Elite Medium 22" Cascading Falls Kit
$1,999.99
- Pond-less Waterfall Kit: Disappearing waterfall with hidden underground reservoir
- Waterfall Width: 22" Elite Cascade Spillway
- Maximum Stream Size: Up to 16' long × 2'–4' wide
- Included Pump: 4,500 GPH
- Underground Reservoir: 3 Large Basin Matrix Boxes + Small Pump Canyon
- Complete Waterfall Kit: Includes pump, liners, spillway, plumbing & reservoir components
- Low-Maintenance Design: No traditional open pond required
- Rocks & Gravel: Not included
Elite Medium 22" Cascading Falls Kit
Create a natural-looking backyard waterfall without building a traditional pond. Our Elite Medium 22" Cascading Falls Kit combines a professional-grade waterfall box, powerful submersible pump, underground reservoir, and installation materials into one complete pond-less waterfall system.
Designed for larger backyard streams, sloped landscapes, and residential or commercial water features, this kit creates a continuous flow of water that disappears beneath decorative stone and returns to a concealed reservoir.
The 22-inch cascade provides a wider waterfall opening, while the coordinated pump and reservoir components allow you to build a more substantial waterfall than our smaller DIY kits.
22" Cascade waterfall width
Up to 16 ft. Published maximum stream length
4,500 GPH Included pump rating
3 Large Included Basin Matrix boxes
Why Choose the Elite 22" Pond-less Waterfall Kit?
A Natural Waterfall Without an Open Pond
Water flows down your landscaped stream and disappears through decorative rock into a hidden underground reservoir. You get the appearance and sound of a traditional waterfall without maintaining an exposed pond.
Contractor-Grade Cascade Falls Box
Our Elite 22" Cascade Box features a removable waterfall weir, Matala diffuser mat, and landscape lid. These components help distribute water across the spillway while allowing the box to blend into surrounding rockwork.
More Underground Water Storage
Three Large Basin Matrix boxes provide substantial water storage beneath the finished landscape. The Small Pump Canyon keeps the pump accessible while allowing water to move freely through the reservoir.
A Coordinated Waterfall System
The kit combines the main waterfall equipment, pump, liners, reservoir, and plumbing components. You can focus on designing the stream and installing the rockwork rather than selecting each primary component separately.
Is the Elite Medium 22" Kit Right for Your Landscape?
The current published specifications describe a stream up to approximately 16 feet long and 2–4 feet wide. This makes the kit a good choice for longer garden streams, backyard slopes, and landscape areas that benefit from a series of waterfall drops.
Actual stream length depends on your site's elevation changes, waterfall layout, liner placement, and surrounding rockwork. A taller waterfall or more complicated stream may require a shorter finished length.
Our installation documentation recommends a concealed reservoir layout approximately 50" wide × 44" long × 25" deep.
These measurements describe the underground basin area. Allow additional space for the stream, waterfall box, decorative boulders, and surrounding landscape.
Planning note: The current product listing specifies a 16-foot maximum stream, while an older installation diagram illustrates a 15-foot stream. We recommend planning conservatively and confirming your layout before excavation.
For smaller or larger waterfall systems, compare the available models in our Pond-less Waterfall Kits category.
What's Included in the Elite Medium 22" Waterfall Kit?
This complete kit includes the primary equipment and materials needed to build a recirculating waterfall with an underground water reservoir.
Waterfall & Circulation Equipment
- Medium 22" Elite Cascade Falls Box (PB1113)
- 4,500 GPH Blue Thumb Submersible Pump
- Pump Discharge Assembly with Check Valve
- 2" × 25' Black PVC Flex Pipe
- Installation Kit and Instructions
Underground Reservoir Components
- Small Elite Pump Canyon® (PB1168)
- 3 Large Basin Matrix Boxes (WMLG34)
- 10' × 10' PondGard EPDM Basin Liner
- 10' × 20' PondGard EPDM Stream Liner
- Protective Underliner
The linked Basin Matrix page includes multiple sizes. This kit uses three Large Matrix boxes.
