Three Falls Trail

Three Falls Trail in E.C. Manning Park is a mellow, forested out-and-back that gives you a lot of payoff for a relatively easy day. At 9.3 km with only 289 m of gain and a top elevation around 1,388 m, it usually takes under three hours, even with photo stops. The draw here is simple: a relaxed walk through Strawberry Flats and the woods, finishing at the impressive Derek Falls.

The trail starts gently from Strawberry Flats, passing through open forest and then dropping toward the valley as you get closer to the falls. Most of the route is shaded, smooth, and well marked, with a few rock slide crossings and a couple of slightly exposed sections that most families manage without trouble. You’ll clearly see the first and third waterfalls, while the second “fall” is more of a distant view across the valley and easy to miss if you’re not looking; Derek Falls at the end is the real highlight, with a steep little descent if you want a closer look.

Recent hikers report clean, quiet conditions, minimal bugs outside peak summer, and very well flagged winter routes with orange markers. In spring and shoulder seasons, expect slushy or melting snow, narrow packed tracks, and the odd posthole, so winter boots or light traction help; full crampons or snowshoes are only needed after fresh dumps. Signage about dogs can be confusing near the parallel ski trails, but people do bring leashed dogs, and there’s an outhouse at Strawberry Flats. Three Falls Trail is best from late spring to fall for dry footing and berry bushes turning colour, but it’s also a fun, straightforward snowshoe in winter if you’re prepared for changing snow and the occasional bear sign.