A visit to Chatterbox Falls is a journey to a magical place. You arrive expecting spectacular scenery. But something extraordinary happens, something dramatic, an experience both humbling and awesome. Few depart unmoved, unaffected, uninspired.
Entering the tranquil waters of the inlet, surrounded by a mile-high granite-walled-gorge, is entering a cathedral. Serenity. The tumbling, frothing falls, cascade down a sheer vertical drop, overpowering all other sound. Visitors speak in whispers in the presence of nature's overwhelming grandeur and might.
It is said that the melting spring snow creates sixty waterfalls. Although this number begins decreasing by mid-June, the falls remain a wonderment and Princess Louisa Provincial Marine Park has become one of the most well-known and most visited boating destinations in British Columbia. Be aware: during the summer's busiest season, mooring floats are limited to 72 hours.
The Inlet's calm water makes for good exploring by kayak, canoe, and dinghy. The park has campsites, hiking and walking trails and one might expect to see mountain goats, alpine meadows and native petroglyphs. Be judicious: keep to the marked trails for several reasons as some are extremely difficult. And, it is not unknown to run across black bear.
Snow and ice of winter cloak cliff, trees, dock and boats. What a spectacular sight.
Notes: You can access the park trails by docking alongside the park. Wooden dock and ramp to the shore. No electricity. Black, black nights. Trees reach to infinity.
e.b. kowal