10km
Distance
150m
Gain
4.5h
Time
About this Trail
A rugged 10 km round-trip hike to Kennedy Falls, one of the North Shore's most impressive waterfalls. The unmaintained trail passes the Big Cedar -- a 600-year-old red cedar 4 metres wide -- through dense rainforest with 10+ creek crossings. Waterproof boots essential. Best in May for peak snowmelt.
Best Suited For
The Crowd
- 🔹Adventurous Hikers
- 🔹Experienced Hikers
- 🔹Waterfall Enthusiasts
- 📷Photographers
- 🌲Nature Lovers
- 🔹Trail Dogs
- 🔹Backcountry Seekers
The Occasion
- 🔹Adventure Hike
- 🔹Photography Outing
- 🔹Spring Snowmelt Visit
- 🔹Fitness Challenge
Highlights
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A rugged 10 km round-trip hike leading to the stunning Kennedy Falls and the massive 'Big Cedar' tree.
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The trail is a true forest adventure, with technical root sections, mud, and multiple creek crossings.
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Features the 600-year-old Big Cedar, one of the most impressive old-growth trees on the North Shore.
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A dog-friendly trail that offers a wilder, less groomed experience compared to nearby Lynn Canyon.
Route Details
An unmaintained trail through dense rainforest to Kennedy Falls. The route crosses 10+ creeks on slippery rocks, climbs over fallen logs, and navigates extensive root networks. Despite only 150m elevation gain, the terrain makes it moderate difficulty. The Big Cedar Tree (600+ years old, 4m wide) is a highlight at roughly the halfway point. Kennedy Falls is most spectacular in May during peak snowmelt.
The Route
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Mount Fromme parking lot km 0.0
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Trail enters forest km 0.5
transition from road to trail
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First major creek crossings km 2.0
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Big Cedar Tree km 3.5
600-year-old giant cedar
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Final creek crossings approaching falls km 4.5
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Kennedy Falls viewpoint km 5.0
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Return via same route km 10.0
Along the Way
Kennedy Falls — spectacular waterfall, most impressive during May snowmelt
Big Cedar Tree — 600+ year-old western red cedar, 4 metres wide, one of few to survive logging
Lush rainforest with ferns, moss, and towering trees
10+ creek crossings — adventurous and challenging
Wild, unmaintained trail — feels like true backcountry
Practical Tips
Best Times to Visit
Insider Tips
- 💡
Check creek levels before going — high water makes crossings dangerous
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The trail is rated 'hard' mostly because of length and creek crossings, not elevation
- 💡
Bring waterproof boots — your feet will get wet at creek crossings
What to Bring
Accessibility & Facilities
Falls most impressive in May (peak snowmelt).
Not Available
Not wheelchair accessible. Trail is unmaintained with mud, roots, fallen logs, and creek crossings.
History
Kennedy Falls is a remote waterfall in the Lynn Headwaters Regional Park backcountry. The trail follows old logging roads and creek beds through some of the North Shore's most pristine forest.
Source · metrovancouver.org
Location
Getting Here
🚌 Transit
Bus 210 to Mountain Highway at Coleman Street, then approximately 1 km walk north up Mountain Highway to the Mount Fromme parking lot trailhead.
🚗 Parking
Mount Fromme parking lot at the top of Mountain Highway -- WARNING: 3-hour time limit, insufficient for this hike (3.5-5 hours). Use Dempsey Road overflow parking instead. Free at both locations.
