Kennedy Falls and Big Cedar
A rugged 10-12km hike through lush rainforest to a dramatic waterfall, passing a giant ancient cedar tree.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Kennedy Falls and Big Cedar
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rugged 10-12km hike through lush rainforest to a dramatic waterfall, passing a giant ancient cedar tree.
"The end reward? Kennedy Falls itself. A long, dramatic waterfall that made the whole hike worthwhile."
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy hiking boots are a must for the muddy, rooty, and rocky terrain.
⏰ Go Early to Park
Parking lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kennedy Falls
End of the trail
A dramatic, long waterfall cascading into a serene forest setting. The ultimate reward for your hike.
Big Cedar Tree
Along the trail
An enormous, ancient cedar tree, a majestic landmark offering a glimpse into the forest's history.
Misty Forest Atmosphere
Throughout the trail
Lush greenery and a serene, misty ambiance, perfect for a tranquil escape, especially on cloudy days.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for This Hike
Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy hiking boots are a must for the muddy, rooty, and rocky terrain.
⏰ Go Early to Park
Parking lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.
💧 Be Prepared for Mud
The trail can be very muddy and wet, so expect to get a little dirty.
⬆️ Chain Assist Section
A steep section has a chain to help with balance and climbing.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy hiking boots are a must for the muddy, rooty, and rocky terrain.
⏰ Go Early to Park
Parking lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.
💧 Be Prepared for Mud
The trail can be very muddy and wet, so expect to get a little dirty.
⬆️ Chain Assist Section
A steep section has a chain to help with balance and climbing.
🌲 Respect the Forest
Stay on marked trails and pack out everything you pack in.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the stunning Kennedy Falls and the impressive Big Cedar tree, calling the hike a beautiful escape into nature. However, many find the trail long, muddy, and technically challenging, with some feeling it wasn't worth the effort due to the difficult conditions.
"We hiked to Kennedy Falls this Saturday and it turned out to be the perfect day, just the right balance between cool and warm, making the trek really enjoyable. The trail starts at the end of Mountain Highway in North Vancouver, along a wide gravel road that branches off into several trailheads.
The Kennedy Falls trail itself felt beginner to moderate in terms of difficulty. There were a few sections that required careful footing, especially the part where we had to walk along tree roots with a chain on the side to help balance but nothing too intense. We even saw a few elderly hikers on the trail (though no kids or dogs), which reassured us that it’s doable for most people with decent fitness.
The path winds through a lush forest filled with stunning West Coast scenery. One of the highlights was following the Big Cedar Tree trail, where we encountered a massive old cedar tree that felt like a piece of history standing tall among the woods. The trail gradually climbed higher with a mix of uphill and downhill sections, keeping things interesting but not exhausting.
The best part? The end reward; Kennedy Falls itself. A long, dramatic waterfall that made the whole hike worthwhile. It’s a peaceful spot to take a break, enjoy the view, and soak in the sounds of rushing water surrounded by untouched forest.
Overall, if you’re looking for a trail that offers variety, forest charm, and a stunning waterfall at the end, Kennedy Falls is definitely worth the adventure."
Samana Gotame
"It took me 2.5 hours to reach the waterfalls at a brisk pace. The trail is very well marked so you won’t get lost. The trail is not suitable for running or a mountain bike because it crosses multiple loose rock streams, go over fallen trees, and you need to use your hands often. It is long but fun. I would not recommend it if you have bad knees or back. Otherwise, it is fun, not busy, and the waterfall is beautiful. A bit chilly to get wet because the sun doesn’t go easily through the tall trees and there is wind and mist, but the water is crystal clear and worth it.
Keep in mind that if you spend an hour in the waterfalls it will be a 6 hour hike and the parking at Mt. Fromme closes at 9pm. The parking had plenty of spots on a Sunday, and it is free."
L Le
"I went to Kennedy Falls yesterday. The waterfall itself was beautiful, and the big cedar tree was nice to see. But overall, I didn’t enjoy the hike. The trail was very long and muddy, with lots of roots, mosquitoes, and spider webs along the way. It was well marked. Wasn’t too busy…For me, it wasn’t worth the effort, and I wouldn’t do this hike again."
Manu Goyal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located at the end of Mountain Highway in North Vancouver. You'll find a gravel road that leads to various trailheads, including the one for Kennedy Falls. Parking is available but can fill up quickly.
While public transport can get you to North Vancouver, the trailhead is quite remote. It's generally recommended to have a car for easier access to the Kennedy Falls and Big Cedar hike.
The trail is generally well-marked, but having a reliable offline map on your phone or a physical map is always a good idea for longer hikes.
It's always wise to check local park advisories before heading out, especially during different seasons, for any unexpected closures or trail conditions.
From downtown Vancouver, the drive to the Kennedy Falls trailhead typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to access Kennedy Falls and Big Cedar. It's a public park, and the hike is free to enjoy.
Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, where Kennedy Falls is located, is generally open from dawn until dusk. However, the parking lot at Mt. Fromme closes at 9 PM.
No advance booking is required for the Kennedy Falls and Big Cedar hike. It's a natural trail, and you can visit anytime during park hours.
No special permits are required for day hiking to Kennedy Falls and Big Cedar. Standard park regulations apply.
It is not recommended to hike to Kennedy Falls at night due to trail conditions and safety. The park is generally open from dawn to dusk.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered intermediate. It's about 10-12 km round trip with significant elevation gain and rugged terrain, including roots, rocks, and some steep sections. +1
The hike can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at the falls. Some hikers complete it briskly in 2.5 hours.
Restroom facilities are typically limited at the trailhead. It's advisable to use facilities before you start your hike.
While some older children might manage, the rugged terrain and length make it challenging for younger kids. It's best suited for those with good stamina.
Yes, the trail is dog-friendly, but ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.
📸 📸 Photography
The main waterfall is a stunning subject. Also, capture the ancient Big Cedar tree and the misty, lush forest scenery along the trail.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the falls and forest. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on wet surfaces.
You can get relatively close to the base of Kennedy Falls, but be mindful of slippery rocks and the spray from the water.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. However, the misty conditions can create a unique, moody atmosphere at any time.
Drone usage is often restricted in regional parks. It's best to check the specific regulations for Lynn Headwaters Regional Park before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do bring children, ensure they have proper footwear and are prepared for a long day. Consider shorter, less demanding hikes in the area if you have very young children. 👟 Hikers Seeking a Challenge
The stunning waterfall at the end makes the effort feel entirely worthwhile. 📸 Nature Photographers
+2 The varied terrain and the dramatic waterfall provide diverse subjects. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens and a polarizing filter for optimal shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rugged Trail Experience
One notable feature is a steep section with a chain assist, which helps hikers descend and ascend safely.
This trail is not ideal for running or mountain biking due to its technical nature.
+1The Majestic Big Cedar and Kennedy Falls
Further along the trail, you'll reach Kennedy Falls, a spectacular waterfall that makes the entire hike worthwhile. The falls are described as long, dramatic, and breathtaking, cascading into a serene pool surrounded by untouched forest.
+1Even on cloudy or rainy days, the forest setting and the falls offer a unique and beautiful experience, with a serene and misty ambiance that adds to the magic of the location.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit