Hayward Reservoir Trail and Steelhead Falls

Hayward Reservoir Trail and Steelhead Falls near Mission, BC is a short, forested out-and-back with one real headliner: the falls. At 3.7 km with about 138 m of gain, it’s an easy hike on paper and usually takes just over an hour, but the mix of roots, short steeper sections, and the descent to the waterfall keeps it from feeling like a flat stroll.

The walk starts on a wide gravel path, then narrows into classic West Coast forest with mossy trunks, ferns, and steady birdsong if you’re out early. You don’t get much in the way of big lake views and there’s no good access for a swim, so think of this as a peaceful woods walk with a powerful waterfall payoff at Steelhead Falls, plus the option to continue past the main lookout for a slightly more rugged extension.

Recent hikers report the Steelhead Falls section in great shape, but the Hayward Reservoir Trail is still closed at Hairsine Inlet and the floating bridge is out, so you can’t loop around Hayward Lake from here. Expect some overgrown stretches about two-thirds in, a few slick or steep spots near the falls, and mosquitoes in season, so bring proper footwear and bug spray. Parking at Hayward Reservoir Trail and Steelhead Falls can fill quickly on weekends, so arrive early, and aim for April through August for the best conditions and flow at the falls.