Virginia Falls

Virginia Falls drops about 96 meters across a span of 259 meters over the South Nahanni River, creating two separate cascades divided by a limestone rock formation. The south segment falls steeply while the north segment bends before both sections rejoin below.

The waterfall took its name from Virginia Hunter, daughter of surveyor Fenley Hunter, who explored the region for Canada's Geological Survey in 1928. This naming marked one of the early European surveys of this remote area.

The Dene people call the falls Na'ili Cho, meaning 'big water falling down' in their language. This name reflects how Indigenous communities understood and connected with this natural landmark.

You can reach the falls only by chartered float plane from Fort Simpson or Fort Liard, landing at a waterdrome. A short hike follows the landing, and weather conditions should be considered since access depends on flying visibility.

The falls can be admired from multiple angles during the float plane journey, as aircraft glide slowly over the landscape before you land. This aerial view offers a perspective of the cascade that few other waterfalls in Canada provide.

Location: Northwest Territories

Elevation above the sea: 500 m

Height: 96 m

Width: 259 m

Part of: South Nahanni River

GPS coordinates: 61.60720,-125.73700

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:55