This well-known B.C. waterfall creates spectacular ice formations every winter

Considered one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Whistler, Alexander Falls is a must-visit this winter. Its three tiers of rushing water will soon freeze over, creating some truly remarkable ice formations.

Standing 55 metres tall with a drop of an impressive 43 metres, the falls are known by locals and visitors alike to freeze into tiers of icicles during the colder months, according to Destination Vancouver. Typically, you can only view Alexander Falls from a designated viewing platform at Whistler Olympic Park, but in the winter, you can snowshoe right up to its base via the Callaghan.

Alexander Falls via Shutterstock

Situated 15 minutes south of Whistler along the Sea to Sky Highway/Highway 99, the Callaghan offers day passes for $18 to $25 a pop, depending on which trails you want access to.

The trail to Alexander Falls is ranked as “easy to access,” and snowshoes can be rented from the evo Callaghan store right from the base area for $18.75 per adult, and $10.50 per youth.

Alternatively, you can book cross-country day tickets from Whistler Olympic Park to access the glorious falls, in addition to 55 km of ski trails and 15 km of snowshoe trails ($20 to $37.50 per adult).

Note that there are some very steep sections included in this trail, so be sure to use a map and consider booking your tickets in advance.

How to reach the falls

If you go through the Callaghan, you’ll choose between two dog-friendly trails that weave through old-growth forest until you’re steps away from the frozen water.

If you’re looking for a route that’s a little more direct, the Express trail takes you straight down to the base of the falls and back up again — hence its steepness.

No matter how you choose to get there, it’s well worth the trip. Make sure you check trail conditions before heading out, and don’t forget to snap a photo!

How to get there: Drive one and a half hours from Vancouver to Alexander Falls via BC-99 N.

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Isabelle Vauclair

Staff Writer, Vancouver – Isabelle is a West Coast native with an appreciation for Vancouver’s natural landscape, patio scene, and community spaces. She loves to discover new hidden gems in her neighbourhood and share them with readers across the city.

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