|Wanderung| Newsletter - Waterfall hikes (ZT)

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Waterfall hikes
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by Andy G.

This time of year is the best time to see the full power of waterfalls, as the
longer days and warmer temperatures increase the melting of the snowpack. The
Lower Mainland has a superb selection of hikes where waterfalls can either be
seen along the way or make a fine destination in themselves. Here are a few of
my favourite waterfall hikes:

- Norvan Falls: a great early-season warm-up hike. Though the falls are not as
spectacular as some of the others, they are close to home.
- Brothers Creek: in addition to big trees, this under-rated hike takes in a
gorgeous twin-cascade along the way with another viewable from the lower bridge
on the Baden-Powell trail.
- Upper Shannon Falls, The Chief, and Slhaney (previously known as the Squaw)
all take in the spectacular Shannon Falls which are roaring at the moment. The
Upper Shannon Falls trail now extends to the Sea-to-Sky Gondola station for an
extra workout and better views. Take your photos at the end of the hike when the
falls are in sunshine.
- High Falls Creek: get a free rainbow on a sunny day, plus superb views of the
Squamish River valley on the descent.
- East/West Canyon Trails: the lower falls on Gold Creek are an easy hike in
Golden Ears park, accessible from either side of the river. The East Canyon
trail allows you to feel the spray, but taking the West Canyon (Alder Flats)
trails allows you to get down by the river for a sunnier view. Take care on the
rocks - they can be slippery!
- Sigurd Creek: a tough hike, but Crooked Falls is easily accessible along the
first half of the trail before the steepest part of the climb. I visited these
falls at the weekend and they were *awesome*!

It should go without saying that spectacular waterfalls occur when creeks are
running high, so please take care near the water. In addition, many of these
waterfalls are in deep canyons with precipitous drop-offs so it is vital to take
the utmost precautions in their vicinity.