Just south of Kaslo you will find one of the Kootenay's most dramatic waterfalls. And where some similar sights require a hardy hike, the good news is that this breathtaking plunging water is easily accessible by all.
Fletcher Falls is a stone’s throw from Kootenay Lake. The trail to the falls is a quick walk through a lush forest. After you take in pounding 50-foot falls from above, the trail winds down to the base of the creek where you can venture into a grotto and experience the spray.
Fletcher Falls has recently been included in the Eh Canada Travel Adventure Blog as one of the “10 best waterfalls you do not hear about.”
Once you feast on the flow of Fletcher Falls, you can also take in the spectacular views of Kootenay Lake which are part of the shoreline Fletcher Falls Recreation Site. Pack a lunch and breathe in the beauty of the main lake.
The self monitored wilderness campground along the lake can be used for tenting and day use picnicking. The sandy beach is popular with boaters on the main lake.
The actual trail down to the falls is a grade that can easily be tackled by young, old and everyone in between. The trail is wide at first and then narrows out to single track. The more adventurous can split off closer to the creek and falls to take in better views, but the trail gets a little more difficult to manage and is most often slippery.
The walk back to the parking area is a little more difficult, but still should be manageable for those in reasonable health.
If you are looking for some fantastic falling water, Fletcher Falls is not to be missed.
HOW TO GET THERE: Fletcher Falls is located about eight kilometres south of Kaslo on Highway 31. Look for Fletcher Frontage Road and turn towards the lake. At the north end of the road is a small marked parking area. From the parking area, the trail starts right after a yellow steel gate just north of the road.
WHILE YOU ARE THERE: Other great Kootenay attractions are in the immediate area. Ainsworth Hot Springs are located south of Fletcher Falls along Highway 31. To the north is Kaslo which is rich in history and natural awesomeness. You will find the SS Moyie historical site, cute shops and several eatery options.
TRAVEL DISTANCES TO KASLO: Nelson (69 km), Castlegar (113 km), Trail (139 km), Grand Forks (207 km) and Cranbrook (232 km).
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