The best waterfall hikes and walks in Crippen Regional Park
4.8
(210)
2,537
hikers
14
hikes
Waterfall hiking trails in Crippen Regional Park are characterized by temperate rainforests, moss-draped trees, and diverse natural features. The park, located on Bowen Island, features Killarney Lake as a central point for many routes, alongside marshy areas and views of Howe Sound. Terrain varies from gentle lakeside paths to more challenging ascents, with elevations ranging from near sea level to over 1000 feet.
Best waterfall hiking trails in Crippen Regional Park
- The most popular waterfall hiking route is Killarney Lake…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.9
(33)
182
hikers
7.51km
02:01
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(8)
32
hikers
18.6km
06:34
770m
780m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.7
(6)
9
hikers
12.6km
03:54
360m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
3.33km
00:54
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
7
hikers
26.4km
09:16
1,090m
1,090m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
The north summit of Mount Gardner offers one of the clearest viewpoints on the mountain, with open rock slabs overlooking Howe Sound and the surrounding islands. Compared to other viewpoints, it feels more exposed and elevated, with fewer trees blocking the view. The result is a wide, uninterrupted lookout with breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and distant mainland mountains.
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From this scenic spot, you can soak in the view of Keats Island across Howe Sound, where the lush, forested island sits low in the water. This perspective is the perfect vantage point to see the layered inlets and smaller islets, creating a sense of depth rather than a wide panorama. On clear days, the contrast between the dark green shoreline and the sparkling water makes this one of the most impressive viewpoints on the mountain.
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Bridal Veil Falls is a short cascade where Killarney Lake empties into Mannion Bay. You will see a fish ladder nearby where salmon can swim upstream.
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Killarney Lake View Point has a boulderous beach and great views from he south end of the lake to the north end. Swimming is allowed here but not recommended as there have been reporting of leeches in the water.
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Killarney Lake can get a bit busy on the weekends, and for good reason, it's beautiful and accessible. Killarney Lake Loop Trail circles the entire lake, with plenty of viewpoints. Come early on the weekends in the summer for easier parking and less crowds.
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Peer through an opening in the trees to get a view of Killarney Lake. This area feels truly wild and is inhabited by both bears and cougars, so be aware while hiking.
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A nice place to rest after the small but nice climb.
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Not a real highlight, as it's in the middle of the forest and no view of Vancouver or the Pacific 😁
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are available in Crippen Regional Park?
Crippen Regional Park offers a diverse selection of 15 waterfall hiking trails. These routes cater to various fitness levels, including easy strolls, moderate hikes, and more challenging ascents.
Are there any easy waterfall hikes suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, there is one easy waterfall hike available. The Bridal Veil Falls loop from Bowen Island RCMP is an excellent option, covering 3.3 km and typically taking about an hour to complete. It leads directly to the notable Bridal Veil Falls.
What kind of terrain can I expect on waterfall hikes in Crippen Regional Park?
The terrain in Crippen Regional Park is quite varied, characterized by temperate rainforests with moss-draped trees and dense ferns. You'll find everything from gentle lakeside paths, such as those around Killarney Lake, to more challenging ascents with significant elevation gain, offering panoramic views of Howe Sound.
Are there any circular waterfall routes in the park?
Yes, many of the waterfall trails are circular. For instance, the popular Killarney Lake Loop Trail is a moderate 7.5 km circular route. Another option is the more challenging Killarney Lake – View of Howe Sound loop from Bowen Island RCMP, which is a 15.5 km loop.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see along the waterfall trails?
Beyond the waterfalls themselves, you can explore Killarney Lake, a tranquil body of water central to many routes. The park also features marshy areas with boardwalks, streams, and even beaver dams. For panoramic views, the Dorman Point trail (accessible from some park routes) offers stunning vistas of Howe Sound and surrounding mountains.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the waterfall trails in Crippen Regional Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 200 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the immersive temperate rainforest experience, the serene beauty of Killarney Lake, and the rewarding views of Howe Sound. The diversity of trails, from easy to difficult, is also a common highlight.
Is Crippen Regional Park accessible by public transport?
Yes, Crippen Regional Park is easily accessible. It's located on Bowen Island, which is just a 20-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay. The park's main entrance at Snug Cove is conveniently located near the ferry terminal, making it easy to start your hike upon arrival.
Are the waterfall trails in Crippen Regional Park dog-friendly?
Crippen Regional Park generally welcomes dogs, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations and ensure your dog is on a leash. Many trails, especially those around Killarney Lake, are popular for walking with canine companions, allowing them to enjoy the natural surroundings with you.
What is the best time of year to visit Crippen Regional Park for waterfall hikes?
Crippen Regional Park's temperate rainforest climate makes it enjoyable year-round. However, the falls are often most impressive during the wetter seasons (fall, winter, and spring) when water levels are higher. Autumn also offers the chance to observe salmon swimming upstream in the fish ladder near Bridal Veil Falls.
Are there any challenging waterfall hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, there are 8 difficult routes. An example is the View of Killarney Lake – View of Howe Sound loop from Bowen Island RCMP, a substantial 25.8 km trail with over 1000 meters of elevation gain, typically taking around 9 hours to complete.
Are there any amenities or cafes near the waterfall hiking trails?
The Snug Cove area, where the ferry terminal is located and many trails begin, offers various amenities. You'll find cafes and other services there, providing convenient options for refreshments or a meal before or after your hike.
Most popular routes in Crippen Regional Park
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