Installation & Startup Materials
- Waterfall Installation Hardware
- Plumbing Connection Components
- Installation Instructions
- Muck Buster® Starter Water Treatment
What You'll Supply
- Decorative rocks and gravel
- Water for the underground reservoir
- Excavation and site-preparation materials
- Suitable electrical access
- Landscape plants and finishing materials, if desired
Important: Rocks and gravel are not included with the waterfall kit. Plan your stone selection and quantities before installation.
The linked component pages provide additional product information and replacement-part references. The main components listed above are included in the kit.
Elite Medium 22" Cascading Falls Kit Specifications
Kit SKU: PB1236
Product type: Complete pond-less waterfall kit
Waterfall width: 22"
Published max stream: 16' L × 2'–4' W
Cascade Box model: PB1113
Cascade Box dimensions: 20" × 33" × 14.25"
Cascade Box max flow: 5,500 GPH
Cascade Box inlets: Two 2" Spinweld fittings
Included pump rating: 4,500 GPH
PVC Flex Pipe: 2" diameter × 25' long
Pump Canyon: Small Elite PB1168
Pump Canyon dimensions: 15.5" × 18" × 22.5" H
Pump Canyon capacity: 16 gallons
Pump Canyon max flow: 7,500 GPH
Basin Matrix model: WMLG34 — Large
Matrix quantity: 3 Large boxes
Each Matrix size: 26.5" L × 16" W × 17.5" H
Each Matrix volume: 32 gallons nominal
Basin liner: 10' × 10' PondGard EPDM
Stream liner: 10' × 20' PondGard EPDM
Suggested basin width: 50"
Suggested basin length: 44"
Suggested basin depth: 25"
Flow clarification: The 4,500 GPH rating applies to the pump supplied with this kit. The standalone Cascade Box is rated for up to 5,500 GPH, while the Small Pump Canyon is rated for up to 7,500 GPH. These are separate component specifications.
Actual delivered pump flow depends on pumping height and plumbing resistance. The individual Matrix and Pump Canyon storage capacities should not be added together and treated as the completed basin's usable operating volume.
How the Pond-less Waterfall System Works
Unlike a traditional waterfall that returns water to an open pond, this system stores its water in a concealed underground reservoir.
Three Large Basin Matrix boxes create underground storage space inside the lined basin. A submersible pump sits inside the Small Pump Canyon, which provides access for inspection and maintenance.
The pump sends water through the included PVC flex pipe to the 22" Cascade Box at the top of the waterfall.
Inside the Cascade Box, a Matala diffuser mat helps distribute the water before it flows over the detachable weir and down the rock-lined stream.
Water eventually reaches the lower basin, disappears through decorative stone and gravel, and returns to the concealed reservoir.
The cycle continues as long as the pump is running and the reservoir has sufficient water.
Planning Your Waterfall Installation
The Elite Medium kit includes coordinated equipment, but construction still requires excavation, liner installation, plumbing connections, and careful rock placement.
1
Plan the Site and Stream
Choose a location where the waterfall can be enjoyed from your home or outdoor living area. Plan the stream route, changes in elevation, and underground reservoir location before excavation.
2
Excavate the Reservoir
Lay out the three Large Matrix boxes and Small Pump Canyon according to the installation diagram. The suggested reservoir measures approximately 50" wide × 44" long × 25" deep.
Remove sharp stones, roots, and debris that could damage the liner.
3
Install the Underliner and Basin Liner
Place the protective underliner into the excavation, followed by the 10' × 10' rubber basin liner. Position the Matrix boxes and Pump Canyon inside the lined reservoir.
4
Install the Pump and Plumbing
Position the pump and check valve assembly inside the Pump Canyon. Route the 2" PVC flex pipe toward the Cascade Box and connect the plumbing according to the installation manual.
5
Build the Stream and Position the Cascade Box
Shape the waterfall and stream with compacted soil and stone. Position the Cascade Box on a stable base and keep it level from side to side.
The installation manual recommends a slight forward tilt to direct water through the spillway.
6
Install the Stream Liner
Lay the 10' × 20' stream liner along the waterfall path, maintaining at least 6" of overlap where it meets the basin liner.
Follow the Cascade Box installation instructions when attaching the upper liner to the waterfall weir.
