Virginia Falls

The 96-meter-tall Virginia Falls spans 259 meters across the South Nahanni River, creating two separate cascades divided by a limestone rock formation.

The waterfall received its name from Virginia Hunter, daughter of explorer Fenley Hunter, who surveyed the region for the Geological Survey of Canada in 1928.

The Dene people named the falls Na'ili Cho, meaning 'big water falling down' in their language, reflecting their long-standing connection to this natural formation.

Visitors can reach the falls only by chartered float plane from Fort Simpson or Fort Liard, landing at a waterdrome followed by a short hike.

The waterfall face covers nearly 4 acres, with the south segment dropping 294 feet while the north segment creates a bend before rejoining below.

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: May 17, 2025 15:11