Nairn Falls has an incredible rich geological history of water, glaciers and volcanic islands.
It’s hard to believe that through time this spot has transitioned from a seashore into a mountainous area.
A sign at the Nairn Falls viewpoint explains the history of the geological changes at Nairn Falls.
Nairn Falls Hikes
There are three hiking trails at Nairn Falls Provincial Park. The terrain is very steep in many areas.
If travelling with children, please use extra caution.
Weather can change quickly. Dress in layers, wear weatherproof clothing, and good sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots with good non-slip grip.
The at-risk species of the Northern Rubber Boa live in this area in rock piles, fallen trees and woody debris. Sightings are rare.
See an image of the Northern Rubber Boa.
1. Nairn Falls Hike
The 1.5 km Nairn Falls trail leaves from the main day use parking lot. Allow at least one hour round-trip to view the 60-metre-high falls.
Take your time and stay within the boundaries of the fenced off areas.
Watch your footing as there are many steep banks above the fast-flowing, very cold, emerald green waters of the Green River. The trail has lots of raised tree roots and rocks.
Portions of the trail follow the same historic route carved out by the Lil’wat Nation and early pioneers on their way to Mount Currie.
Find out more about the history and the culture of the Lil̓wat7úl people.
As you hike through the forest look for a variety of trees: western red cedar, western hemlock, paper birch, western flowering dogwood, and coastal Douglas-fir.
The western flowering dogwood is in bloom from April and May. The dogwood is British Columbia’s provincial flower emblem.
When you reach the falls look for the pothole erosion made by rushing waters moving in a circular motion.
Discover 15 of the best waterfalls in BC
Nairn Falls hike is high above the fast-flowing Green River.
Nairn Falls hike is a rugged trail of exposed rock and tree roots.
Nairn Falls hike is shaded by a canopy of trees on portions of the route through the woodlands.
Enjoy the mossy woodlands of the Nairn Falls hike.
The rugged hike to Nairn Falls in Nairn Falls Provincial Park near Pemberton.
The fast-flowing emerald green waters of Green River in Nairn Falls Provincial Park near Pemberton.
View towards the falls. Nairn Falls hike is above the fast-flowing above Green River.
The fast-flowing Green River as seen from the Nairn Falls hike.
2. One Mile Lake Hike
The trail to One Mile Lake leaves from the upper northeast end of the campground between campsite 91 and 92.
This trail is part of the Sea to Sky Trail.
Download a complete map of suggested routes in the Pemberton area for hiking, biking, and horse trails.
Swimming at One Mile Lake is one of the best things to do near Nairn Falls Provincial Park, Whistler and Pemberton. Photo Credit: C. Cindric
3. Coudre Point Hike
The short Coudre Point loop hike is accessed from the campground near campsite 17 and finished near campsite 47.
Nearby Activities for Nairn Falls
There are numerous activities to access in the Whistler and Pemberton Valley area. Below are just a few adventures to try on your visit.
One Mile Lake
One Mile Lake is the closest swimming area to Nairn Falls.
The lake offers a sandy beach, a picnic area and an easy 1.45 km hiking route around the stunning lake.
The lake is located just off Highway 99, 2 km north of Nairn Falls Provincial Park, heading towards Pemberton.
Swimming at One Mile Lake is one of the best things to do near Nairn Falls Provincial Park, Whistler and Pemberton. Photo Credit: C. Cindric
Jet Boat Tours
Take a jet boat tour down Green River to Nairn Falls. The ‘Green River Thriller’ one-hour tour leaves from The Meadows at Pemberton Golf Course.
Traverse the Green River rapids, see snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, the protected Green River Wetlands and watch for a variety of wildlife on the route.
Whistler Jet Boating is the only authorized company to operate in Nairn Falls Provincial Park. Tours run from May to September.
The ‘Green River Thriller’ river tour will take you on the Green River to the base of Nairn Falls. Photo Credit: Whistler Jet Boating
Horseback Riding
Enjoy an outdoor wilderness experience horseback riding through the backcountry of the Whistler Pemberton area.
Copper Cayuse Outfitters offers a variety of horseback adventures to suit every skill level.
Explore the backcountry of the Pemberton Whistler area on horseback. Photo Credit: Copper Cayuse Outfitters
Pemberton and Whistler Camping at Nairn Falls
Nairn Falls Provincial Park campsite provides easy access to explore the Pemberton Valley and Whistler area.
The campsite has more than 92 campsites and is open from early May until the end of September.
Check here to reserve a campsite.
Wildlife Safety
Do not feed or approach wildlife and stay at least 30 meters away from all animals.
This area is well known for bear activity from April through November.
Be prepared. Pets must be on a leash at all times. Carry bear spray and make sure you know how to use it.
Find out more about avoiding bear encounters.
Parks Canada says to keep a minimum of 10 bus lengths away from bears, cougars and wolves. Read more about wildlife safety on the Parks Canada website.
Getting to Nairn Falls Provincial Park
The route from Vancouver along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway to Nairn Falls Provincial Park will take approximately two hours and 10 minutes one way.
The park is located about 25 minutes north of Whistler on Highway 99.
Pemberton is located 5 minutes north of Nairn Falls Provincial Park.
Top things to do Sea to Sky Highway, one of the most scenic drives in North America
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Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, a travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National PD Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW & NATJA.
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