Top 10 Waterfalls In Canada: Majestic Landscapes & Wild Beauty

A picture of a Canadian waterfall gives a glimpse of the beauty of these water bodies.

Canada is known for its diverse natural beauty and expansive landscapes. The country boasts majestic mountains, pristine lakes, dense forests, expansive coastlines, and particularly stunning waterfalls. Niagara Falls is the most common name when it comes to breathtaking waterfalls in Canada. Starting from here, there is a long list of visually stunning waterfalls that follow. They tumble down with power, and their roar somehow brings a calm silence to the spectators. Perfect family spots for local people as well as tourists; they are a poetic inspiration for solo travellers too.

Top 10 Waterfalls In Canada

The sheer scale and rainbow vibes of Canadian waterfalls make them hidden gems in peaceful forests. Here are the best of them:

1. Niagara Falls

A picture with a gorgeous view of the Niagara Falls as seen from Skylon Tower.

Photo: Nandaro / Wikimedia Commons

Niagara Falls, also known as the Canadian Falls, consists of two American and one Canadian falls. Of these three waterfalls, the Horseshoe Falls is the largest. It is the one predominantly located on the Canadian side of the Niagara River. Of the waterfalls in Canada Niagara is truly powerful and momentous. It offers an inspiring walk along the white water. One can take in breathtaking aerial views from the Skylon Tower or enjoy a helicopter tour. One can also take a boat ride which provides views of the falls from both below and behind. Adventurers can also zip-line, boat, hike, and cycle here.

Location: Niagara, Ontario

2. Montmorency Falls

A view displaying the thunderous beauty of the white waters of Montmorency Falls.

Photo: Wilfredo Rafael Rodriguez Hernandez / Wikimedia Commons

The Montmorency Falls, which are situated in a park of the same name, are a must-see on this list. Through a combination of mist and sunlight, it brings spectacular rainbow views for visitors. Its seasonal drama includes the spring’s snow-melting and the winter’s ice sculptures. Moreover, you can choose between adventure and amazement while you are there. To see the falls from a different angle, you can ride a cable car to the top of the cliff. Also, the Montmorency Manor serves one of the best brunches in the area, which is sure to please tourists.

Location: Quebec City, Quebec

3. Athabasca Falls

The striking beauty of the free-falling Athabasca Falls amidst the surrounding lush greens

Photo: Migueldalugdugan / Wikimedia Commons

One of the top locations on the Icefields Parkway is Athabasca Falls. The waterfalls sound unique with the roaring waters and the echoing canyon. Ascending to the falls, you may see the breathtaking valley with whirlpools and eddies formed by the Athabasca River as it cuts through the limestone. The volume and rush of water passing through a narrow canyon is high. It is surrounded by the stunning rocky mountains, and has views of Mount Kerkeslin in the backdrop. Walkways let you watch the action without getting into the waterfall. Short trails are a great platform for photography, where you can capture the mist, rainbows, rugged canyons and more.

Location: Jasper National Park, Alberta

4. Helmcken Falls

The Helmcken Falls in the snow-covered Wells Gray Provincial Park; a winter view

Photo: Alan D. Wilson / Wikimedia Commons

Helmcken Falls, a showstopper, is one of Canada’s most jaw-dropping natural sights. It plunges straight down into a deep canyon. It is in the Provincial Park which was primarily established to preserve these breathtaking falls. This Wells Gray Provincial Park is known as the “Waterfall Park” as it has many other waterfalls too. The Helmcken waterfall plunges into a gouged chasm below after dropping a massive 141 meters. The moving water against the still rock is a beautiful combination of motion and stillness. If you visit outside peak hours when there are fewer crowds, you will have a more Zen experience.

Location: Wells Gray Provincial Park, British Columbia

5. Takakkaw Falls

The awesome Takakkaw Falls viewed from its base, amidst gigantic mountains

Photo: Deror_avi / Wikimedia Commons

At an astounding 384 meters, this waterfall is the second-highest in Canada. The name, which is translated from Cree, means “the magnificent,” and it is a suitable one. The ideal time to witness Takakkaw Falls at their whitest and gushiest is in the spring when the glaciers melt. Like other waterfalls in Canada, it is surrounded by pristine nature, untouched mountains, forests, and wildlife. It is visually beautiful and audibly impactful. The Takakkaw Falls is great for a brief trek up to the foot of the falls, where visitors can have a close-up look at the tumbling water.

Location: Yoho National Park, British Columbia

6. Bridal Veil Falls

A picture of the water elegantly cascading at the Bridal Veil Falls forming lacy sheets.

