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Hike to Lower Falls in Golden Ears Provincial Park

Maple Ridge, British Columbia

5.0/5
based on 4 reviews

Details

Distance

3.5 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Sarah Vaughn

This is a relatively easy hike with stunning scenic views and a trip through an old growth forest. In warmer months, a great spot to swim and picnic.

Lower Falls is found within Golden Ears Provincial Park in British Columbia. Easily accessible from the Gold Creek Parking lot, it is a relatively flat trail snaking along Gold Creek itself. It can be done as an out & back trail, or you can make it a loop by using the connector trail located at Lower Falls which loops you in with the East Canyon Trail taking you back to the trailhead.

Due to the connector trail being extremely hard to find from the Lower Falls side as it is currently unmarked, I would recommend starting your hike with the East Canyon Trailhead. Starting here you have the option to hike down to Viewpoint Beach of the East Canyon trail before returning to take the Lower Falls connector trail towards the waterfall. The connector trail is quite scenic taking you deep into an old growth forest filled with ancient trees and roots. Soon you will be close to Lower Falls, and you will find yourself in a steep descent. For this reason sturdy hiking boots are recommended if taking the connector trail. At the bottom you will find yourself on top of Lower Falls. Here there is some area to explore and find yourself a good chill spot to take in the scenery. After, head down to the bottom of the falls where there are areas where you can swim, picnic, and scramble on the creek's many boulders. When you're ready to head back take the Lower Falls trail all the way to the parking lot. Along the way you will be exposed to gorgeous views of Gold Creek and the surrounding peaks.

If you need to satisfy that appetite after a day at the falls, visit Billy Miner Alehouse & Cafe (http://billyminer.ca) in nearby Maple Ridge. An old rustic pub set on the Fraser River and beside a railway, Billy Miner has a vast selection of local and imported craft beers you can enjoy as you "feel the rumble of the big train engines while eating your pub lunch!"

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Swimming
Hiking
Beach
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Forest
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Swimming Hole

Reviews

Powerful mist showers down when standing at the lookout

This hike is a great hike to do. I went when the waterfall was going nuts! Couldn't even take a picture because the spray was too intense. Walking through the amazing moss covered forest is pretty great too... so many great spots to set up a hammock and nap.

The hike to lower falls is an easy and beautiful hike. If you want more of a challenge. Hike to the upper falls. The trail starts at the lower falls wooden observation area. It climbs the ridge to the east bringing you to the top of the lower falls. from here follow the goat trail with pink flags to the upper falls. The trail is difficult requiring hand and foot holds. This is not a kid or dog friendly trail.

This is a great hike for people of all ages. I would say it's more of a walk since the trail is wide, well maintained and easy walking for people of all ages. Great way to spend a few hours with the family.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hiking Upper Gold Creek Falls

Hike Evans Peak in Golden Ears Provincial Park

Summit Golden Ears

Hike to Alder Flats in Golden Ears Provincial Park

Hike the East-West Canyon Loop

Camp in Golden Ears Provincial Park