years of record
3.25 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
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 lie in southern coastal British Columbia near the international border (approximately 20–30 miles north of Blaine/Birch Bay, WA). Exact vehicle access often uses local secondary or forest roads; some approaches may require driving on gravel or gated logging roads and hiking the final section. Use the coordinates (49.3988, -122.6374) with a reliable mapping app, consult local government/park maps, and check for private property or locked gates. Expect to approach from the nearest major roads and then follow smaller access roads or trails.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking details are not well documented. There may be informal pullouts or a small trailhead parking area near the access road; in many cases parking is limited and unofficial. Do not block gates or private driveways. If access uses a forest/industrial road, park only in designated pullouts or at an established trailhead.
Elevation
74 metres above sea level
Coordinates
49.398835° N, -122.637417° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Check recent trip reports, local hiking resources (e.g., AllTrails, local parks/forest service) and maps before you go. 2) Respect posted signs and private property boundaries; some approaches may cross private land. 3) Wear waterproof footwear and bring traction for steep/wet sections. 4) Park considerately, avoid blocking gates or driveways. 5) Cell service may be limited; bring a map and tell someone your plans.
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This easy 6.0 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.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
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
Widgeon Creek Campsite
2.6 km away
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Nearby Attractions
The falls are located in the border region of southwestern British Columbia. Within a roughly 20–40 mile radius you will find regional parks, coastal beaches, and cross-border attractions (for example, Boundary Bay/Delta and parks near the Canada–US border). Distances and access vary; consult local maps for nearby parks and trail systems.
Wildlife
Typical coastal-British-Columbia wildlife: black bears, deer, raccoons, small mammals, a variety of birds, and abundant mosquitoes in warmer months. Be bear-aware (store food properly) and practice standard wildlife-safety measures.
Cities near Widgeon Falls
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