Shannon Falls Provincial Park Squamish, British Columbia

About the Waterfall: The tumbling waters of Shannon Falls originate from Mount Habrich and Mount Sky Pilot. They rise 1105 feet above Highway 99, making it the third-highest waterfall in British Columbia.  

About the Park: Shannon Falls Provincial Park is a popular day-use destination that features numerous picnic tables for visitors to enjoy. The park offers several scenic trails, including routes that lead from the falls to the Sea-to-Sky Gondola and access to the renowned "Chief" trail in Stawamus Chief Park. Convenient bathroom facilities are located next to the gift shop, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and snacks.

About the hike: Shannon Falls trail is a 0.5-mile round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 147 feet.    The trail follows Shannon Creek as you wind through a forest of Western hemlock, Douglas Fir, and Western red cedar.  

We enjoyed strolling along the smooth path, listening to the water trickling over rocky boulders in the creek below.

In no time we arrived at the first viewing platform of the falls.

Fortunately, we arrived early in the morning, avoiding the crowds and giving us the opportunity to enjoy the falls in peaceful solitude.

Soon we were off again to get a closer look but not before climbing a few flights of stairs.

While climbing the stairs, I observed Mother Nature's handiwork: a new tree was sprouting from the stump of an older tree.

The views of the falls from the upper platform were impressive. However, it was unfortunate that the sky was a hazy gray due to the wildfires burning across BC.

We appreciated the views, but it was time to continue our journey to Whistler, BC. We made our way back down the stairs.

On the way down, a large stump drew my attention. The intricate details on the top of the stump revealed the history of this remarkable tree.

We wanted a little more exercise, so we took the trail to the Sea-to-Sky gondola before making our way to the parking lot.

On the way back to our car, I paused to take in the beautiful view of Shannon Falls. This hike is more about enjoying the scenery than getting exercise.