7
Complete the Rockwork
Arrange larger stones to create the waterfall drops and smaller gravel to complete the streambed and conceal the reservoir.
Keep the Pump Canyon accessible for maintenance.
8
Fill, Test, and Adjust
Fill the underground reservoir before operating the pump. Check water circulation, waterfall coverage, and stream edges.
Adjust rockwork and liner edges as necessary to keep water flowing within the intended channel.
Important Installation Considerations
Leave extra liner: We recommend retaining extra material along stream edges during installation. The manual recommends leaving approximately 12" folded into the landscape so future adjustments can be made if settling occurs.
Maintain proper overlap: The stream liner should overlap the basin liner by at least 6", with water flowing from the upper liner onto the lower liner.
Allow for elevation changes: Higher waterfall drops use more liner and can reduce the achievable stream length.
Provide safe electrical access: Install the pump using a properly grounded, GFCI-protected electrical supply and follow the pump manufacturer's instructions.
Contact your local utility locating service before excavation.
Optional Waterfall Accessories
Automatic Water-Level Control
The Small Pump Canyon includes a connection for a compatible automatic water-fill system. This optional accessory helps replace water lost through evaporation and splashing.
View the 1/2" Automatic Water Fill Kit
Sold separately. Confirm installation requirements and available water pressure before ordering.
Waterfall Lighting
Lighting can highlight the waterfall and surrounding rockwork after dark. Select equipment designed for outdoor water-feature applications.
Explore Water-Feature Lighting
Sold separately. Lighting is not included in the standard waterfall kit.
Compare Blue Thumb Pond-less Waterfall Kits
Different kits provide different spillway widths, pump capacities, liners, and reservoir configurations. Use the comparison below to find the best size for your landscape.
View All 8 Waterfall Kit Specifications
| Kit / SKU | Stream | Liner | Falls | Pump | Flex Hose | Matrix | Pump Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Mini 10" PB1373 |
4' × 1'–2' | 6' × 10' | 10" | 1,495 GPH | 1" × 7' | Canyon Matrix | Integrated |
| DIY Small 20" PB1854 |
Approx. 7' × 2'–4' | 8' × 15' | 20" | 1,980 GPH | 1.5" × 10' | Canyon Matrix | Integrated |
| Elite Small Cascade PB1229 |
6' × 1'–2' | 10' × 15' | 14" | 2,100 GPH | 2" × 25' | 1 Large | Small Canyon |
| Elite Small Spillway PB16KIT |
6' × 1'–2' | 10' × 15' | 16" | 2,100 GPH | 2" × 25' | 1 Large | Small Canyon |
| Elite Medium 22" PB1236 — THIS KIT |
Up to 16' × 2'–4' | 10' × 10' + 10' × 20' | 22" | 4,500 GPH | 2" × 25' | 3 Large | Small Canyon |
| Elite Medium Spillway PB28KIT |
15'–16' × 2'–4' | 10' × 10' + 10' × 20' | 28" | 6,000 GPH | 2" × 25' | 3 Large | Small Canyon |
| Elite Large Cascade PB30CFK |
Up to 17' × 4'–6' | 15' × 15' + 10' × 20' | 30" | 6,000 GPH | 3" × 25' | 3 Large + 3 Small | Large Canyon |
| Elite XL Cascade PB40CFK |
Up to 18' × 6'–7' | 15' × 15' + 15' × 20' | 40" | 7,800 GPH | 3" × 25' | 4 Large + 4 Small | Large Canyon |
Stream measurements are planning guidelines rather than guaranteed finished dimensions. Older installation guides and current product listings differ slightly for some models. Confirm sizing when designing near a kit's stated maximum.
Care, Maintenance & Winter Preparation
Routine Waterfall Maintenance
Our pond-less waterfall systems require less routine care than traditional open ponds, but the pump and reservoir still need occasional maintenance.
- Monitor the reservoir water level, especially during hot weather.
- Remove leaves and debris that could redirect water outside the stream.
- Inspect and clean the pump intake as needed.
- Check the Cascade Box diffuser mat and rinse accumulated debris.
- Inspect tubing and plumbing connections periodically.
