...

Mamquam Falls – Squamish

Home » Mamquam Falls – Squamish

Mamquam Falls – Everything YOU need to know

ONELIFE

Mamquam Falls, a scenic waterfall hidden near Squamish, British Columbia, offers a picturesque retreat into nature. The short and easy 1.6km (45-minute) hike leads you along the Mamquam River through lush rainforest, culminating in remarkable views of the waterfall. The spectacular 62 feet high cascade showcases some of the most beautiful emerald green iridescent water on the West Coast.

As one of the most rewarding short hikes in the area, Mamquam Falls holds a special place for many, yet it remains pleasantly uncrowded. Local residents particularly cherish this spot for its accessibility and natural beauty. Spanning a mere 30-45 minutes, the trail provides an easy journey through lush rainforest, meandering alongside flowing streams. Amidst this verdant scenery, an abundance of wildlife, including snakes, birds, and smaller creatures hidden among the leaves, adds to the enchanting experience.

For the best esims on the internet use Airalo – click on the link below and use Code FEB15 if you are a new user for 15% off or FEB 10 for 10% if you are an existing customer

Airalo

YouTube Video of Mamquam Falls

Mamquam Falls – Navigate our page below

Looking for a different destination? Head to Explore The World to find your next destination!

Mamquam Falls Statistics

Difficulty Rating – Easy

Distance – 1.6 km

Net Elevation Change – 60m

Time Needed – 45 minutes – 1 Hour

Season – All Year

Dog Friendly – (YES) Dogs are allowed with leash

Est. Driving Time from Vancouver – 1.5 hours

Map of Mamquam Falls

Located 18 minutes from the town of Squamish

The 1.6km round loop trail starting from the carpark

How to get to Mamquam Falls

Walking/Biking, Driving, Public Transport

Given that Mamquam Falls is a 20-30 minute drive on an unpaved road, the most popular mode of transportation is by car. However, for those without access to a car, alternative transportation options are available to access the trail.

One such option is exploring shared transportation services, such as carpooling with fellow hikers or utilizing rideshare platforms if available in the area. Additionally, public transportation or organized group tours may offer transportation solutions for those seeking an alternative to private vehicles.

It’s recommended to check local transportation options and consider coordinating with other hikers or tour services to make the trail accessible to a broader range of visitors.

Driving (car) –

Situated just outside the city of Squamish, Mamquam Falls is easily accessible by taking Highway 99 North, also known as the Sea-to-Sky Highway. As you embark on your journey, travel approximately 7.5 km (about 5 minutes) past the Sea to Sky Gondola. Here, make a right turn onto the Mamquam River Forest Service Road. It’s essential to be aware that this road is unpaved, and it may present challenges for vehicles with low clearance.

Proceed for 3.7 km and make a left at the initial significant intersection. Continue along the service road for an additional 1.7 km. Eventually, you’ll encounter a prominent yellow BC hydro gate with a parking area situated to the left of it. This is the parking and start of the trail.

Turn left here (first intersection)

Important to mention, this road is not maintained during the winter and might be impassable after recent heavy snowfall. It is advisable to check local road conditions before embarking on your journey. Parking at the trailhead is free, and it’s advisable to leave all valuables at home.

Walking/ Biking –

It is possible to walk from anywhere in Squamish to the start of Mamquam Falls Trail, it will however add 1.5 hours (6.5km) to your total time and distance. Below is a screen shot of the path to take to get to Mamquam falls by foot, follow the below instructions. You can also do this with a bike, however due to the nature of the unpaved, gravel trails. It is recommended a mountain bike or something suited to that type of terrain is used, along with a helmet.

  1. Make your way to Westway Avenue and follow this road until you reach Cherry Drive.
  2. On the corner of Westway Avenue & Cherry Drive you will follow the signs into the bush.
  3. You will walk roughly 100m before coming to an intersection where you will turn right.
  4. After another 100m you will follow the path left and follow this path until you reach Powerhouse Spring Road.
  5. Once on this road you will follow the same directions as if in a car as mentioned above.
  6. Follow road until first intersection, turn left at intersection and follow road
  7. After around 1.7km you will encounter a yellow BC Hydro gate, this is where the trail starts.

Public Transport –

There is no public transport to Mamquam Falls. You can bus to a closer start point and walk to the destination, however no public transport will take you directly to the begining of the trail if heading there from Squamish. There is busses or other modes of public transport which can take you from Vancouver to Squamish or Whistler to Squamish but once there you will have to walk.

Best Things to do at Mamquam Falls

Hiking

Locals and tourists frequently utilize Mamquam Falls for a serene stroll through lush rainforest, offering breathtaking views of a stunning 62-foot waterfall. The trail it self is narrow and not designed for bikers. The best thing to do when visiting Mamquam falls is to simply enjoy the walk and views that the trail offers. This is because its short distance and little elevation, this trail is popular for all as it is accessible for all levels of hiking ability.

