It won’t be long before Alberta’s waterfalls start to freeze over and winter covers the province in snow, so now is a great time to get out and see them. In the fall, you can catch many of these waterfalls surrounded by changing leaves, making for gorgeous views.
Whether you’re looking for a quick stop that doesn’t require much hiking or a full day trip, the province has plenty of spots to explore.
To make it easier, we’ve rounded up five stunning waterfalls worth chasing this autumn.
Lundbreck Falls is home to a 12-metre waterfall that drops into the Crowsnest River below. Take in the view from one of the observation platforms, or follow the short trail down for a closer look. The falls are just a short drive from Waterton Lakes National Park
Where: Range Road 24B, Lundbreck, Alta.
Located in Jasper National Park, Athabasca Falls is known for its powerful rushing water and the deep canyon it has carved into the surrounding rock. The falls are about 23 metres high, with several walking paths and viewpoints around them. The trail to the main viewpoint is short and easy, so if you’re not ready to commit to a long trail, this might be a great spot for you.
Where: About 30 km south of Jasper, Alta., off Highway 93
Crescent Falls features two waterfalls that drop into the Bighorn Canyon, and it’s definitely one of the more dramatic waterfalls on this list. It’s located about 30 kilometres west of Nordegg, and you can reach the main viewpoint with a short walk from the parking area. The surrounding area is also popular for camping and exploring, so you could even stay overnight.
Where: Crescent Falls Provincial Recreation Area, Clearwater County, Alta.
If you’re heading to Waterton Lakes National Park this autumn, stop by Blakiston Falls. The trail starts at the Red Rock Canyon and is about two kilometres round trip, taking you through the forest to a viewing platform overlooking the falls and the canyon below.
Where: Red Rock Parkway, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alta.
Troll Falls is a great stop before the temperatures really drop, especially if you want to see it surrounded by fall colours. You can reach the waterfall on a roughly three-kilometre round-trip trail in Kananaskis, with a relatively easy route through the forest. If you want to keep going after the main falls, continue to Upper Troll Falls before heading back.
Where: Improvement District No. 4, Kananaskis, Alta.
Alberta has plenty of stunning waterfalls to explore, but these five are a great place to start. Just don’t wait too long to see them before winter arrives and the trails become harder to access.
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Kaiya Williams
Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.
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