Takakkaw Falls | World Waterfall Database

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This waterfall has been surveyed, mapped and measured in person by the World Waterfall Database.

Takakkaw Falls is a moderately high volume waterfall along the unnamed stream flowing from the Daly Glacier in British Columbia's Yoho National Park. The falls drop a total of 992 feet in four distinct steps, first dropping over two narrow plunges hidden within the slot canyon at the top of the falls (neither of which can be seen from the base of the falls). The river then hurtles 853 feet over the side of the Yoho Valley wall, then cascading down a narrow flume-like stairstep for an additional 94 feet. The falls are frequently cited as dropping 1,248 feet (380 meters), but this seems to be a generalized overestimate (based on what, we are not certain). Some sources list a height of 1,650 feet as well, but this refers to the total change in elevation between the lake below the Daly Glacier and the Yoho River. It should be noted that our measurements of this waterfall were derived using both a laser and a GPS, and have a slightly wider margin of error than with a laser alone - perhaps as much as +/- 40-50 feet.

The falls are fed by the meltwater of the Daly and Niles Glaciers, as well as an unnamed lake below the Daly Glacier and several small glacial remnants. While the stream from the Daly Glacier is one of the largest produced by the Wapta Icefield, it doesn't appear to have ever been uniquely labeled. Though the stream does flow all year long, because of the cold temperatures in the winter, the volume is greatly reduced until the snow begins to melt. The falls are usually flowing the heaviest from July to September, specifically during the mid to late afternoon hours.

Takakkaw Falls possesses several unique features which set it apart in the world of waterfalls. First and foremost is the massive roostertail which is exhibited during heavier flow periods. As the river drops out of the slot canyon at the top of the main drop, it falls for about 75 to 100 feet before impacting on a protruding rock which forces the water to shoot outwards from the cliff face by as much as 150 feet. Additionally, at the top of the falls, the river drops into several sinks and karstic tunnels prior to falling over the main fall. These features cannot be seen, however, without climbing to the top of the 1000 foot cliff adjacent to the waterfall.

HISTORY AND NAMES

Takakkaw Falls is the Official name of this waterfall

Takakkaw is said to be a Cree word meaning Magnificent - which couldn't be any less appropriate for this particular waterfall. The exact date of naming isn't known, but as nearby Emerald Lake was discovered in 1882, the discovery and naming of this waterfall probably predates the onset of the 20th century.

Our thoughts

While its not a terribly unique waterfall, the powerful jet of water that shoots out from the cliff sets this one aside from many of the other large waterfalls around North America. Takakkaw Falls simply exudes power and though it isn't nearly the tallest waterfall in Canada, it is without question one of the world's elite cataracts.

Location and directions

Takakkaw Falls is located at the end of the Yoho Valley Road in Yoho National Park. The road and falls are heavily signed from Highway 1, and once on the right road, the falls can’t be missed. A caution to motorists – those planning on visiting the falls with a trailer or RV should plan on having an alternative method of transportation, because a pair of extremely sharp switchbacks in the road up the valley limits navigable vehicle lengths to about 25 feet.

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Takakkaw Falls is shown in the center. The 10 closest waterfalls within a 8km radius are shown as well (if any). Click any icon or see the list below for more information.

Additional Nearby Waterfalls

Name of Waterfall	Distance
Whiskey Jack Falls	0.88 mi / 1.41 km
Angel's Staircase Falls	1.38 mi / 2.21 km
Point Lace Falls	1.54 mi / 2.46 km
Yoho Gorge Falls	2.32 mi / 3.71 km
Laughing Falls	2.59 mi / 4.15 km
Michael Falls	2.68 mi / 4.29 km
Fairy Creek Falls	2.9 mi / 4.64 km
Marpole Falls	3.95 mi / 6.32 km
Twin Falls	4.11 mi / 6.58 km
Bath Glacier Falls	4.19 mi / 6.7 km

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Photography tips

Takakkaw Falls can be seen literally for miles around and there are numerous different compositions available.

Links to Additional Pictures

http://www.virtualguidebooks.com/BC/InteriorRockiesBC/Yoho/TakkakawStream_FS.html
http://www.panoramio.com/photo/10675814

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Takakkaw Falls British Columbia, Canada