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    Hikes/Canada/British Columbia/West Kootenays

    McPhee Waterfalls Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    1.5-2h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    5.6 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    170 m
    User Ratings
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    The McPhee Waterfalls Hike is a 5.6 km out-and-back hiking route near Castlegar, BC, that will take you along the edge of the Kootenay River to reach a stunning, moss-covered waterfall. Along the trail, you can expect to pass through beautiful stretches of forest and experience scenic views that stretch across the valley. Make sure to travel in groups and bring bear spray, as cougars are sometimes seen along the trail.

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    Route Description for McPhee Waterfalls Hike

    The McPhee Waterfalls are a beautiful geological feature near Castlegar that are covered in a thick layer of green moss and are characterized by a strong torrent of water during wetter times of the year. Easily accessible by a short hike through the forest, the area around the falls is a peaceful spot that is perfect for reconnecting with nature.

    The trail sets out near the Castlegar Golf Course and heads through the forest around the power substation. Here, the trail will turn to the northeast on a route that runs parallel to the Kootenay River before crossing over the flowing waters of Little McPhee Creek. After a few hundred metres, you will arrive at the moss-covered falls along McPhee Creek and can relax to the sound of the rushing water within the peaceful forest atmosphere. After enjoying the views, head back along the same route to return to the trailhead, while taking in views overlooking the valley and surrounding mountains.

    Getting to the McPhee Waterfalls Hike Trailhead

    To get to the McPhee Waterfalls trailhead from the BC-3 highway in Castlegar, take the exit onto Columbia Road and follow it north for 2.4 km. Make a right turn onto Aaron Road and continue on for 600 m, where you will turn right onto McPhee Creek Road. In 3.8 km, you will find the parking area and a trail on the left side of the road. On foot, follow the trail north and keep right at the junction to reach the trailhead.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      Year-Round

    • Backcountry Campsites

      No

    • Pets allowed

      Yes

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    McPhee Waterfalls Hike Elevation Graph

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    McPhee Waterfalls Hike Reviews

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