
Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Mamquam Falls
Nestled close to Squamish, British Columbia, lies the enchanting Mamquam Falls hiking trail. Though once a hidden gem, this moderate climb has gained popularity for its hidden waterfall. While not as imposing as nearby Shannon Falls, at 62 feet, Mamquam Falls exudes a serene charm amidst its tranquil surroundings.
Winding through the vibrant rainforest, this trail offers one of Squamish’s most visually captivating short treks. A delightful addition to any Sea to Sky Highway journey, the hike typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes to complete.
” Life is like a waterfall—always flowing“
For the best experience, I recommend starting your hike early in the day, as Mamquam Falls tends to get busier as the day progresses, although it remains a peaceful place compared to other spots in Squamish.
To reach Mamquam Falls from Vancouver, begin your journey by taking Highway 99 North (Sea-to-Sky Highway) towards Squamish. Pass by the Sea to Sky Gondola and continue for about 7.5 km (5 minutes) until you reach Mamquam River Forest Service Road. Be aware that this road may be challenging to navigate in a low-clearance vehicle.
Continue along the forest service road until you reach a crosswalk, then turn left into the parking lot. Look for a yellow BC Hydro fence on the left and a prominent parking lot on the right. The trailhead is located here, although it may not be clearly marked.
Please note that the condition of this road may deteriorate during the winter, and heavy snowfall could make it impassable. It’s advisable to check the road conditions before setting out. Parking at the trailhead is free, but remember to leave valuables at home.
The Mamquam Falls trailhead may have unclear signs, but there are two ways to complete the circular trail: clockwise or counterclockwise. From the parking lot, you’ll find two routes to the falls. The first option is to take the wide dirt trail at the top of the parking lot, which descends and leads to an area with picnic tables and an outhouse.
Alternatively, you can head straight to the right of the parking lot on the gated dirt road. Follow this until you reach a wide opening just before the bridge on your left. Both paths will lead you to the falls. If you’re only interested in seeing the falls and returning, this is the quicker route, although I highly recommend exploring the entire trail!
The hike to Mamquam Falls is short and straightforward, spanning only 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles), making it an excellent choice for beginners and families with young children. There is minimal elevation gain—roughly 50 meters (165 feet)—resulting in a moderate hike that most people can complete without excessive physical exertion.
In terms of difficulty, the Mamquam Falls trail is rated as easy. The path is well-marked and not technically challenging, although there are a few rocky sections that may require careful footing, particularly after rainfall. As always, it’s advisable to wear sturdy hiking shoes and pack essentials such as water and snacks.
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