Lower Bugaboo Falls Trail
Lower Bugaboo Falls Trail
5.0
(2)
43
hikers
00:49
2.82km
70m
Hiking
Hike the easy Lower Bugaboo Falls Trail in Bugaboo Provincial Park to a majestic glacier-fed waterfall, covering 1.8 miles in under an hour.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
16 m
Highlight (Segment) • Other
Tip by
1.39 km
Highlight • Waterfall
Tip by
2.82 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.81 km
Surfaces
2.81 km
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 7 May
17°C
4°C
4 %
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Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Yes, the trail is generally considered easy and is a rewarding option for beginners and families. It's a 1.6-mile out-and-back route with a good 'effort/reward ratio'. However, be aware of steep drop-offs along certain sections and exercise caution, especially with children.
The trail is conveniently located just off Highway 95. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it can be limited, especially during peak hours. Arriving early is advisable to secure a spot.
The Lower Bugaboo Falls Trail is located within Bugaboo Provincial Park. While there are no specific permits required for this particular trail, it's always good practice to check the official BC Parks website for any current regulations or advisories regarding provincial park access.
The trail offers different experiences throughout the year. Early summer provides turbulent high water flow at the falls, while fall and winter can feature scenic ice formations. Later in the season, some sections may become icy, potentially requiring microspikes. The trail is accessible for much of the year, but conditions vary.
Yes, the Lower Bugaboo Falls Trail is pet-friendly, so you can bring your dog along. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all visitors.
The primary highlight is the majestic Lower Bugaboo Falls itself, a powerful glacier-fed waterfall. The hike also takes you through scenic woodland terrain alongside Bugaboo Creek, with occasional 'peekaboo views' of the Rocky Mountain Trench. Views of the falls are spectacular from rocky ledges above, but caution is advised due to steep drop-offs.
Yes, while there's a main, more worn path to the top of the falls, an optional, more scenic route involves elevation loss and gain to view the falls from below. This alternate path includes a rough and steep section before climbing back up, offering a different perspective of the falls.
The hike is approximately 2.8 kilometers (1.6 miles) out-and-back. Most hikers can complete the trail in about 45-50 minutes, depending on their pace and how long they spend enjoying the falls.
The trail is largely flat but does feature some small inclines and declines. It winds through woodland terrain alongside Bugaboo Creek. Hikers should be mindful of steep drop-offs in certain areas. Later in the season, some sections can become icy.
The Lower Bugaboo Falls Trail is an out-and-back route. You will return along the same path you took to reach the falls.
Yes, hikers should be aware of steep drop-offs along the trail, especially near the falls. Exercise caution, particularly with children. Later in the season, sections of the trail can become icy, so consider bringing microspikes if hiking in colder months.