Photo: The High Fin Sperm Whale / Wikimedia Commons

Bridal Veil Falls in Canada is an enchanting, tranquil waterfall that fits its romantic name perfectly. The water forms beautifully as it flows in thin, lacy sheets over smooth rocks thus giving it a soft look. These delicate rivulets of water tumbling down evenly give the waterfall a unique and special look. Unlike many other falls, this one is more graceful and elegant, instead of bold and thunderous. The natural frames offered by the surrounding lush green scenery, look like paintings come to life. For families and casual hikers, this waterfall is best as it is easy to reach.

Location: Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park, British Columbia

7. Shannon Falls

A view of the water of the tall Shannon Falls plunging beautifully and defining its beauty.

Photo: FlickrLickr / Wikimedia Commons

The Shannon Falls cascade over a sequence of granite cliffs. These towering falls plunge into Howe Sound. The waterfall is a short 200-meter walk from the parking lot. It has a misty vibe on sunny days and often offers rainbow views. With the sunlight hitting the cliffs, this is a photographer’s dream. For outdoor lovers, rock climbing and nature-watching opportunities nearby are bonuses. The park is home to these falls and has a picnic area, a BC Parks kiosk and a short, easy hike to the base of the falls. A total gem set amidst lush greens and mountains, this waterfall is a must-see stop between Vancouver and Whistler.

Location: Shannon Falls Provincial Park, British Columbia

8. Maligne Canyon Falls

Maligne Canyon Falls plummet into the canyon providing a mystical and beautiful view.

Photo: Los Paseos / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The third-tallest in British Columbia, the Maligne Canyon waterfall is one of the main attractions of Maligne Canyon. It has incredibly beautiful turquoise water. The cascades of this gorgeous fall plummet into one of the narrowest and deepest limestone canyons in the Canadian Rockies. This waterfall’s location, a rocky valley, is breathtaking. In the summer, this place is well-liked by climbers and hikers. Also, this is perhaps the only waterfall on the list that is truly best visited in the winter. The waters turn into glistening ice forms as the canyon freezes. For adventure lovers, it offers ice climbing and ice walking experiences this season.

Location: Jasper National Park, Alberta

9. Pissing Mare Falls

A beautiful view of a waterfall dropping down from a mountain into a water body.

Photo: Pacific Southwest Region / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Pissing Mare Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in eastern North America, cascades directly from the Long Range Mountains. This is into the breathtaking glacier-carved freshwater fjord known as Western Brook Pond. The water occasionally gets pushed sideways or even back up when observed from the fjord below, especially on windy days. For the finest perspective, it is highly suggested to take a boat tour across Western Brook Pond. It will get you directly beneath the falls.

Location: Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland

10. Brandywine Falls

A picture displaying Brandywine Falls’s beauty amidst its gorgeous green surroundings

Photo: Kevin He / Wikimedia Commons

The Powder Mountain Ice field is the source of Brandywine Creek. This creek flows into a steep canyon over volcanic basalt cliffs to form the Brandywine Falls. From the parking area, a short, well-kept trail leads directly to the falls. The trail is regarded as easy and is appropriate for hikers of all ages, measuring around 1 km round-trip. There are dedicated observation platforms with expansive views of Daisy Lake, the surrounding mountains, and the waterfall. The park provides hiking and picnicking options in addition to waterfall watching.

Location: Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, near Whistler, British Columbia

Waterfalls in Canada are huge, spectacular and their seasonal drama is remarkable. The summers bring refreshing gusts of water droplets whereas the winters offer views of ice formations. Recreational opportunities make the falls an attractive affair for hikers. The panoramic views and surrounding greenery make them an attractive affair for nature lovers. Plan a perfect trip to these waterfalls with TripXL.

Cover Photo: Acediscovery / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! To visit most waterfalls located in national or provincial parks, you would require a permit. This is usually a day pass or a park permit. For example, one is needed for the Banff or Jasper National Park in Alberta.
The majority of Canada's waterfalls are found in public parks, where admission is either free or covered by park fees (such as those in national and provincial parks). Some (such as the attractions at Niagara Falls) might charge for certain activities (zip lines, boat trips, etc.).
Usually not. The majority of well-known waterfalls have clear, established paths. On the other hand, guided excursions can improve the experience, particularly in places that are more distant or difficult to reach.
A lot of routes are suitable for families, such as ones that lead to Brandywine Falls, Montmorency Falls, or Elbow Falls. Simply check the trail's difficulty in advance.

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