Lady Falls in Strathcona Provincial Park

EasyCampbell River · Vancouver Island & Gulf IslandsUpdated June 12, 2024

Lady Falls Hike Stats

Rating Difficult hikes offer big climbs with lots of elevation gain and technical terrain, some requiring a full day’s effort. Generally, difficult hikes should not be undertaken by children or novice hikers. These are rated as ‘hikes’ and not ‘walks’ so even something rated as easy may have a few sections of challenging terrain. More on how we measure trails: Easy
Distance For the out-and-back hikes, the distances offered for each hike are measured from the trailhead, to the summit, and then back to the trailhead. Distances, even when provided to a fraction of a kilometer, are only rough estimates. More on how we measure trails: 0.9 km
Net Elevation Change The listed elevation gain is the simple math of the difference in the starting elevation and the summit, in meters. It is not a cumulative calculation of the total elevation gained during the hike. This means, in most cases, you will actually climb more than the listed net elevation gain. More on how we measure trails: 30 m
Highest Point: 280 m
Time Needed The completion times of the hikes are estimates and will, naturally, vary per individual, ability, and weather conditions. The times offered, however, are meant to be generous. More on how we measure trails: 30 Minutes
Type: Out-and-back
Season Each hike has a corresponding season when the trail is most likely to be in good condition. However, as the snowmelt can vary each year, these too, are estimates. It is best to confirm the current trail conditions before heading out. More on how we measure trails: Year-round
Dogs Allowed If hiking with dogs is allowed, it does not necessarily mean that the trail is ‘dog-friendly’. Even though dogs might be allowed, it may be a bad idea to bring them on certain Vancouver hikes (due to ladders, difficult sections, boulder fields, etc). More on how we measure trails: Yes, on leash
Est. Driving Time from Vancouver: 7 Hours
Trailhead Coordinates: 49.855058, -125.785216

*For a better understanding of the stats and difficulty rating, check out the Hiking Guides page for details. Always carry The Essentials and fill out a trip plan.

Usually in season as shown; check current conditions before you go.

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Lady Falls Hike Intro

Lady Falls is one of many amazing waterfalls within Strathcona Provincial Park.

Lady Falls is easily accessible by a parking area off Highway 28 and is an easy hike. A platform overlooking the tremendous waterfall can be reached on a short and well-marked trail within about 10 minutes from the parking area.

Falling nearly 100 feet along the Cervus Creek into a scenic gorge, Lady Falls is a beautiful waterfall, and is well-worth seeking out.

This hike the perfect outing for families camping at Buttle Lake, or anywhere within Strathcona Provincial Park.

The best time of year to view the falls is during the spring runoff until the start of summer. During this time of year, the cascade of water pouring over the falls can be dramatic!

Lady Falls Video

Hike Map and Elevation (one-way)

Map and elevation profile

The listed elevation gain is the simple math of the difference in the starting elevation and the summit, in meters. It is not a cumulative calculation of the total elevation gained during the hike. This means, in most cases, you will actually climb more than the listed net elevation gain.

Hiking Route

At the parking area along the Gold River Highway/ Highway 28, there is an outhouse and picnic area along the river.

From the parking area, follow the trail into the forest. The trail is well-maintained and is free of tree roots and deadfall.

The trail carries up through a forest of Western hemlock and Douglas fir trees.

After about one-hundred meters into the trail, there is a switchback. From here, the trail starts climbing uphill.

The trail climbs at a gradual rate until reaching the overlook of the waterfall. It is easy to stay on the path, and there aren’t any junctions where you can go astray.

As you climb up the trail. there are a couple of wood logs that have been carved into benches should you decide to take a break.

Within about 10 minutes of beginning the hike, you will emerge onto the wooden platform perched on the edge of the cliff opposite the impressive Lady Falls.

lady falls waterfall — The falls during the spring runoff

lady falls strathcona — The beautiful falls

The waterfall plummets nearly 30 meters to the canyon floor below. Depending on the strength of the falls when you visit, you may be able to feel the spray of the falls.

Enjoy the incredible view before heading back out to the parking area.

If you want to check out other waterfalls in the area, Lupin Falls and Myra Falls are well worth the visit.

bottom of lady falls — The powerful falls

Directions and Parking

Get directions to the trailhead

lady falls parking — Lady Falls parking and picnic area

From Campbell River, head west on Highway 28, following the signs for Strathcona Park. Follow the road for nearly 50 km until reaching a junction at the Buttle Narrows. Turn right at the junction, heading over the bridge, to say on Highway 28.

Follow the road with Campbell Lake on your right for another approximately 15 km.

On your left, there will be a pullout to the parking area clearly marked for Lady Falls.

Google Map directions are here.