Shannon Falls Pools Trail

Shannon Falls Pools Trail in Squamish is short, steep, and way spicier than the stats suggest. At just 2.4 km with about 243 m of gain, it packs in ropes, chains, scrambling, and big exposure in under an hour and a half. If you like a bit of adrenaline with your waterfall views, this is one of the most fun little missions in the Shannon Falls / Stawamus Chief area.

The trail starts from the Shannon Falls Provincial Park parking lot, then quickly ducks into the forest on a hidden little entrance across the river. From there it climbs hard over roots, rock slabs, and a series of rope and chain sections that feel a bit like a mini version of the Chief. At the top, you’re rewarded with powerful views of Shannon Falls and a set of clear pools where people swim, sun on the rocks, and look out toward Squamish and the Chief in the distance.

Recent hikers report very technical sections, real scrambling, and a few spots where you’re basically hauling yourself up and down with chains, so this is not a beginner hike or a place for sandals. The rock gets slick when it’s wet, the current near the main big pool can be strong, and it’s easy to underestimate how fast things can go wrong if you slip. Go with proper hiking shoes, pack light so you can move well on the ropes, keep your distance from the edges, download your map, be bear aware, and aim for dry weather or at least solid rain gear if you’re heading up in the fall and winter when the waterfall is roaring.