Siffleur Falls Trail is a scenic hike in David Thompson Country that features waterfalls, Alberta’s longest pedestrian-only suspension bridge, and a beautiful boardwalk.
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Siffleur Falls Route Description
The first part of the trail is quite flat. Cross two bridges – including a cool suspension bridge – and long boardwalk, then gradually gain elevation as you hike through the forest. Soon, you come to the edge of a massive gorge and powerful falls. Keep away from the canyon’s edge and stay behind viewing platforms and railings as there’s a huge drop-off with rushing water below.
The kids found the hike easy and loved the bridge, boardwalk, and cute geocache near the falls (it’s guarded by a small, magical creature! Hopefully it’s still there when you go!). If you’d like to hike further, there are two more sets of falls. The second set of falls is 2.5 km past the first set, and the third set is hard to find due to a landslide, so I wouldn’t recommend it at this time.
After your hike, relax on the shores of Abraham Lake or try your luck fishing at Fish Lake! For great pie, visit the Miner’s Cafe in Nordegg.
Siffleur Falls Trail at a Glance
Trailhead: Siffleur Falls Trailhead, 65 km west of Nordegg (GPS Points: 52.050768, -116.412614)
*If driving from Nordegg, it is 1.7 km past Two O’Clock Creek Campground on the left side of the road.*
Distance: 8 km return (to 1st set of falls)
Elevation gain: 150 m
Difficulty: Easy
Geocaching: Yes
Washrooms: Pit toilets at trailhead
Stroller friendly: Yes, but there is one big hill.
Nearest Campground: Two O’Clock Creek Campground or random camping at Preacher’s Point. Please practice leave no trace.
Know Before You Go
- There have been fatalities at the falls. Stay behind the railings to stay safe!
- You are in bear country. See our Bear Safety Tips for Hikers & Backpackers to reduce the chance of seeing a bear (and what to do if you see one).
- Stay on the boardwalk to protect the sensitive ecosystem and pack out all trash. For more ways to reduce your impact, please read How to Leave No Trace When Hiking.
What to Bring
Disclosure: This section includes affiliate links through which I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting our small family business!
Good hiking boots and a windproof/waterproof shell are must-haves. Trekking poles are recommended (your knees will thank you when you’re older).
You should also carry The Ten Essentials including: water, extra food, extra clothes, a headlamp, a GPS/compass and map of the area, bug spray (this one contains 20% icaridin and will repel ticks), sunscreen (this one is safe for babies), and bear spray.
In spring and fall, traction devices such as Kahtoola Microspikes (Available from Amazon, MEC, and Breathe Outdoors), or Hillsound Trail Crampons (Available at Amazon, Hillsound, and Sport Chek) are recommended.
Fun Fact
Siffleur falls are named for the whistling sound marmots make (siffleur in French = whistling).
See our story Camping and Hiking in David Thompson Country for more fun things to do in the area.
More Alberta Road Trips
- Touring the Icefields Parkway With Kids
- 10 Banff Day Trips to Try This Summer
- 6 Bear-Free Alberta Road Trips
- Exploring the Cowboy Trail
- Peter Lougheed Provincial Park Recreation & Camping Guide
- William A. Switzer Provincial Park Recreation Guide
2 comments
You're welcome!! If you geocache, there's a cute cache near the falls that's guarded by a tiny gnome. Hopefully it's still there!!
This looks like a hike my kids would easily enjoy, thank for the info!
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