Cypress Falls Hiking Trail, West Vancouver, BC

Susan C from Burnaby writes:

This was a very nice hike. (we are not experienced hikers)
Thanks to Alexandria for the map, it really helped.
We headed up on the east side of the river and down on the west side. The trails on the east side of the river were easy to follow and easily led us to the service road. This road led us to the upper falls and the trail was little steep but worth it. Interestingly there is an old car stuck in the trees on the east side of the upper falls. A couple told us that it was from a car accident in the 1960's. The trails on the west side of the river were harder to follow but its ok because you can orientate yourself with the river and there didn't feel any threat of getting lost (just head down!).
The trees and moss are amazing! Both waterfalls were great too.
We really enjoyed the hike.

Posted: August 1, 2011 10:10:50 AM PST

Chuck from Vancouver writes:

We did this hike on Victoria Day. I would agree the trail isn't particularly well marked but there always seems to be a path to follow which is somewhat obvious. While there are other paths it seems they always re-join. Keep river right to get to the falls and you won't have any trouble finding them.

For a better view of the falls continue on to the service road and then head down the trail marked by the BC Hydro Blue poles. It is a little steeper and a little slick because of the mist from the falls but worth the view.

The hike really is quite short so we continued up the service road to the reservoir. You can't actually see it but there are some nice views. The road/path splits at one point where the TransCanada trail crosses. You can take either as they'll re-join a short distance later.

Posted: May 27, 2011 09:28:25 PM PST

Walley from Richmond writes:

There are some great views past the fence of the second set of falls just before the service road bridge. There is a tighter and steeper trail heading down towards a bit of a ledge with a great viewpoint of the second falls that is just off to your right after the fence (be cautious). There is a pole there as a marker as well. To get to the fence there is a very obvious main trail you can follow fairly easily. Either way if you follow the river upstream, keeping it to your right, it is very easy to get to the fence.

The right side of the falls contains less obvious trails and more difficult terrain and you will have to cross at some point so unless you are okay with getting a little wet and adventurous stick to the left.

Posted: May 21, 2011 12:09:18 PM PST

Shark from Vancouver writes:

Did the hike yesterday with a group of friends. We'd agree with the other posters that the trail is not easily marked.
However, with a little intuition you can still find your way around, and there are numerous other trails that will lead you through some amazing forest scenery. A plus for the more adventurous hikers are a few rope-assisted descents to the riverbed. Had a great time overall.

Posted: April 4, 2011 10:19:36 AM PST

Alexandria from Vancouver writes:

After some digging, this is a great map since the trail is not marked for the most part: http://www.findfamilyfun.com/cypressfalls.gif

Posted: January 24, 2011 09:46:04 PM PST

Alexandria from Vancouver writes:

I agree with the frequent sentiment of the trail not being well (safely!) labeled. Which organization is responsible for providing markers/blazes/tape...oh, just anything please?

Posted: January 24, 2011 09:02:24 PM PST

Carly from Vancouver writes:

My husband and I went on this hike this afternoon with out 6month old berner puppy. If you are looking for a trail or a path to hike, you will end up frustrated. In many places the trail seems to split into 3 or 4 possible directions, some of which just die off. We both hike in the backcountry and thus like trails that aren't over maintained but this was confusing. We disliked doubling back to choose the next, hopefully longer, adventure. This trail could benefit from either a map or pamphlet at the trailhead or a few small signs or markers along the way.

That said, the noise and view of the first falls is quite awesome. The second falls was a bit difficult to find, less water but a full view, worth the wandering. Overall, this was a great place to visit, explore and simply walk around in. With altered expectations we would definitely go back.

Posted: December 10, 2010 06:13:47 PM PST

annie boudreau from tracadie NB writes:

very nice hike!! the 2 second waterfall is amazing!

Posted: August 20, 2009 09:41:36 PM PST

Colin from North Vancouver writes:

Just did this early this morning. Wonderful hike, to get to the second falls after the bridge, stick close to the right hand side to get to the fence. It's a really nice hike a little challenging for those used to simple trails. It's cool near the water so be sure to wear layers :)

Posted: May 2, 2009 04:52:54 PM PST

Jason from North Vancouver writes:

A short hike but lovely, mossy forest hike in West Van. The first waterfall was only 5 minutes from the parking lot but the 2nd one was quite far up and we ended up loosing track of where the trail was several times. If you get to a fence, you've gone the right way and it's only a short hike beyond the fence.

Tried to find a view of the water from the other side of the bridge but didn't have any luck.

Posted: April 4, 2009 06:58:35 PM PST

Julie Smithson from North Vancouver writes:

The trees and the moss that covers them are so amazing. We are so fortunate to live near areas like Cypress Falls where trees grow big and healthy in their natural environment.

A short and easy hike but very scenic. A perfect weekend morning hike so you have the rest of the day free.

Posted: April 7, 2008 10:00:34 AM PST