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Summary

This Hidden Roaring Waterfall Is Just 1 Hour From Vancouver

Discovering this peaceful paradise was much needed. 🌲
Staff Writer

There is nothing like stepping outdoors to walk in nature to relax your body and clear your mind. But even if you can count the times you've gone hiking on one hand — you can still reach this roaring cascade. You won't even break a sweat getting to Steelhead Falls near Vancouver, so watery waiting for?

To begin, you'll need to drive to the Hayward Lake Recreation Area in Mission. It is one hour outside of the city.

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There are 16-kilometres of walking paths to explore within the park, but thankfully you don't need to travel that far. You'll follow the super-easy 1.8-kilometre trail that is so simple young children can do it.

Before you leave your home, make sure to look at your feet. If you are wearing shoes suitable to climb down a wooden staircase, you are ready to go.

The start of the path connects to the parking lot, and the entire route is well-marked, so it is impossible to get lost. 

Plus, you won't have to worry about tripping hazards, as most of the way is flat. You'll follow the gravel or raised boardwalk through the leafy forest towards the sounds of the water.

Along the way, you'll also get to cross two bridges over Brown and Steelhead Creek, that give a fantastic view of the rushing water. 

Once you've reached the wooden staircase, it is time to get excited as you are nearly there. All you need to do is climb down the steps that will take you to the upper and lower viewing platforms.

Both lookouts provide a spectacular view of the mighty falls pounding down on the rocks. 

Once you have had your fill of the peaceful hidden gem, all you need to do is retrace your steps back to your car.

Steelhead Falls

Price: Free

Address: Hayward Lake Reservoir Trail, Mission, BC

Why You Need To Go: It is just a quick drive away making it ideal for a free weekend adventure.

Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.

  • Stephanie White was an Ottawa-based Associate Editor for Narcity Canada. She has been writing mouthwatering food and wanderlust-inspiring articles for Canadians since 2012. She has a B.A. and B.Ed. from Ottawa University. When she isn't writing, you can find her travelling the globe and trying new restaurants. Stephanie has previously been published on Insider, Flight Network, Apartment Therapy, Faces Magazine, Daily Hive, Dished and The Spruce.

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