Shannon Falls in British Columbia is truly breathtaking in autumn—it can honestly leave you speechless. The waterfall drops more than 300 meters down a granite cliff, and the mist sparkles beautifully in the sunlight. I originally thought “Shannon Falls” was just a pleasant-sounding name, but walking through the forest, I was completely surrounded by a distinct natural fragrance. It’s a very unique scent: cedar and fir mixed with the moisture of the waterfall, along with a subtle sweetness from the moss. The name is said to come from a 19th-century settler, William Shannon, but I prefer to believe it was chosen by nature itself, because “Shannon” already sounds like an adjective that perfectly describes this place. If you’re planning a visit, around 3 p.m. is ideal when the light is soft and warm. Standing at the viewpoint, a breeze passes by and the mist gently hits your face—it’s an experience of pure enjoyment.
Shannon Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Shannon Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Shannon Falls famous?
Shannon Falls is the third-highest waterfall in British Columbia at 335 meters (1,105 feet), making it a must-see stop on the scenic Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler. The falls are named after William Shannon, a brickmaker who homesteaded nearby in the 1890s, and the site holds cultural significance for the Squamish Nation.
Can you swim at Shannon Falls?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Shannon Falls; it is a viewing waterfall with viewing platforms for safe observation. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Shannon Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash on the trails and viewing areas. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Shannon Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free. No entry fee or permit required to visit Shannon Falls Provincial Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Shannon Falls?
There is a large free parking lot directly off the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99). The lot can fill quickly on summer weekends and holidays. The viewing platforms are a short 5-minute walk from the parking area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Shannon Falls?
About 400 meters / 0.25 miles return from the parking lot to the main viewing platform via a paved pathway. An optional additional trail loops higher for alternate views. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Shannon Falls hike difficulty
Easy — paved, wheelchair-accessible pathway to the main viewing platform with minimal elevation gain. Some stairs on optional upper viewpoint trail. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Shannon Falls?
Spring and early summer (May–July) for peak flow from snowmelt, making the falls most dramatic. Falls flow year-round but are less impressive in late summer/fall. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Shannon Falls
From the parking lot, follow the clearly marked paved trail through the forest toward the sound of the falls. The path leads to a large wooden viewing platform at the base of the falls. For additional views, take the rougher trail that branches left and climbs via stairs to upper viewpoints along the cliff face.
Shannon Falls official website
Attractions near Shannon Falls
- •Sea to Sky Gondola — aerial tramway with mountain views and hiking trails, 2 km south
- •Stawamus Chief Provincial Park — iconic granite monolith with challenging hiking trails
- •Britannia Mine Museum — historic copper mine museum about 10 km south on Sea to Sky Highway
- •Squamish downtown — outdoor recreation hub with rock climbing, mountain biking, and dining
- •Brandywine Falls Provincial Park — 70-meter waterfall about 40 km north near Whistler
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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