Parking is close to the geocache in one of two gravel lots at Cliff Park.
Cliff Park
The Cliff Falls area of Kanaka Regional Park in Maple Ridge is a hidden gem, with a pleasant hike, nice views of two waterfalls, no car noise, construction noise or city noise to disturb you as you search for a bit of forgotten family history.
From the parking lot at the west end of the park you can follow the scenic canyon trail along Kanaka creek all the way to the Bell Irving Fish Hatchery.
The park is a great location for families to spend a day in the outdoors any time of the year.
Steep canyon walls mark the area as the Kanaka Creek meanders its way to the Fraser River. It is, therefore, understandable that many people think it's these cliffs that gave the park its name.
This is not the case.
The land was a gift from Arnold and Nancy Cliff, who originally purchased all the property from the corner of 116th and 256th south to Kanaka creek and west all the way to the falls.
At some point they subdivided and sold off a large lot at the south corner of 256th and 116th. The Kanaka Lodge, a home for the elderly, was built on this lot
The remaining parcel of land owned by the Cliffs was donated to the parks board, and it is this land that makes up a large portion of what is now Cliff Falls Park - an important part of Kanaka Creek Regional Park. Why or when the Cliffs originally bought this property is unknown.
Cliff Plaque in the park
In 1980 a plaque was placed in the park to commemorate the Cliff family for their generous gift. Visit the plaque by walking down the trail and crossing the bridge over one of the creek's arms, and immediately turn left uphill towards the washrooms. You'll pass by the cairn as you do so.
Once there, don't forget to take in the beauty of the two falls, and you will want to continue to explore the trails and enjoy the calm beauty of the park.