- Use water treatments according to their instructions.
Winter Care
In freezing climates, ice can redirect water outside the lined stream and lower the underground reservoir level.
If shutting down for winter, remove and clean the pump, follow its storage instructions, and protect it from freezing.
Our seasonal maintenance guide recommends leaving the underground reservoir at least half full rather than draining it completely. This helps reduce the risk of movement during freeze-and-thaw cycles.
Review the complete winterization guide before shutting down the system.
Product Resources & Installation Documents
Use these official Blue Thumb resources when planning, installing, or maintaining your waterfall.
Elite Cascading Falls Kit Installation Manual (PDF) Cascade Box, Pump Canyon & Matrix Installation Guide (PDF) Pond-less Waterfall Maintenance & Winterization (PDF) Basin Matrix Assembly Guide (PDF) 22" Cascade Box Vault CAD Drawing (PDF) 22" Cascade Box Lid CAD Drawing (PDF) 22" Cascade Weir CAD Drawing (PDF) Small Pump Canyon CAD Drawing (PDF) Blue Thumb Warranty Information (PDF)
Component Warranty Coverage
Our Blue Thumb-engineered plastic components, including eligible Cascade Falls Boxes and Pump Canyons, carry a lifetime manufacturer's warranty against qualifying manufacturing defects for the original purchaser.
The included submersible pump has separate manufacturer warranty coverage based on its specific model and pump family.
Warranty coverage is subject to the manufacturer's published terms, proper installation, and applicable exclusions. The entire kit should not be represented as having a lifetime warranty.
Questions About Your Pond-less Waterfall Project?
Not sure whether the Elite Medium 22" Cascading Falls Kit is the right size for your landscape? Our Sales and Technical Team can help you review stream dimensions, reservoir requirements, pump sizing, and installation considerations before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pond-less waterfall?
A pond-less waterfall is a recirculating water feature that stores water in an underground reservoir rather than an exposed pond. Water flows down a constructed stream, disappears beneath decorative gravel, and returns to the hidden reservoir.
How long can the stream be with the 22" Cascading Falls Kit?
The current product listing specifies a maximum stream approximately 16 feet long and 2–4 feet wide. An older installation diagram shows a 15-foot stream. Actual length depends on terrain, elevation changes, and liner placement. We recommend confirming your layout before planning near the maximum.
Does the kit include rocks and gravel?
No. The kit includes the primary waterfall equipment, pump, Pump Canyon, Basin Matrix boxes, rubber liners, protective underliner, plumbing, and installation materials. Decorative rocks and gravel are purchased separately.
How large is the underground water reservoir?
Our installation documentation recommends a basin layout approximately 50" wide × 44" long × 25" deep. The reservoir contains three Large Basin Matrix boxes and a Small Pump Canyon. These dimensions are for the hidden reservoir, not the entire stream and waterfall.
Can I build multiple waterfall drops with this kit?
Yes. You can arrange larger stones to create a series of waterfall drops along the stream. However, taller drops use additional liner and increase the pumping height. A more elaborate design may require a shorter stream or additional planning.
Can I install the Elite Medium waterfall kit myself?
Yes, if you are comfortable with excavation, liner installation, plumbing connections, and landscape construction. However, this is a substantial project with a larger reservoir and longer stream than the smaller DIY kits. Follow the official installation manual and consider professional assistance when appropriate.
Can I add an automatic water-fill system?
Yes. The Small Pump Canyon includes a fitting for a compatible automatic water-fill system. This optional accessory can help replace water lost through evaporation and splashing. The automatic water-fill kit is sold separately.
Does the pump deliver 4,500 GPH at any waterfall height?
No. The supplied pump is rated at a maximum flow of 4,500 GPH. Actual water delivery depends on vertical lift, plumbing resistance, and the installed configuration. The flow reaching the Cascade Box will generally be lower than the pump's maximum rated flow.
Can I leave my pondless waterfall running during winter?
Winter operation requires careful monitoring. Ice can redirect water outside the lined stream and reduce reservoir levels, potentially damaging the pump. If you shut down the system, follow our winterization guide and the pump manufacturer's storage instructions.
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