Shannon Falls

Most people stop by the Shannon Falls provincial park picnic area to catch a glimpse of the water pouring over the high cliffs above. What most don’t know is that you can climb up above the falls and get a first hand of what and where so much water does on its way to a 335 meter fall.

We decided to go for the free parking at the base of The Chief where most start their hike up the rocky wall. Half way up the Chief trail you cut off to the right and start the climb to the upper falls. The trail is much less used and has seen better days in sections but still is well enough marked to keep anybody going the right direction. Thinking it was going to be an easy hike, I was surprised at the amount of ups and downs and the workout it provided. Two hours after we started, and a few breaks along the way to shoot some video and take a couple of snaps, we arrived at the rushing water. It was a hot day, so the cool mist was refreshing to say the least and the power of the late spring runoff was still showing its strength. I filmed some choice shots and had a snack and then we continued up to the bluffs 15 minutes further to get a glimpse of the inlet and Squamish below.

The evening was getting near, so we made our way back down much quicker to be back in the car heading for Vancouver in just over an hour. Overall I think it was one of the more underestimated hikes I have been on but sure lived up to its part in the end. If you have done The Chief a few times, its well worth the change of pace and quiet it gives as few hike this trail.

Another hiked…