Crooked Falls

Crooked Falls in Squamish is one of those hikes that feels way bigger than the stats suggest. On paper it’s a 5.3 km out-and-back with about 472 m of gain, but most people’s trackers are showing closer to 7–10 km and around 3 hours round trip. It’s rated challenging for good reason: short, steep, and punchy, but the payoff at the falls is huge.

The trail starts from Ashlu Road and climbs through classic Squamish forest on the Sigurd Trail, with old-growth vibes, mossy rock staircases, and lots of roots and boulders to keep it interesting. The first third is a gentle warm-up, then the grade kicks up and you’ll be using your hands on a few scrambly sections. Along the way there are viewpoints over the Squamish Valley, and at the end you’re right beside Crooked Falls, feeling the mist and watching the water hammer down, especially powerful in spring and after rain.

Right now, hikers are reporting a well-marked, well-maintained route with frequent flagging and mostly dry tread, but still rocky, uneven, and slippery when wet. Expect steep sections that can feel sketchy on the descent, limited parking at the roadside, bugs in warmer months, and some overgrown side viewpoints. Bring solid hiking shoes with good grip, plenty of water, and bear spray, and give yourself extra time beyond the “official” distance. April through November is prime for Crooked Falls, with late spring and early summer giving the loudest flow and a cool misty reward at the top.