Scenic Views · British Columbia
Christie Falls
A waterfall on Christie Creek in the hills behind Terrace Mountain, west of Kelowna, BC, reached by a short forest trail and a steep, roped descent to the base. Best in late spring.
What visitors say
Christie Falls drops into a rocky bowl on Christie Creek, tucked into the forest on the back side of Terrace Mountain above the Okanagan. Reviewers describe the moment the falls appear after the walk in as the payoff, with green growth all around and views across to Terrace Mountain.
The hike comes in two parts. The first is roughly a kilometre from the trailhead to the cliff edge, with small creek crossings and makeshift bridges, and one reviewer noted recent work clearing fallen trees. The second part drops steeply to the base of the falls using fixed ropes. You can stay at the top and still see the falls if the descent isn't for you.
People who go down find a rope swing and a rock wall that climbers use, with routes reviewers put at the harder end. It suits confident hikers and families with older kids who are comfortable on steep ground. Pack a lunch; one visitor wished they had brought more.
Timing matters. One visitor found the falls thin at the end of summer, then returned in late spring and saw them in full flow. The access road narrows to a single lane with blind corners and rough patches near the end, so drive slowly. Watch for the small sign at the turn, which is easy to miss.
Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 67 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.