Scenic Views · British Columbia

Ione Falls

4.7 · 196 Google reviews

A roadside waterfall at the Ione rest area north of Nakusp, BC, with no hiking needed, plus picnic tables, a pit toilet and easy parking. A good leg-stretch on the drive through the Arrow Lakes.

Area K (The Arrow Lakes), British Columbia8156 BC-23, Central Kootenay K, BC V0G 1R0, CanadaView: WaterfallAccess: Roadside: steps from the Ione rest area pull-out on Highway 23 north of NakuspBest time: Spring and early summer for the strongest flow; sunset for the lightFees: FreeFishing: The falls drop into a small pool that isn't really a fishing spot; any angling here falls under BC Region 4 stream rules (spring closure, single barbless hook).

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What visitors say

Ione Falls pours down a layered rock face in a small alcove at a highway rest area north of Nakusp. Many visitors stopped for a break with no idea there was a waterfall there, and came away happy.

There's no hike. The falls are a few steps from a paved pull-out with plenty of parking and easy access from both directions of the highway. Reviewers mention picnic tables, garbage bins and a well-kept pit toilet. The car park and entrance are wheelchair accessible. It's free and dogs are welcome.

People use it for quick photos, a picnic or a sunset dinner on the way to Nakusp or Halcyon Hot Springs. On a warm day you can cool off by the water. Early morning or a weekday evening often means having the place to yourself, and one visitor said the rock glows gold at sunset.

The falls aren't huge and they're loud, so don't expect a quiet picnic right at the base. Spring and early summer bring the strongest flow, which tapers off later in summer.

Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 196 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.