10 Canadian Waterfall Hikes Your Family Will Love

There’s something magical about hiking to a waterfall — the sound of rushing water, the cool mist in the air, and the excitement of discovery around the next bend. Waterfall hikes are some of the best outdoor adventures for young families, and these short hikes offer big rewards with minimal effort.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in British Columbia, exploring hidden gems in Ontario, or discovering the beauty of Cape Breton, these family-friendly trails are easy, accessible, and packed with unforgettable scenery. Grab your sneakers — and maybe a towel — and get ready for adventure!

Yoho National Park – Takkakaw Falls (British Columbia)

One of the tallest waterfalls in Canada, Takkakaw Falls plunges dramatically from a glacier-fed river. The short trail to the base is easy and stroller-accessible, with misty spray cooling you off as you approach.

• Distance: 1.4 km return
• Time: 30–45 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: Yes (paved trail)
• Why Families Love It: Big visual impact with little effort — perfect for young kids and jaw-dropping family photos!

Glacier National Park – Bear Creek Falls Trail (British Columbia)

A short but exciting hike takes you to a roaring cascade tucked into lush temperate rainforest. The trail is shaded and lined with towering evergreens.

• Distance: 1 km return
• Time: 30 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: No (natural terrain)
• Why Families Love It: A big “wow” moment packed into a short, manageable hike.

Athabasca Falls (Jasper National Park, Alberta)

One of the most powerful waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies, Athabasca Falls is famous for its force and beauty. A short, easy trail with multiple fenced viewpoints lets you experience the thundering water safely and up close.

• Distance: ~1 km loop
• Time: 30–45 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: Partially — paved paths to main viewpoints
• Why Families Love It: Short walking distance, stunning views, and exciting canyon formations make this an easy win for young adventurers.

Johnston Canyon (Banff National Park, Alberta)

Walk along secure catwalks bolted into the canyon walls and experience stunning Lower and Upper Falls. It feels adventurous but is accessible for young families.

• Distance: 2.7 km return to Lower Falls; 5.2 km return to Upper Falls
• Time: 1–2 hours
• Stroller-Friendly: No (narrow walkways and stairs)
• Why Families Love It: A true bucket-list adventure that feels like something out of a storybook!

Smokey Hollow Waterfall Trail (Waterdown, Ontario)

A hidden gem near Hamilton, Smokey Hollow offers a short, scenic hike to a beautiful cascade. A platform provides an easy viewing spot, and older kids can enjoy light exploring along side trails.

• Distance: ~1 km return
• Time: 20–30 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: No (natural trail, roots/rocks)
• Why Families Love It: A quick, exciting outing with the feeling of a real “hidden” waterfall adventure.

Hilton Falls Conservation Area (Milton, Ontario)

A family favorite, Hilton Falls is a short, relatively easy hike through shady woods leading to a charming waterfall — plus ruins of an old mill nearby to explore!

• Distance: 3 km return (main trail)
• Time: 1–1.5 hours
• Stroller-Friendly: Partially — good with sturdy strollers
• Why Families Love It: A beautiful destination combined with history, perfect for sparking kids’ imaginations.

Bridal Veil Falls (Manitoulin Island, Ontario)

An enchanting walk leads you to a graceful, lacy waterfall where you can wade and play in the shallow pool at the base. A must-visit on Manitoulin Island!

• Distance: 0.5 km to falls
• Time: 20–30 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: No (steps)
• Why Families Love It: Easy access + water play = guaranteed giggles and memory-making.

Webster Falls (Hamilton, Ontario)

One of Hamilton’s most famous waterfalls, Webster Falls is a wide, picture-perfect cascade surrounded by a historic park setting — ideal for family picnics after your hike.

• Distance: ~1 km return from parking
• Time: 20–30 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: Yes (on paved and gravel paths to viewpoints)
• Why Families Love It: Easy access, gorgeous views, and room to relax and play.

Balls Falls Conservation Area – Cataract Trail (Lincoln, Ontario)

Follow the Cataract Trail to discover the Upper and Lower Balls Falls, with historic village ruins adding extra interest along the way.

• Distance: ~3 km round trip
• Time: 1–1.5 hours
• Stroller-Friendly: Partially (gravel paths — rugged stroller recommended)
• Why Families Love It: Waterfalls plus a little slice of Ontario history to explore.

Beulach Ban Falls (Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia)

A scenic drive and a short walk lead to this beautiful, wide waterfall hidden in a wooded glen. Perfect for a quick stop during a Cape Breton adventure.

• Distance: ~0.6 km return
• Time: 15–20 minutes
• Stroller-Friendly: Partially — flat but natural surface
• Why Families Love It: An easy, peaceful stop that’s great for little legs to stretch and explore.

Final Thoughts

Waterfall hikes are some of the best adventures for families — short, exciting, and full of wonder at every turn. From the towering cascades of the Rockies to hidden gems in Ontario’s conservation areas, there’s a perfect family-friendly waterfall hike waiting for you across Canada.

Remember, the best family memories are made outside — and sometimes, they come with a little splash!

You only get one chance to live this life with your kids.

Let’s make it count — outside.
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