If for some reason, you get to be around Houston, British Columbia, or just driving by on Highway 16, and are looking for a quick hike to a beautiful and refreshing waterfall, this is it.
Getting There
Byman Falls aren’t actually in Houston, but are on the way to it if you’re taking Highway 16 west or leaving Houston on Highway 16 east. The turn off is about 20km away, and the waterfalls are around 29km away.
Between Houston and Topley, there is a short road that leaves and comes back to the highway called Perow Loop Road. It appears correctly on Google Maps. From this road, there is a gravel backcountry road called Jarman Rd, which later randomly turns to Perow Forest Service Road.
Continue on this gravel road for about 5 kilometres; there will be markers. If you get to what seems like a major intersection, you have gone just a little too far. The hike starts just before that intersection on the right side. It is marked but easy to miss.
There is some space for parking right off the gravel road in front of the trailhead but there is plenty of space further up by the intersection. Don’t leave your car on the road.
The Hike
The best part of it is that it is short, very short, however it is all down hill and may require some bushwhacking.
Enter the woods where it is marked as in the picture above and the trail will go to the left. You basically need to get down to the canyon and the trail will zig zag down.
The trail is very steep and even though it is short, it could be unsafe when wet, and let’s remember that you will need to come back up it. Anyone with bad knees should avoid it.
Once you get to the canyon head to left, going against the current. This area can be very slippery with fallen trees in the way.
I had to crawl under a tree and it was easier to walk in the water for a bit. You will have to cross the water, and it isn’t very deep. Make your way up and to the other side.
Shortly you will find yourself facing a waterfall with a refreshing swimming hole to enjoy.
This is a spectacular place to hang out and splash on a warm day or if you want just a quick adventure.
Distance: Only 300 meters.
Elevation: 70m or so. Not entirely sure but not too bad.
Time: You can do it in an under an hour if you wish.
Difficulty: Easy.
Season: June to October.
Dog Friendly: Yes.