Rearguard Falls
Witness the epic end of the salmon's 800-mile journey at Rearguard Falls, a powerful cascade on the Fraser River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Salmon migration peak
Rearguard Falls
Best Time
Salmon migration peak
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the epic end of the salmon's 800-mile journey at Rearguard Falls, a powerful cascade on the Fraser River.
"This free to enter Provincial Park is a Lil gem! Located right off the hwy, this short .80km/.50mile hike to the falls were amazing!"
🎯 Catch the Salmon Run
Visit in late summer for the best chance to see Chinook salmon attempting to navigate the falls.
👟 Easy Access Viewing
Short, downhill paths lead to well-maintained viewing platforms for great waterfall views. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Upper Limit of Salmon Migration
Fraser River
Witness the farthest point salmon travel upstream, a remarkable 1,260 km from the ocean. Only the strongest Chinook salmon reach this point.
Spectacular Cascades
Fraser River
Marvel at the powerful cascades of the Fraser River as it plunges over the falls, a breathtaking natural display.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Near the falls
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including eagles and, during the right season, salmon attempting to leap upstream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Salmon Sighting
Accessibility and Viewing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Salmon Run
Visit in late summer for the best chance to see Chinook salmon attempting to navigate the falls. 
👟 Easy Access Viewing
Short, downhill paths lead to well-maintained viewing platforms for great waterfall views. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photography Hotspot
Capture stunning shots of the falls and surrounding nature. Bring your camera! :camerawithflash:
🐻 Wildlife Spotting
You might see eagles or even bears near the river. Be aware of your surroundings. :bear:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Salmon Run
Visit in late summer for the best chance to see Chinook salmon attempting to navigate the falls.
👟 Easy Access Viewing
Short, downhill paths lead to well-maintained viewing platforms for great waterfall views. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photography Hotspot
Capture stunning shots of the falls and surrounding nature. Bring your camera! :camerawithflash:
🐻 Wildlife Spotting
You might see eagles or even bears near the river. Be aware of your surroundings. :bear:
🏞️ Relax by the River
Find a sunny spot on the shore to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. :sunwithface:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Rearguard Falls as a 'lil GEM' and a 'highly rewarding' quick stop. The accessibility, stunning cascades, and the unique natural spectacle of the salmon migration are frequently praised. While some visitors missed the salmon run, the falls themselves are considered well worth the visit, offering beautiful views and a chance to connect with nature.
"If you’re in or around Valemount, try not to miss this lil GEM. Very accessible with platforms and short 5 mins downhill walk to this magnificent falls. We got lucky watching a bunch of very skillful canoeing folks take on the fall. Decided to sit by the river side and spent like an hour at this beautiful site. Definitely worth a visit!!"
anuraags22
"This free to enter Provincial Park is a Lil gem! Located right off the hwy, this short .80km/.50mile hike to the falls were amazing! We weren't there during the famous Chinook salmon run, but it was still worth the quick stop to view these beautiful cascades!"
Adventures Are Out There
"We enjoyed this short trip down to the falls to stretch. The path was well travelled with safety railing on the platform overlooking the falls. I’d definitely stop here again! Pit outhouses are located down the hill a bit from the parking lot."
Nicole Hornett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rearguard Falls is conveniently located right off the Yellowhead Highway (Hwy 5) in British Columbia, making it an easy stop for travelers heading towards Jasper National Park. There is a dedicated parking area.
Public transport options are limited in this area. It's best to have your own vehicle or join a tour that includes this stop. Driving is the most common way to access the falls.
The closest town is Valemount, British Columbia, which offers amenities like accommodation and dining.
Yes, there is a parking lot available at Rearguard Falls Provincial Park, making it easy to stop and visit the falls. +1
Absolutely! Rearguard Falls is a popular and scenic stop along the Yellowhead Highway, perfect for breaking up the drive to Jasper National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Rearguard Falls Provincial Park is free to enter, making it an accessible and budget-friendly attraction.