Camping

Camping isn’t permitted around the falls, but there’s ample opportunity for dispersed camping along the forest service road.

Kayaking

Originating high in the alpine region, the Mamquam River stems from the Mamquam glacier ice field, situated above the Squamish community. The glacier feeds into Skookum Creek, Ring Creek, and Mashiter Creek.

Though you may not personally partake in white water kayaking, you can certainly understand its appeal. Just a few meters downstream from the lookout, there’s a pleasant sandy area where you, as a kayaker, can access the river, going beyond the falls.

Warning signs are in place, emphasizing the need for extreme caution, especially during spring when the river can flow vigorously due to the glacial melt. The water, opaque in nature, hides numerous large boulders scattered throughout the river.

Cliff Jumping

Though cliff jumping is not permitted nor advised at Mamquam Falls. However, with lots of locals visiting the spot regularly to find a rush of adrenaline jumping into the opaque green waters. If you do seek to follow in their footsteps, make sure you are not alone are aware of what lies beneath the water. Have a spotter and know what you are doing.

The Hike

You can complete the trail in around 30-45 minutes, depending on how often you stop to take in the views. The trail covers a distance of 1.6 km with only 60 m in elevation, making it achievable regardless of your fitness level.

The trailhead for Mamquam Falls lacks clear signage and forms a loop that can be traversed either clockwise or counter-clockwise. Two paths lead to the falls from the parking lot. The first option is located at the top of the parking lot, where a broad dirt trail descends, leading to an area with picnic benches and an outhouse.

The second option involves walking down the gated dirt road to the right of the parking lot. Continue until you spot a wide opening on your left, just before the bridge. As you approach, two different trails will become visible, both leading to the falls. If your goal is to see the falls quickly and return, opt for this route, though I recommend experiencing the entire trail.

For the best trail experience, take the first entry option located at the parking lot.

The Mamquam Falls hike presents a relatively short and easy trek, measuring approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) in length, making it an excellent choice for beginners and families with children. With a modest elevation gain of around 50 meters (165 feet), the hike offers a leisurely experience that most individuals can accomplish without feeling overly exerted.

Despite its brevity, the trail showcases diverse landscapes, ranging from vibrant green forests to the rocky riverbed. Following the course along the Mamquam River, hikers traverse a moss-drenched rainforest before reaching the captivating Mamquam Falls. The turquoise hue of the Mamquam River never fails to captivate.

In terms of difficulty, the Mamquam Falls trail is rated as easy. The path is well-marked and not technically challenging. However, a few rocky areas may require careful footing, particularly after rainfall. As always, it’s advisable to wear sturdy hiking shoes and pack essentials like water and snacks.

When you get to this gate above, you will want to take the path that looks more like a road (right). From here it is a simple walk down to the river where there is an outhouse (toilet). You will then make your way upstream following the sound of rushing water on your left until you eventually reach the viewpoint of the falls.

After soaking in the beautiful views, take the trail up to the right which is the most elevated section of the trail. This will guide you to the road and the bridge. But, to get back to the carpark and where you first started the trail, you will follow the road away from the bridge until you come across a gate and the carpark.

Facilities at Mamquam Falls

The Carpark

The carpark for the Mamquam Falls trail is simply a cleared out section of gravel road with a capacity of around 10-15 cars.

Toilets

There are no toiletry facilities at the beginning of the trail, there is however one outhouse in the middle of the trail along with 1 or 2 picnic tables near the river.

The Road

The road conditions are not maintained enough during the summer to make for easy travel for off-road vehicles, and if you do not have an off-road vehicle you can still access the trail however it will require concentrated driving. We drove up in a 2005 Ford Escape with no trouble. During winter, the road is less well-maintained, and heavy snowfall may lead to road blockages, rendering the trail inaccessible.

Bear Safety

It’s crucial to prioritize safety when in bear country, and Whistler, with its beautiful natural surroundings, is no exception. Here are some general bear safety procedures to keep in mind:

