NOTE: These are HDR photographs, which enhances both colour and tone.
Waterfall Detail: Third Vault Falls is located at the confluence of mountain ridges that rise up precariously from the ravine. The area is remote and rugged. The falls drops into an amphitheater of rock, almost cloistering the rushing water as it drops into the basin. From the top of the falls looking out over the rim is an awesome rush of excitement. The waterfall is nestled by large hardwood and softwood trees that maintain moisture rich air. When the late afternoon sun penetrates the forest, lighting up the ravine, the brook sparkles, the waterfall comes to life as the water dances over the rock face, and it is easy to understand why it is so popular.
Although the guide information at the trailhead states 7.3 km round trip it feels more like double this length when you consider the steepness of the trail into the ravine and rock hopping required to find the best vantage point for viewing the falls. The trail is well maintained, but may be closed in a wet season. The last bit of the hike leads to a steep declining trail, filled with rocks and switchbacks alike. Near the ravine, rushing water and the sound of the waterfalls can be heard from a distance. The moisture-rich air from the cool waters of the Bay of Fundy influences the landscape. This influence is evident deep in the basin of the ravine.
Visit Detail: This is our third waterfall of the day and our energy is beginning to ebb. The trail to Third Vault meanders through a mixed hardwood and softwood forest. Many small brooks, gathering water from wetlands further up the ridges accompanied us along the way eventually making way to the ravine further on. We met several groups of hikers on their way back from falls. All bubbling with excitement of the waterfall and this lifted our enthusiasm to pickup the pace. As we began the decent into the ravine we decided to head toward the sound of the water to our left.
This track led directly to the brook where we emerged unknowingly up stream from the waterfall. Unsure of its exact location we decided to head down stream until it dropped completely out of view. The sheer mountain ridge opposite the waterfall was all that could be seen. At the crease in the ridge we found ourselves looking straight down into the ravine 20 metres below. Watching the brook plunge downward, crashing into the rocks below was just awe inspiring.
Tracking up and over the ridge we eventually made our way down into the ravine, where we looked directly into the gorge that wraps the falls. We are both totally captivated by this amazing waterfall. Our intention was to spend 30 minutes but this stretched to almost 60 minutes. Dusk was slowly creeping through the forest as we hiked out of the ravine. Entering the parking lot near darkness, two adventurers were both elated with our day of waterfalling as well as weary.