Planning a visit to the Kootenay National Park in Canadian Rockies? Undoubtedly, Numa Falls should be the first stop in your list. If you wish to witness Mother Nature at its finest then you need to add this impressive waterfall to your itinerary. It is bound to delight you with the stellar combination of interesting rock formations and splashing waters.
Basics: Numa Falls
Total Distance: 600m
Elevation gain: Negligible
Time: 15-30 mins
What to bring:
This is super short. All you need is your camera.
Facilities:
There are picnic benches & loos in the car park.
Dogs: Yes on leash
Difficulty: Short, Easy, perfect for all age-groups.
Location of Numa Falls
Numa Falls is situated near the Rockwall trailheads at the north end of Kootenay National Park. This is a 24km journey from the turning point on the Trans Canada Highway (1) towards the Banff-Windemere Highway (93). If you are in a mood for going on short road trips, then Numa Falls can be your perfect pick. You can reach it within 40 minutes from Banff and within 35 minutes from Lake Louise by car. You will find a small car parking space right next to the highway. Numa Falls is a few hundred meters walk from the parking point.
Can We Visit Numa Falls Now?
Yes, we can. Numa Falls was temporarily closed between 2019 and 2020. Currently it is open and can delight you with a well-maintained picnic area and brand new pedestrian bridge; perfect for taking pictures. You can enjoy an adrenaline rush while looking down at the churning waters below from the pedestrian bridge. Don’t miss out on the rainbow hues created by the rapidly churning waters.
Topography of Numa Falls
The rocks at Numa Falls look ravishing when you take a closer glance. The massive water currents have curved multiple potholes onto the limestone. Make sure to carry a camera for framing these marvels of nature for lifetime. You will also see an interesting banding that resembles a swirly marble.
Also, read about Marble Canyon: One of the Hidden Gems in BC
Having Picnics at Numa Falls
If you like having picnic siting in the lap of nature, then Numa Falls won’t disappoint. Bring you picnic hampers and enjoy food while basking at the bright blue Vermillion River. You can also enjoy the breath-taking view of the backside of Numa NW3. There are multiple restrooms and picnic benches near the parking spot. Although, you can bring your four-legged buddies, make sure they are on a leash. It’s important to note that the Numa Falls picnic park doesn’t have cell phone service. Don’t forget to download all important maps beforehand.
When Should You Plan a Visit
The best thing is that you can visit it throughout the year to enjoy the different shades of nature. Summer months between June to August will welcome you with lush vegetation and a cascading waterfall. You can expect fewer crowds in September and October. However, these two autumn months are perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Numa Falls transforms into a winter wonderland between December to February. Although access may challenge you, you will enjoy an enthralling visit with frost-clad scenery. Spring months between March and May are best for serene visits as new life emerges surrounding the landscape and the river flow accentuates.
Conclusion
This hidden gem is a geological intrigue despite its modest scale. Moreover, its charm lies in turquoise water, and rock-lined chute. Tall evergreen forests and Rockies in the background further enhance the appeal of this scenic falls.
