Header image: Red Willow Falls by Lloyd Dykstra
Grande Prairie lives up to its name, with relatively flat, prairie-like terrain. However, as you travel farther west and south, you’ll find yourself entering the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
Along Alberta’s western border, tucked among the emerald hills of summer, you’ll find several waterfalls. Many of these waterfalls are only accessible by hiking, 4×4 vehicles, or ATVs. Set aside a day for an adventure and discover a different side of Northwest Alberta, with spectacular scenery and rewarding outdoor experiences.
Visit Red Willow Falls for a challenging hike and beautiful scenery. For an even greater adventure, explore Kakwa Falls, where you may spot wild horses along the way.
ALWAYS:
- Tell someone you trust where you’re headed and when you’ll be back.
- Bring food, water, and emergency supplies.
- Carry bear spray and familiarize yourself with what to do if you encounter a bear.
Eaton Falls
HOW: Hiking
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
Our first waterfall is located in Willmore Wilderness Park. The trail begins at the Sulphur Gates Staging Area and follows a route of approximately 3.5 km one way, with some challenging hills at the start. Look for the moose antler trail marker indicating the turnoff to Eaton Falls. The trail can be narrow and easy to miss, so keep an eye out as you hike.
Eaton Falls cascades over a towering face of jagged rock, creating a dramatic Rocky Mountain scene. Take care around the large rocks and unstable cliffs near the base of the falls, where conditions can be slippery.
Twin Falls
HOW: Hiking
DIFFICULTY: Family-friendly
Twin Falls is located about 12 km north of Grande Cache. Despite starting near the ominously named Hells Creek, the walk is relatively short and pleasant, taking you through a variety of interesting terrain. A signed viewpoint at the falls offers a great photo opportunity.
Muskeg Falls
HOW: Hiking
DIFFICULTY: Easy to moderate
The hike to Muskeg Falls starts with an easy walk through spruce forests, but accessing the falls themselves can be tricky. The final descent is sharp and narrow, with uneven footing. The upside? You can get right up to the falls, but please exercise extreme caution on wet terrain or near any edges.
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Kakwa Falls
HOW: Hiking, 4×4/ATV
DIFFICULTY: Hiking – Hard | 4×4/ATV – Moderate
Alberta’s tallest waterfall can be found in Kakwa Wildland Park, but getting there is no joke. An approximately 20 km unmaintained off-road trail makes up most of the journey. The drive takes around 1.5 hours by 4×4, less by ATV, while experienced hikers may need a full day. Be aware that the trail crosses several creeks and rivers, so high water levels may prevent access entirely. The effort is worth it: when you arrive, you may have the majestic 30 m falls all to yourselves.
Red Willow Falls
HOW: Hiking, ATV
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
The trail to Red Willow Falls is located near Beaverlodge, home of the legendary Giant Beaver. It’s a short but fairly challenging hike, with several steep, narrow inclines, some of which require the use of provided ropes. The marked quad trail offers an easier alternative, but it’s longer. Whichever route you take, bring your swimsuit, because the pool at the base of the falls is a great way to cool off!
Take caution: Bears are known to frequent this area, particularly in summer.
Cutbank Falls
HOW: Hiking, ATV
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
For ATV enthusiasts, the trails leading to Cutbank Falls offer a variety of intersecting routes to explore. For those travelling on foot, the same trails can become muddy and rutted by ATVs, making what should be a relatively easy hike more challenging at times. The destination is the same: a striking waterfall that has carved a path through a rocky channel.
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