Lineham Falls Trail

This moderate out-and-back climbs beside Lineham Creek to a signed viewpoint below Lineham Falls, then returns the same way. The best-supported route estimate is about 8.4 km (5.2 mi) return, taking roughly three hours with a steady 350 m climb. Parks Canada’s day-hike overview rounds the return distance to 9 km; the mapped corridor and detailed route descriptions support about 4.2 km each way to the signed end. A longer, roughly 10.2 km version follows a rough extension beyond the sign toward the falls and is not included here.

The route begins on a broad gravel path under trees. Around the first kilometre the valley opens, with views toward Mount Lineham and Mount Blakiston. Near 2 km the grade eases briefly before the path re-enters forest and crosses several creek beds. After about 3 km it opens again for the first distant look at the falls, then descends across an avalanche runout and follows Lineham Creek. Around 3.5 km, an optional short spur drops toward a small series of cascades beside the creek. The main trail makes one final steep climb and ends at a sign near 4.2 km. Expect the return to retrace the climb as a sustained descent.

The maintained route stops at a viewpoint below the tall waterfall rather than reaching its base. The falls spill over a layered cliff above the creek valley, with Mount Lineham and Mount Blakiston framing the surrounding basin. For a useful photograph, include part of the cliff or nearby trees; they give the waterfall scale and keep the setting recognizable.

The lower trail passes through forest affected by the 2017 Kenow wildfire, then reaches greener, denser woods higher in the valley. The open sections expose hikers to sun, while creek-bed crossings and the avalanche runout can make footing uneven. Snow and avalanche conditions can affect the route outside the main summer hiking season. Dogs are allowed on park trails when leashed and under control.

From Waterton townsite, drive about 9 km along Akamina Parkway; the signed trailhead is on the right when leaving town. The route in this guide ends at the official “Trail Ends” sign. The faint continuation toward the falls involves loose, exposed terrain and is not a maintained part of the hike; turn around at the sign unless you have independently assessed that off-trail terrain and conditions.