Panther Falls Trail

Panther Falls Trail is a short out-and-back from the Big Bend pullout to the main waterfall viewpoint. Count about 0.5 mile (0.8 km) round trip, with roughly 50 metres (165 feet) of climbing on the return, and allow 30 to 40 minutes. It’s a good quick stop if you want to get close to a waterfall and don’t mind a steep walk down and back up.

At the large pullout, look for a subtle trail entrance at the southeastern edge. The path drops through forest on loose rock and dirt switchbacks, then levels beside a rock wall and reaches a junction. Follow the right-hand branch along the ridge toward Panther Falls; it eases downhill as the canyon opens. The left branch gives a partial view of Bridal Veil Falls and is a separate side trip. Return the way you came.

Water squeezes through a narrow opening in the rock and strikes a projecting crag before breaking into spray. The viewing area is small and unguarded, and spray can reach the path and camera lens. I’d stop at the main viewpoint rather than follow the separate steep scramble toward Nigel Creek; it isn’t part of this route and has loose, slippery footing.

The trail starts at the southeast edge of the large roadside pullout at Big Bend, about 400 metres north of the Big Bend viewpoint. There are no facilities at the pullout. Dogs are allowed, but keep them leashed and under control.