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Steelhead Falls

Photo: Google Maps

Scenic Views · Fishing · British Columbia

Steelhead Falls

4.7 · 520 Google reviews

A short forest walk to a powerful waterfall near Hayward Lake in Mission, BC, with viewing platforms and a picnic area by the parking lot. The lot is small and fills on weekends.

Mission, British ColumbiaHayward Lake Reservoir Trail, Mission, V4SView: WaterfallAccess: 15–20 min each way (about 2 km return) from a small parking lot near Hayward LakeBest time: Year-round; spring and after rain for the strongest flow; weekdays for parkingFees: No trail fee notedFishing: Nearby Hayward Lake is open to angling with a BC licence under Region 2 rules; the falls themselves are for viewing.
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What visitors say

Steelhead Falls pours through a mossy old forest near Hayward Lake, north of Mission. Reviewers rate it as one of the better short waterfall walks in the Lower Mainland, with clear water and several unobstructed viewpoints, including an upper and lower deck.

From the parking area it's roughly 15 to 20 minutes each way, and some take up to 40 at a slower pace. Part of the route follows a narrow road before switchbacks lead down through the trees. It's well graded and easy to follow, with a few short descents that feel steeper on the way back up. Kids manage it well, and because it's low, the trail is usually snow-free all year.

There's a washroom and a few picnic tables just below the parking lot. The trail connects with the Hayward Reservoir trail, and Hayward Lake is a BC Hydro recreation area where you can fish under BC regulations and paddle a canoe. Adventurous visitors scramble down for a closer look at the falls, but stay on stable ground and be mindful of the forest.

Parking is the main problem: the lot holds only about 25 cars and fills on weekends, and parking on the road isn't advised. The turnoff is easy to miss, so navigate to the falls lot specifically. One visitor noted the washroom is meant for emergencies only.

Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 520 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.