bergeron falls
Experience Bergeron Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in northern British Columbia. With a 100-meter descent over a sandstone rim, the falls form a stunning horseshoe-shaped basin. The trail offers diverse views, allowing you to explore both the upper and lower sections of the waterfall, and take in awe-inspiring stretches of the riverside and canyon areas.
Distance | Time:
Top of Falls: 9 km return | 3-4 hours
Circular Route: 12 km return | 5-7 hours
Elevation Gain:
170 m to Top of Falls
450 m for Circular Route
Trail Rating:
Moderate - Top of Falls
Challenging - Circular Route
Features:
Highest accessible waterfall in northern BC.
Caution:
Huge, unbarricaded drop-offs. 4 creek crossings.
-
Trails
The trails to Bergeron Cliffs and Bergeron Falls are maintained by volunteers of the Wolverine Nordic & Mountain Society. The first 500 m of trail are shared, after which there is a fork: cliffs to the left, falls to the right. Further on a connector trail links the two trails for those who wish to visit both destinations. Both trails have interpretive signage highlighting geological and scenic features.
-
Ice Climbing
If you're an ice climbing enthusiast, Bergeron Falls presents an excellent challenge during the winter months, owing to its impressive height. While the vertical segments pose a true technical challenge, the falls remain a popular destination for ice climbers. As winter progresses, an ice cave typically takes shape near the base of the falls, making it an alluring spot to visit in late winter.
-
History
In the past, pioneer ranchers had to visit Dawson Creek once or twice annually, prompting the creation of pack trails that occasionally overlapped with traplines. The Murray River served as a convenient travel route, with pack trails built on both sides. Presently, a well-preserved historic pack trail that shows remnants of trapping activity can be found leading from the area to the Murray River.
-
Trip Link
Extend your hike on the way back to the trailhead by checking out Bergeron Cliffs. Follow the connector trail from km 10.5 along the cutline and then climb steadily to reach the top of the cliffs, where you can enjoy five fantastic viewpoints while walking along them.
-
Photography
Bergeron Falls are a breathtaking spectacle, cascading down into a cliff-edged amphitheater. Mountain goats can sometimes be spotted on the steep cliffs. After heavy rainfall, the falls are especially awe-inspiring, and witnessing the highest waterfall in the area in full flood is an unforgettable experience.
-
Caution
The falls offer three different vantage points to admire their unique characteristics and attributes. However, for your own safety, please refrain from approaching the cliff edge in other areas as it can be steep and unstable in certain spots. Be sure to obey the barricades that have been put in place.
DIRECTIONS TO TRAILHEAD
From Tumbler Ridge, drive north towards Chetwynd on Hwy 29 for 6.5 km to the signed right turn onto a gravel road. Follow this road for 8 km to its end beside a large gravel pit. There is a sign at the trailhead.