Chase Creek Falls in Chase, BC
Chase Creek Falls in an impressive and easily accessible waterfall located just off the Trans-Canada Highway in Chase, BC. Even though it’s only a short walk to the waterfall and is located right off the highway, don’t be fooled — this hidden gem is well worth the stop!
Chase Creek Falls is a great pit stop if you need to stretch your legs for 20 minutes or can be a destination in and of itself.
During heavy run-off periods, the waterfall can span 80 feet across before plunging 32 feet into a pool. In the dry summer, it splits into two or three smaller streams as it runs over the wide ledge.
PS: If you want to explore more local waterfalls, check out this guide to the Okanagan’s waterfalls.
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Trail Stats
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trail Type: Out-and-back
- Length: 0.6 km (see map)
- Open Dates: Year-round
- Trailhead: Chase Creek parking lot
Where is Chase Creek Falls?
Chase Creek Falls is located just off the Trans-Canada Highway in the small town of Chase, BC (located between Kamloops and Salmon Arm). I swear, there are soo many amazing waterfalls right on the side of the highway and you’d never know!
Directions to the Waterfall
There’s a decent sized parking lot at the trailhead, but it’s not where you’d expect; it’s on the opposite side of the highway from the waterfall.
To get to the parking lot, turn onto Coburn Street from the highway — this intersection was under construction in September 2022, so if it’s still closed you’ll need to follow Google for alternate directions.
Once on Coburn Street, quickly turn onto Paquette Road and continue until you cross a single lane bridge and reach the Chase Creek Falls parking lot. There’s a school bus parking lot just beyond. It’s a weird little area and feels like you’re in the wrong spot.
What to Expect at Chase Creek Falls
Chase Creek Falls is only a short walk from the parking lot. However, the trail gets narrow and rocky near the waterfall itself which may be difficult for some people.
From the parking lot, follow the wide gravel trail along a chain link fence until it reaches an underpass for the Trans-Canada Highway.
The trail easily brings you under the highway and spits you out at an old rest stop that’s no longer accessible by car. There are a few picnic tables and infrastructure from Treetop Flyers, a local zipline which appears to be closed (this may change). This area was pretty overgrown when we visited.
From the rest area, follow the creek into the forest.
Hike to Chase Creek Waterfall
I use the term “hike” loosely in this heading. The trail from the rest stop to Chase Creek Falls is a little more difficult than you might expect, but it’s by no means a difficult hike.
Even though the trail in the beginning was wide and well groomed, the remainder of the trail becomes narrower and decidedly less groomed as it heads into a narrow canyon.
This section of the trail hugs the creek and before long, you’ll spot the waterfall! Depending on the time of year, you can walk right up to Chase Creek Falls and stand at its base.
The main trail ends a ways from the waterfall. To get closer to it, you’ll have to climb over large rocks and smaller, loose stones. Watch your footing and always test each rock before stepping on it!
Chase Creek Falls
Chase Creek Falls is considered a segmented horsetail waterfall — this means the water stays on the rock and breaks into multiple smaller falls as it tumbles down. It’s 30 feet tall and, during peak runoff season, can span up to 80 feet wide.
To be honest, the waterfall was a lot more impressive than I was expecting!
It’s very easy to get up close to Chase Creek Falls (unless there’s flooding) and stand beside it. The water does move very quickly from the falls down the creek, but there’s usually plenty of room at the edge to walk along.
On a hot summer’s day, it’s wonderful to visit the waterfall and cool off from its spray and the naturally cooler canyon. And, if you’re lucky, you might even spot some bighorn sheep!
When to Visit Chase Creek Falls
Chase Creek Falls is open year round.
Spring and early summer will award you with the heaviest water flows and most impressive waterfall. We visited near the end of July and were able to enjoy a stunning show.
In later summer or in very dry years, the creek will slow down and the waterfall will dry up a little. It won’t disappear, but it’s more likely you’ll see two or three streams instead of one gushing waterfall.
In the winter, you’ll be treated to a frozen waterfall! Chase Creek Falls is beautiful in the winter.
Facilities & Amenities
Chase Creek Falls has a few simple amenities. It’s still a fairly natural waterfall despite its proximity to Highway 1 and Chase.
Picnic Tables
There are a few picnic tables at the old rest stop near the trailhead. This area is becoming a little overgrown, but the picnic tables were still in good repair when I visited. It’s not the most beautiful picnic area ever, but hey, it works!
Bathrooms
There are apparently bathrooms here, but I don’t remember seeing them. But even though there are bathrooms, all the recent reports I’ve seen have said they’re closed.
It’s probably safest to bet there won’t be an accessible bathroom and if there is, it’s a nice bonus!
Parking Lot
There’s a decent sized gravel parking lot at the trailhead that makes it easy to access the waterfall trail.
Chase Creek Falls FAQ
Yes! There are picnic tables at the old rest area near the trailhead.
Most people spend about 10 to 20 minutes at Chase Creek Falls.
Yes, the waterfall trail is kid friendly. It’s not long or overly difficult with plenty of things along the way to keep kids interested. However, the creek and waterfall itself can be quite fast moving.
