Brandywine Falls: The 70-Meter Masterpiece of the Sea-to-Sky

If you’re driving between Squamish and Whistler, Brandywine Falls Provincial Park is the ultimate "low-effort, high-reward" pitstop. This spectacular 70-meter waterfall plunges over a sheer volcanic cliff into a turquoise bowl, offering one of the most cinematic views in the province. It’s a literal textbook example of the region's raw geology, with layered basalt columns and the iconic Black Tusk looming in the distance.

Parking Tips:

This is one of the busiest stops on Hwy 99. On summer weekends, the lot is usually full by 10:00 AM. If it’s full, do not park on the highway shoulder—you will be towed immediately.

The Experience: A Walk Through Volcanic History

The trail to the falls is a flat, scenic 1km round-trip that feels more like a stroll than a hike. You’ll cross a charming covered bridge over Brandywine Creek and a set of active railway tracks (look both ways!) before reaching the main event.

• The Main Platform: Perched right on the edge of the canyon, the first viewing platform gives you a dizzying, top-down perspective of the falls.

• The Second Lookout: Don't stop at the first platform! Continue another 2 minutes along the trail for a head-on view of the waterfall and a sprawling vista of Daisy Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Photo Pro Tips:

Late Spring/Early Summer for the highest water volume. For rainbows, arrive between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM when the sun hits the mist at the perfect angle.

Safety & "No-Go" Zones

• Stay Behind the Fence: You’ll see "social trails" leading to the cliff edge or the base. Do not follow them. The canyon walls are notoriously unstable, and hiking to the bottom is both illegal and dangerous due to frequent rockfall.

• Wildlife: Like all BC parks, this is bear country. Keep your dogs on a leash and your snacks packed away.

• The Train Tracks: These are active. Never linger on the tracks for photos; the "Sockeye Special" and freight trains move faster than they look.