Visit Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park in the southern portion of the province. Plan to spend part of a day by this soft waterfall and enjoy hiking through the 79-acre (32-hectare) park. The falls got its name from the appearance of the flowing water as a sheer lacy veil.
The 400-foot (122-metre) falls were used to generate electricity early in the last century. Look for the remnants of the power generator’s foundation. Trace the history of this park to its early form as a First Nations settlement in the 1700s. It was called Popkum, which refers to a type of fungi known as a “puff ball” that is indigenous to the area.
Look up at the tall stands of hemlock, cedar and maple that filter sunlight on the abundant ferns below. Hike along the trail for 10 to 15 minutes and arrive at an observation platform at the foot of the falls, one of the highest in Canada. Mount Cheam dominates the area, rising 6,910 feet (2,107 metres) above sea level.
Stay on the viewing platform to view the falls in the serene surroundings. Going closer than the platform is prohibited and trespassers can face a fine if caught. Be aware that during colder months the park is closed, as icy conditions near the falls make the area hazardous.
Make the trip an even more enjoyable family outing by combining it with a visit to Bridal Falls Waterpark, a nearby water slide park with dinosaurs as the theme. Stay overnight at the campsite and enjoy the park’s pool.
Discover Bridal Veil Falls 10 miles (16 kilometres) east of Chilliwack on the way to Harrison Hot Springs. The natural beauty and serenity of the falls in its forest location are worth a stopover.
