For it's staggered steps, beautiful cascade effect and rocks spread throughout the river, Albion Falls is my favourite waterfall. On a beautiful day, grab a friend, date or canine companion for this hike!
Let's get started!
From the parking lot further from the waterfall, head towards the trail. The trail will lead you down a hill where there will be a fork, turn left here and hike towards the river.
Follow the trail upstream until you reach the waterfall. Once you get there, use the rocks as stepping stones to cross the river. As a heads up, some of the rocks are unstable. I've slipped and fell in a few times before.
If you're on the right side of the falls, head up to relax on the large rocks and enjoy the view. If you're feeling adventurous, follow the path to the second level of the falls. Take off your shoes and head into the water to cool off. Although, it can get pretty slippery because of the algae in the water.
Once you're back at the bottom, feel free to navigate yourself on the rocks to get around. Some of the larger rocks have fossilized fauna and shells on it.
When you're ready to leave, head to the left side of the falls. Head up the trail and up the stairs to get back to the road. Follow the road back to the parking lot.
Directions:
Exit on Stonechurch Road from Red Hill Valley Parkway. Turn right onto Stonechurch Rd. and then turn right onto Pritchard Rd. When you reach Mud St., there will be parking lots on either side. I usually turn left and park at the lot further from the falls. That's where the hiking trail is.
NOTES:
- There's two free parking lots: One closer to the falls and one closer to the trails.
- The trail is a bit more challenging because you'll need to climb over fallen trees and rocks.
- The hike takes about 30 minutes - 1 hour.
- If you don't feel like hiking, but still want to check out the falls. Park at the lot closer to the falls and follow the short trail downhill towards the falls. You'll still get the same awesome view of the falls.
- The trail can get pretty muddy and slippery during the spring or after a big rainfall.
- Check out the falls in the winter!
EDIT - 2017:
- The trails are now closed off. You can only see the falls from the top.
