Tessa Falls Trail

Tessa Falls is a 0.9-mile out-and-back to a view of the Cascade River chutes near Lake Minnewanka. The mapped path runs about 0.44 mile one way through semi-open forest to the north bank; allow 30 to 60 minutes from the roadside start. This is an unsigned, unsanctioned route with unclear public access, so check that the approach and parking are allowed before setting out. I’d choose it only if you’re comfortable with that uncertainty and a rough finish.

The path begins at an unmarked pullout on Minnewanka Loop Road, near Cascade Fireroad. It rises and dips along a semi-open forested ridge for roughly ten minutes, then reaches the top of a steep Cascade River embankment. The last drop is short but awkward, and can be slippery or icy. The saved route ends at the north-bank viewpoint above the river.

The falls are a set of chutes on the far side of the river. From the north bank, you can look across at the rock face; a longer lens helps when the water is low. The area below the embankment is boggy. A local account mentions logs downstream that may sometimes span the river when dry, but that is an improvised crossing, not a dependable part of this route. Don’t plan the outing around crossing them.