Rearguard Falls Provincial Park is open year-round, with no specific operating hours. However, daylight hours are best for viewing and safety.
No advance booking is required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
While generally open, always check for any temporary closures or advisories from BC Parks, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Yes, it's an ideal quick stop. The walk to the falls is short, and you can easily spend 30 minutes to an hour enjoying the scenery.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The walk to the main viewing platforms is a short, downhill path, approximately 0.80 km (0.50 miles) round trip. +1
Yes, there are multiple viewing platforms offering different angles of the falls. Some areas allow you to get closer to the water's edge.
Swimming is not recommended due to the strong currents and powerful nature of the Fraser River at the falls.
The primary salmon species that reaches Rearguard Falls is the Chinook salmon, the largest and longest-migrating salmon.
Pit outhouses are available a short distance from the parking lot. There are no other major facilities within the immediate falls area.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late evening often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the falls' beauty. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the falls. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures to smooth the water.
The designated viewing platforms offer excellent perspectives. Exploring the rocky areas near the water's edge (with caution) can also yield unique shots.
Drone usage is subject to BC Parks regulations. Always check current rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone in provincial parks.
Patience is key. Try to capture the salmon leaping or swimming against the current. A telephoto lens might be helpful if you're at a distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited to pit outhouses. The open space near the riverbanks can be a fun spot for kids to explore (under strict supervision, of course!). The visual spectacle of the falls is captivating for all ages, and the chance to spot wildlife like eagles can be a real highlight for younger visitors.
🚗 Road Trippers
+2Consider timing your visit to coincide with the late summer salmon run for an extra special experience. Even if the salmon aren't visible, the falls themselves are impressive. It's a great spot to grab photos, enjoy a picnic (pack it in, pack it out!), and appreciate the raw power of the Fraser River.
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts
+1Beyond the salmon, keep an eye out for local birdlife, including eagles, which are often spotted in the area. The powerful flow of the Fraser River and the dramatic cascades make for a compelling natural display. It's a place to connect with the wild and witness the incredible forces of nature at play.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Salmon Migration
+3While seeing salmon actively jumping the falls is a highlight, it's important to manage expectations. Not every salmon will successfully navigate the falls, and sightings can depend on the exact timing of your visit and the river conditions. Even without a direct salmon sighting, the sheer power and beauty of the falls themselves are well worth the stop. The surrounding natural environment also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, adding another layer to the experience.
Tips for Salmon Spotting: Visit in late summer for the highest chance of seeing the migration. Be patient and observe the water carefully. While the falls are the main attraction, the journey of these salmon is the true marvel.
+1Exploring Rearguard Falls Provincial Park
Beyond the main viewing areas, the park offers opportunities to explore the riverbanks. Visitors can venture onto the rocky areas near the water's edge, but caution is advised due to the strong currents. These spots can be perfect for sunbathing or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere. The park is also a great place for a quick leg stretch during a road trip, offering a rewarding natural spectacle for a brief visit.
Park Amenities: While the park focuses on natural access, it does provide essential facilities like pit outhouses located a short distance from the parking lot. There are no extensive visitor centers or cafes directly at the falls, so come prepared with any snacks or water you might need. The park's simplicity enhances its charm as a natural stop.
Photography at the Falls
If you're visiting during the salmon run, capturing the fish in action adds a unique element to your photos. This might require a telephoto lens to get closer shots of the salmon leaping or swimming against the current. Patience and keen observation are key to photographing this natural spectacle. Early morning or late evening light can offer softer, more dramatic lighting conditions, enhancing the visual appeal of the falls.
+1Remember to be mindful of the environment and other visitors when taking photos. Respect any posted signage regarding access to certain areas. While drone photography can offer unique perspectives, always ensure you are aware of and comply with BC Parks regulations regarding drone usage in provincial parks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit