Elite Large 30" Cascading Falls Kit
$2,899.99
- Waterfall Width: 30"
- Maximum Stream Size: 17' Long x 4'-6' Wide
- Complete Pond-Less Waterfall Kit - Includes major installation components
- 6,000 GPH IllumiFlow Pump Included
- Underground Reservoir System Included - Large Pump Canyon and Basin Matrix
- Low-Maintenance Pond-Less Design - No exposed pond required
- Rocks and Gravel: Not Included
Blue Thumb Elite Series | Complete Pond-less Waterfall Kit
Build a Natural-Looking Waterfall Without an Open Pond
Create the sights and sounds of a flowing stream with our Elite Large 30" Cascading Falls Kit. This complete pond-less waterfall system combines a 30-inch cascade spillway, a powerful 6,000 GPH pump, and a hidden underground reservoir to create a natural-looking waterfall that disappears into the landscape.
Designed for larger backyard waterfalls and professional landscape installations, the kit provides the core equipment needed to build a recirculating stream while avoiding the routine upkeep of an open garden pond.
30" Waterfall Spillway
17' × 4'–6' Maximum Approximate Stream
6,000 GPH Included IllumiFlow Pump
3" × 25' Included PVC Flex Hose
Why Choose the Elite Large Cascading Falls Kit?
A Wider, Natural-Looking Waterfall
The 30-inch Elite Cascade Falls Box creates a broad waterfall entry point that can be incorporated into a winding rock stream, sloped landscape, or larger backyard water feature.
No Exposed Pond Required
Water returns to a concealed underground reservoir. You get the movement and sound of a waterfall without maintaining an exposed fish pond.
Coordinated Installation Components
The spillway, pump, Pump Canyon, reservoir matrix, liner, and plumbing are supplied together, reducing the need to source the major system components separately.
Is This the Right Size for Your Landscape?
Our Large 30" kit is designed for an approximate maximum stream measuring 17 feet long and 4–6 feet wide. Actual stream dimensions depend on the terrain, waterfall height, stream shape, and liner layout.
A taller waterfall or more complicated stream path can reduce the length achievable with the included liner. Plan the complete water path and underground reservoir before excavating.
Need a wider feature? Compare our Elite X-Large 40" Cascading Falls Kit . For a narrower installation, consider our Elite Medium 22" Cascading Falls Kit .
What's Included in Your Kit?
Our Elite Cascading Falls Kit includes the major components needed to build the waterfall, underground reservoir, and recirculating plumbing system.
30" Elite Cascade Falls Box
The visible waterfall outlet distributes incoming water across a 30-inch spillway.
- 30" waterfall spillway
- Landscape Lid for concealment
- Black Matala diffuser mat
- Detachable waterfall weir
- Factory-installed plumbing fittings
Large Elite Pump Canyon®
A protective underground pump vault provides access to the submerged pump while allowing water to enter from the surrounding reservoir.
- Large Elite Pump Canyon
- Removable access lid
- One-piece molded construction
- Automatic water-fill connection provision
IllumiFlow® 6,000 GPH Pump
The included submersible pump circulates water from the underground reservoir to the waterfall box.
- IllumiFlow 6000 pump
- Maximum rated flow: 6,000 GPH
- Pump discharge assembly
- Check valve
Underground Basin Matrix
The matrix blocks create open underground water-storage space beneath the finished rock surface.
- 3 Large Basin Matrix boxes
- 3 Small Basin Matrix boxes
- Stacked reservoir configuration
Liner and Plumbing
The liner and plumbing connect the waterfall to its underground recirculating reservoir.
- 15' × 15' PondGard rubber basin liner
- 10' × 20' PondGard rubber stream liner
- Protective underliner
- 25 feet of 3" black PVC flex hose
- Pump discharge and plumbing fittings
Installation and Startup Supplies
Additional materials help with system assembly, sealing, and initial water treatment.
- Installation instructions
- PVC glue
- Black expanding waterfall foam
- 8 oz. Pond Cleaner
- Muck Buster starter treatment
What Will You Need Separately?
Rocks and gravel are not included. You will need to supply the stone used to build the waterfall, shape the stream, and cover the underground reservoir.
Site excavation, suitable electrical access, water for filling, and any required site-specific construction materials or services are also your responsibility.
Optional upgrade: Our Hudson Automatic Water Fill Kit - PB1342 can be added to a compatible Pump Canyon installation to replace water lost through evaporation and splash. This accessory is sold separately.
Technical Specifications
Kit SKU: PB30CFK
Kit series: Elite Large Cascading Falls
Spillway width: 30 inches
Maximum stream: Approx. 17' L × 4'–6' W
Cascade box: Elite 30" Cascade Falls Box - PB1120
Cascade box dimensions: 20" × 41" × 14.25"
Pump model: IllumiFlow 6000 - PB1748
Maximum pump flow: 6,000 GPH
Pump maximum head: 28.5 feet
Pump power: 521 watts listed; varies with head pressure
Pump cord: 25 feet
Pump Canyon: Large Elite - PB1175
Pump Canyon dimensions: 24" × 27.75" × 31.5"
Reservoir matrix: 3 Large + 3 Small Basin Matrix boxes
Basin liner: 15' × 15' PondGard rubber liner
Stream liner: 10' × 20' PondGard rubber liner
Plumbing: 3" × 25' black PVC flex hose
Basin layout guide: Approx. 62" W × 42" L × 34" D
Stream measurements are approximate planning limits, not guaranteed finished dimensions. The basin layout measurements come from our Elite Cascading Falls installation guide. Final excavation dimensions and water storage requirements depend on the completed design.
Understanding the Underground Reservoir
Unlike a traditional pond waterfall, this pond-less system stores its circulating water below the finished landscape. The reservoir consists of a waterproof liner, Basin Matrix blocks, and the Large Pump Canyon.
The three large matrix boxes are positioned beneath the three small matrix boxes in the recommended large-kit configuration. Together with the Pump Canyon, they preserve underground storage space while supporting the surrounding rockwork.
Our installation diagram recommends a starting basin layout of approximately 62 inches wide, 42 inches long, and 34 inches deep. Use the official installation guide to confirm orientation, excavation, and liner placement before digging.
How the Pond-less Waterfall Works
Water collects in the hidden underground reservoir. The IllumiFlow pump, protected inside the Pump Canyon, moves water through the 3-inch PVC flex hose to the Elite Cascade Falls Box.
The cascade box distributes water across the spillway, allowing it to travel down the rock-lined stream. At the bottom, the water filters through the rock surface into the underground basin, where the process begins again.
Planning and Installation
This is a substantial landscape installation involving excavation, liner placement, plumbing, stonework, and electrical access. Homeowners with suitable experience may install the kit themselves, while contractors can use the included components as the foundation for a custom-designed waterfall.
Choose the Location and Plan the Stream
Determine the waterfall location, planned stream shape, and underground basin placement. Confirm suitable water and GFCI-protected electrical access. Contact your local utility-locating service before digging.
Excavate and Prepare the Reservoir
Lay out the matrix boxes and Pump Canyon, then excavate the basin to the required dimensions. Remove sharp objects and install the protective underliner followed by the rubber basin liner.
Install the Matrix and Pump Canyon
Assemble and position the three large and three small matrix boxes with the Large Pump Canyon. Follow the basin layout diagram for proper placement and orientation.
Position the Cascade Box and Connect Plumbing
Prepare a stable, compacted base at the top of the waterfall. Position the 30-inch cascade box, install the pump in its vault, and connect the included discharge assembly and PVC flex hose. Follow the installation instructions for leveling and sealing the waterfall box.
Construct the Waterfall and Stream
Extend the stream liner, overlap it correctly with the basin liner, and secure it to the cascade box. Position decorative boulders and smaller stone to direct water along the intended path.
Fill, Test, and Finish
Fill the underground reservoir before operating the pump. Confirm proper circulation, check for water escaping the liner, and adjust the stonework as necessary. Finish the surrounding landscape while preserving access to the Pump Canyon.
Installation Tip: Plan for Actual Pump Flow
The IllumiFlow 6000 pump is rated for a maximum of 6,000 gallons per hour. Actual delivered flow decreases as pumping height and plumbing resistance increase.
A taller waterfall, additional fittings, or a modified plumbing layout can change waterfall performance. Our Sales/Tech Team can help review the design before installation.
Compare Cascading Falls Kit Sizes
Choosing the right pond-less waterfall kit depends on the desired spillway width, approximate stream size, available installation space, and reservoir requirements. Compare the complete Blue Thumb family below.
| Specification | DIY 10" | DIY 20" | Elite 14" | Elite 16" Spillway | Elite 22" | Elite 28" Spillway | Elite 30" Large | Elite 40" XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Item Number | PB1373 | PB1854 | PB1229 | PB16KIT | PB1236 | PB28KIT | PB30CFK | PB40CFK |
| Maximum Stream | 4' × 1'–2' | 8' × 2'–4' | 6' × 1'–2' | 6' × 1'–2' | 16' × 2'–4' | 16' × 2'–4' | 17' × 4'–6' | 18' × 6'–7' |
| Falls Width | 10" | 20" | 14" | 16" | 22" | 28" | 30" | 40" |
| Pump Flow | 1,495 GPH | 1,980 GPH | 2,100 GPH | 2,100 GPH | 4,500 GPH | 6,000 GPH | 6,000 GPH | 7,800 GPH |
| PVC Flex Hose | 1" × 7' | 1.5" × 10' | 2" × 25' | 2" × 25' | 2" × 25' | 2" × 25' | 3" × 25' | 3" × 25' |
| Rubber Liner | 6' × 10' | 8' × 15' | 10' × 15' | 10' × 15' | 10' × 10' + 10' × 20' | 10' × 10' + 10' × 20' | 15' × 15' + 10' × 20' | 15' × 15' + 15' × 20' |
| Basin Matrix | Canyon Matrix | Canyon Matrix | 1 Large | 1 Large | 3 Large | 3 Large | 3 Large + 3 Small | 4 Large + 4 Small |
| Pump Canyon | Canyon Matrix | Canyon Matrix | Small | Small | Small | Small | Large | Large |
DIY Mini 10"
SKU: PB1373
Max stream: 4' × 1'–2'
Spillway: 10"
Pump: 1,495 GPH
Hose: 1" × 7'
Liner: 6' × 10'
Reservoir: Canyon Matrix
DIY Small 20"
SKU: PB1854
Max stream: 8' × 2'–4'
Spillway: 20"
Pump: 1,980 GPH
Hose: 1.5" × 10'
Liner: 8' × 15'
Reservoir: Canyon Matrix
Elite Small 14"
SKU: PB1229
Max stream: 6' × 1'–2'
Spillway: 14"
Pump: 2,100 GPH
Hose: 2" × 25'
Liner: 10' × 15'
Matrix: 1 Large
Pump Canyon: Small
Elite Small 16" Spillway
SKU: PB16KIT
Max stream: 6' × 1'–2'
Spillway: 16"
Pump: 2,100 GPH
Hose: 2" × 25'
Liner: 10' × 15'
Matrix: 1 Large
Pump Canyon: Small
Elite Medium 22"
SKU: PB1236
Max stream: 16' × 2'–4'
Spillway: 22"
Pump: 4,500 GPH
Hose: 2" × 25'
Liner: 10' × 10' + 10' × 20'
Matrix: 3 Large
Pump Canyon: Small
Elite Medium 28" Spillway
SKU: PB28KIT
Max stream: 16' × 2'–4'
Spillway: 28"
Pump: 6,000 GPH
Hose: 2" × 25'
Liner: 10' × 10' + 10' × 20'
Matrix: 3 Large
Pump Canyon: Small
Elite Large 30" — Current Kit
SKU: PB30CFK
Max stream: 17' × 4'–6'
Spillway: 30"
Pump: 6,000 GPH
Hose: 3" × 25'
Liner: 15' × 15' + 10' × 20'
Matrix: 3 Large + 3 Small
Pump Canyon: Large
Elite X-Large 40"
SKU: PB40CFK
Max stream: 18' × 6'–7'
Spillway: 40"
Pump: 7,800 GPH
Hose: 3" × 25'
Liner: 15' × 15' + 15' × 20'
Matrix: 4 Large + 4 Small
Pump Canyon: Large
Comparison measurements are the approximate maximum configurations published for each kit. Finished stream size depends on the installation layout.
Routine Care and Maintenance
Pond-less waterfalls generally require less maintenance than open ponds, but the pump, reservoir, and waterfall still need regular attention.
- Monitor water levels: Replace water lost through evaporation and splash. Never allow the pump to run dry.
- Remove debris: Clear leaves and other material that could restrict the waterfall or block the pump intake.
- Inspect the pump: Periodically check the intake, plumbing, and connections for buildup or restrictions.
- Clean the cascade diffuser: Inspect and rinse the Matala diffuser mat as described in the maintenance guide.
- Prepare for freezing temperatures: Prevent the pump housing and plumbing from freezing. Remove and store the pump where it cannot freeze when necessary.
Installation Manuals and Resources
Review the installation guides before beginning your project. These resources provide the detailed diagrams, connection instructions, and maintenance information needed for proper installation.
Elite Cascading Falls Kit Installation Manual (PDF) Cascade Box, Pump Canyon and Matrix Guide (PDF) Pond-less Waterfall Maintenance Guide (PDF) Basin Matrix Assembly Guide (PDF) IllumiFlow Pump Owner's Manual (PDF) Blue Thumb Warranty Information (PDF)
Watch a Pond-less Waterfall Installation
See how the main stages of a pond-less waterfall installation come together, from basin preparation to plumbing, stone placement, and finished water flow.
Blue Thumb Cascading Falls Installation Overview
Video by Blue Thumb. This demonstration covers the general installation process for our DIY pond-less waterfall systems. It is not an exact-model installation demonstration for the Elite Large 30" kit. Use the Elite installation manual above for the correct reservoir layout, components, and specifications.
Need Help Planning Your Waterfall?
Our Sales/Tech Team can help you determine whether the Elite Large 30" Cascading Falls Kit is the right choice for your landscape.
Contact us with your approximate stream dimensions, waterfall height, and installation questions. We can help you review the system before you order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a pond-less waterfall and a traditional pond waterfall?
A pond-less waterfall circulates water through a hidden underground reservoir rather than an exposed pond. You can enjoy the movement and sound of a waterfall without maintaining a traditional fish pond. It is not intended to provide an open habitat for fish or pond plants that need standing water.
How large of a waterfall can I build with this kit?
The Elite Large 30" kit is designed for an approximate maximum stream of 17 feet long and 4–6 feet wide. These measurements are planning estimates rather than guaranteed finished dimensions. Greater waterfall height, curves, and installation conditions may reduce the achievable stream dimensions.
Are the rocks and gravel included in the kit?
No. Rocks and gravel are not included. You will need to source the decorative stone for the waterfall, streambed, and reservoir covering separately. This allows you to choose materials that complement your landscape.
Does this kit include the pump and underground reservoir?
Yes. The kit includes an IllumiFlow 6,000 GPH pump, Large Elite Pump Canyon, three large Basin Matrix boxes, three small Basin Matrix boxes, rubber liners, underliner, and recirculating plumbing components. The reservoir is assembled and installed below ground during construction.
Can I install this pond-less waterfall on a slope?
Yes. Sloped landscapes can be good locations for cascading waterfalls. The installation must account for soil stability, waterfall height, liner coverage, water containment, and an appropriately positioned underground reservoir. Review the installation manual before finalizing the design.
Will the 6,000 GPH pump always deliver 6,000 gallons per hour?
No. The 6,000 GPH specification is the pump's maximum rated flow. Actual flow decreases as pumping height and plumbing resistance increase. Our Sales/Tech Team can help evaluate the expected performance for your installation.
Can I add an automatic water fill system?
Yes. The Large Elite Pump Canyon provides an automatic water-fill connection. Our Hudson Automatic Water Fill Kit, PB1342, is a compatible optional accessory. It is sold separately and requires a suitable water connection. Follow the autofill kit's installation and water-pressure requirements.
Can I leave the pond-less waterfall running during winter?
Winter operation is possible only when the pump housing and plumbing are protected from freezing. If ice could form around the pump or plumbing, shut down the system, remove the pump, drain it, and store it where it cannot freeze. Follow the pump owner's manual for complete instructions.
What warranty comes with the Elite Large Cascading Falls Kit?
Coverage varies by component. Blue Thumb provides a lifetime limited warranty against manufacturing defects on covered Blue Thumb engineered-plastic components, including Cascade Falls Boxes, Pump Canyons, and Basin Matrix. The included IllumiFlow pump has a separate 24-month limited warranty. The entire kit does not carry one universal lifetime warranty. Review our official warranty documentation for conditions and exclusions.
Related Products
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Elite X-Large 40" Cascading Falls Kit
$3,499.99 -
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Elite Small 14" Cascading Falls Kit
$1,349.99
