Chawuthen Creek Falls

Chawuthen Creek Falls is one of those “are we even on a trail?” kind of hikes just outside Hope, BC, and that’s exactly its charm. This short 2.6 km out-and-back route climbs about 151 m and usually takes under an hour, but it feels more like an off-the-map mission than a casual stroll. Expect a moderate workout, light route-finding, and almost zero crowds.

You’ll start from the Flood Falls parking area and work your way along old roads and faint mountain bike tracks toward Chawuthen Creek Falls. The path is only lightly used and not well flagged except near the creek crossing, so pay attention as you thread through the forest and across soft slide debris. When the water is flowing, you get a rugged, up-close viewpoint of the falls and a quiet, tucked-away corner of the Hope area that most people skip.

Recent hikers report lots of spider webs, overgrowth, and some bushwhacking, with one group feeling like they were the first on the trail this year, which tells you how little traffic Chawuthen Creek Falls gets. The rock garden on the way down is a nice bonus stop, but be aware the waterfall can dry up in late summer or after long dry stretches, so spring or a few days after rain are your best bet for actual water. Wear long sleeves for brush, expect to move slowly in spots, and don’t count on clear signage; this is more of an adventure route than a polished tourist trail in Hope.