Places to be: Bridal Veil Falls

“Ahhh, we’re in Chilliwack alright!” says Ori as the smell of fresh manure and burnt clutch wafts up into our nostrils. 

It had been a hour since we left UBC and we made a pit stop to re-supply for whatever lied ahead. If you don’t need your daily breakfast dose of fried chicken and cherry Coke, then by all means continue right through Chilliwack and onwards to Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park. Situated right next to a stunning trailer park, this location is incredible for those who want to witness something amazing without having to hike for hours. If 15 minutes sounds like a nice hike, well then this is the place for you. If you’re into waterfalls, tall trees and long exposures, then this is also the place for you. Just don’t forget your tripod. 

Upon arrival, you will follow a trail up into the woods. Technically, the park is closed during the winter, but that doesn’t stop the hoards of visitors that flock to see the falls, regardless of the time of year. Broken branches and fallen leaves litter the park floor. The road turns into a gravel trail. Before long, you should find some luxurious bathrooms on the right — use them.

Continue upwards as the slope of the trail starts to increase and you will eventually reach the end of the path. This is by no means the end of the journey. This trail cul-de-sac is one of the best viewpoints of the waterfall itself because it enables the viewer to understand just how tall it is. Continue past the fence and walk up to the piece de resistance.

The main waterfall is huge! Standing over 60 metres tall, the waterfall cascades down over a series of smooth rocks, creating plenty of mist which can be problematic when trying to take pictures of the falls down-wind. Pro tip: Once your focus is set, cover your lens with a clothing item, adjust your settings and remove it right before taking the picture. One surprising thing about the falls is how little water volume there actually is — the water is spread very thinly over a huge surface area, making the falls appear much larger than they actually are. The extent of this is such that you can actually walk right up to the waterfall itself and touch the back wall if you don’t mind getting very wet. 

Further downstream, the water forks and the current slows, making it possible to cross to the other side. The trail on this side is rougher and steeper, but manageable if one is careful with footing. If you’re going during the winter, make sure to dress warmly and keep an eye out for storms and heavy rains that could cause water levels to rise at a moment's notice. 

Once you’re soaked to the bone and freezing, then you may start making your way back to your vehicle. If you’ve still got some energy left, make a little detour to Harrison (about 14 kilometres away) and check out the local hot springs. Otherwise, just head on home and indulge in the most satisfying shower of your life. Maybe stop for some food on the way and hot chocolate. You’ve earned it.

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