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Third Vault Falls: Fundy's Majestic Cascade

Hike through Acadian forests to discover Fundy National Park's tallest waterfall, a 16-meter cascade into a rocky amphitheater.

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Third Vault Falls, the highest waterfall in Fundy National Park, is a stunning 16-meter cascade nestled within a rocky amphitheater. The moderate to strenuous 7.4 km hike to reach the falls is a rewarding experience through a mixed Acadian forest, culminating in a unique stream-bed walk to the base of the falls.

A brief summary to Third Vault Falls

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes with ankle support for the rocky and potentially slippery terrain.
  • Be prepared to walk in water during the last section of the trail; consider water shoes or shoes you don't mind getting wet.
  • Visit during the early morning or golden hour for quieter experience and beautiful lighting.
  • Bring hiking poles for added stability on steep declines and slippery rocks.
  • Check the trail conditions before you go, especially during winter months, and wear ice grips if necessary.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the Fundy National Park Visitor Centre near Alma, head uphill on Route 114. After 7.4 kilometers, turn right onto Laverty Road. During the summer, continue 1 kilometer to the Third Vault Falls trailhead parking area. In winter or early spring, the gate on Laverty Road may be closed, park at the road's start. Park entry fees are charged from mid-May to mid-October; $9.00 CAD for adults.

  • Walking

    From the parking area on Laverty Road, the Third Vault Falls Trail is well-marked. Follow the trail for approximately 3.7 kilometers (7.4 km return), descending gradually into the valley. The final section involves navigating the rocky streambed of Upper Vault Brook to reach the falls. Be prepared for slippery conditions and potential stream wading.

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Discover more about Third Vault Falls

Third Vault Falls is a perennial favorite destination within Fundy National Park, New Brunswick, offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and invigorating outdoor activity. The falls themselves are an impressive 16 meters (52 feet) high, plunging down a rocky ravine into the Upper Salmon River. The surrounding high cliffs create a small but interesting space to explore. The journey to Third Vault Falls is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. The Third Vault Falls Trail is a 7.4 km (4 km blue singletrack) return trip that meanders through a diverse Acadian forest of spruce, birch, and maple. The well-marked trail presents a mix of terrain, with a mostly flat and wide path for the initial section that gradually descends. The last 20% of the hike becomes more challenging, involving a steep decline with some questionable footing and exposed roots and rocks. One of the most unique aspects of the Third Vault Falls Trail is the final approach to the falls, which requires entering Upper Vault Brook. Hikers must navigate a rocky streambed, sometimes walking on slippery, wet rocks or wading through shallow water. Trail markers painted on the rocks guide the way. The effort is well worth it, as the reward is a breathtaking view of Third Vault Falls cascading down the rocks. While the pool at the base of the falls may be inviting, swimming is not always possible, especially during colder months. The trail can be icy and treacherous in winter, so appropriate footwear with cleats or crampons is essential.

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