  1. Carry Bear Spray:
    • Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make sure it’s easily accessible, preferably on your belt or backpack.
  2. Stay Alert:
    • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking or walking in wooded areas. Bears can be quiet, and surprise encounters can be dangerous.
  3. Make Noise:
    • Make noise while hiking to alert bears to your presence. Clap your hands, talk loudly, or sing. This can help prevent surprising a bear.
  4. Travel in Groups:
    • Traveling in groups is safer than going alone. Bears are less likely to approach larger groups.
  5. Secure Food and Garbage:
    • Properly store food and garbage in bear-resistant containers or bear lockers. Bears have an excellent sense of smell and are attracted to food odors.
  6. Respect Closures:
    • Follow any trail or area closures that are in place due to bear activity. These closures are there to protect both humans and bears.
  7. Do Not Feed Bears:
    • Never feed bears intentionally or leave food out for them. Bears that associate humans with food can become dangerous and may need to be euthanized.
  8. Back Away Slowly:
    • If you encounter a bear, back away slowly and avoid direct eye contact. Speak in a calm, assertive voice.
  9. Stay Calm:
    • In the rare event of a charge, stand your ground. Do not run. Running can trigger a chase response.
  10. Know How to Differentiate Grizzly and Black Bears:
    • Understand the differences between grizzly and black bears and how to respond differently to each species. Grizzly bears may respond differently to certain actions.
  11. Educate Yourself:
    • Learn about bear behavior and habits. Knowing how bears typically behave can help you avoid risky situations.

If there have been multiple grizzly sightings in the area, it’s even more crucial to be vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines. Local authorities and wildlife agencies often provide information and updates on bear activity, so it’s advisable to stay informed about the current situation in the area. Always prioritize safety and respect the natural habitat of these magnificent but powerful animals.

Click here – Bear Safety – for more information. And Click here – Black Bear or Grizzly Bear? -for information on a Black bear vs a Grizzly Bear.

Historical Information & Development

Mamquam Falls is presumed to be the largest waterfall along the Mamquam River. Cascading dramatically, the falls drop a sheer 19 meters (62 feet) into a cliff-ringed bowl at the end of an impressive gorge. Adjacent to the bottom of the falls is a power house, and directly above, there’s a concrete bridge. Due to the river’s regulation in a hydroelectric system, the falls no longer boast their natural grandeur. However, during periods of prolonged rain in the winter months, the river’s volume may swell close to its natural state.

Just downstream from the falls, a small, possibly seasonal stream sprays into the river from the north over a small cascading waterfall. Seen alongside Mamquam Falls from the viewpoint on the south side of the river.

The Mamquam River drains from a vast area covering approximately 280 square kilometers (110 square miles). The majority of the river’s volume comes from the melt of the Bishop Glacier on the east flank of Mount Garibaldi and the Mamquam Icefield located just to the east and across the valley. Although the river naturally flows with heavy volume year-round, a hydroelectric system captures most of the river at a dam about 3.7 km upstream from the falls and then returns it to the river just downstream. It appears that there is a minimum volume of water allowed over the falls at all times (the exact amount is unknown). However, due to the wet climate in southern British Columbia, the river rarely reaches that level for an extended period.

The future development at Mamquam Falls

It’s exciting to learn about the eco-tourism project planned for the vicinity of Mamquam Falls in Squamish. The initial phase of development is set to feature the construction of an 800-meter elevated boardwalk, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the surrounding natural beauty. Additionally, a 200-meter canyon walkway near Mamquam Falls will offer an immersive experience.

As the project progresses into subsequent phases, two bridges over the canyon will be introduced, enhancing accessibility and further connecting visitors with the stunning landscape. Additional elevated boardwalks and lookout platforms are also on the agenda, promising an even more enriching experience for those exploring the area. These developments not only aim to showcase the natural wonders but also contribute to sustainable and responsible tourism in the region.

As of now, there’s no information about the closure period for construction. If you wish to explore the area before these developments take place, it’s recommended to visit soon.

FAQ

Is the Hike free?

Yes! The hike is located on public lands at the end of a forest service road. Free all year round.

Dog friendly?

Dogs can accompany you on the trail. It’s important to consider a couple of things: the river flows swiftly, posing a risk even if your dog is a strong swimmer. Therefore, it’s best to avoid letting your dog swim in the river. Additionally, since Squamish is known as bear country, it’s crucial to keep dogs on a leash.

Can you camp?

There is no campground specifically designated for the Mamquam Falls hike, and there are no allocated campsites along the forest service road. Nevertheless, there are pullouts where individuals occasionally engage in overnight camping in their vehicles. While these roads may be patrolled at times, it is generally considered safe to stay for one or two nights.

Is there running water?

There are no running water or potable water stations in the vicinity of the Mamquam Falls hiking area. Despite the hike being relatively short, it’s crucial to remember to bring your own water. While using a water filtration device to consume river water is an option, it’s advisable to bring your own bottles for convenience and safety.

Is there bathrooms?

Yes! There is 1 outhouse half way along the trail.

How long is the Hike?

The hike, or some might say, walk, is incredibly short and easy, taking approximately 35 minutes round trip. Covering less than a mile (1.5 km) with only a 60-meter elevation gain, it offers a pleasant stroll through the forest.

Best time to do the hike?

Anytime! This hike offers a great experience year-round, but personally, I find it most enjoyable during the summer or fall.