Wells Gray Provincial Park: A Destination for Waterfall Lovers

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Waterfalls. Whether you like to hike to them, photograph them, raft their waters or just enjoy their scenic splendour – Canada’s Waterfall Park is going to fill your cup. Wells Gray Provincial Park in British Columbia, Canada offers a thrilling lineup of cascades, plus rugged mountains, to-die-for wildflower meadows, wildlife and serene lakes. Here’s what you need to know about Wells Gray Provinical Park.

It blows my mind that merely 6-months ago I had never heard of Wells Gray Provincial Park. I was planning a road trip between Vancouver and Calgary, looking for things to do between Jasper National Park and Whistler, when it crossed my radar. Be still my waterfall-loving heart! While it may not have Canada’s tallest, widest or most voluminous falls, I’m happy to report that the Park is outstanding and I wish I’d had more time there. Let’s take a closer look!

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What is Wells Gray Provincial Park Known For?

Wells Gray Provincial Park is known for its natural beauty, particularly its waterfalls, of which there are 41 named falls to be precise. It’s awe-inspiring landscapes were created by now-extinct volcanoes and sculpted by glaciers.

Established in 1939, the Park was initially intended to protect Helmcken Falls. Today, it spans over 5,000-square kilometres (more than 540,000-hectares/1.3-million acres) and preserves large swathes of the world’s only inland temperate rainforest. The Park also shelters one of the largest remaining herds of mountain caribou in British Columbia.

Wells Gray Provincial Park is located within the traditional territories of the Simpkcw and Tsq’escenemc First Nations.

Best Time of Year to Visit Wells Gray Provincial Park

The best time to visit Wells Gray Provincial Park is between late spring and early autumn, when the Park’s iconic waterfalls are at their most impressive, thanks to snowmelt and seasonal rains.

Spring (May to June) brings incredible wildflowers, as well as the beginning of the waterfall season.

Summer (July to August) offers ideal weather for hiking, camping, and water-based activities, though this is also peak tourist season. I’ve heard the flies and mosquitos can get bad around these summer months, but that was not our experience save one exception mentioned below.

Early autumn (September) is perfect for travellers who prefer cooler weather, fewer crowds, and the stunning sight of fall colours.

Winter also has a unique charm, with frozen waterfalls and opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and ice fishing. However, due to limited access and icy roads, winter visits require extra preparation and caution.

How Long to Spend in Wells Gray Provincial Park?

Yes, you could see the main waterfalls in 1-day by following Clearwater Valley Road up the Wells Gray corridor and stopping at the key waterfall viewing areas along the way. Some are just steps from the parking lot, while others require a short hike. However, it will leaving you wanting more…

A 2-3 day visit is more ideal for experiencing the Park’s highlights. This timeframe allows enough time for popular day hikes, waterfall viewing, and outdoor activities like canoeing or wildlife spotting, without feeling too rushed.

Travellers who want to indulge in everything the Park has to offer can easily fill a 4-5 day stay. Raft, hike, mountain bike, fish, canoe, golf, horseride… Wells Gray really is your oyster! A longer stay also provides you the  time to explore backcountry areas and soak in the beauty of this stunning part of BC.

Getting to Wells Gray Provincial Park

Wells Gray Provincial Park is located in British Columbia, with the closest town being Clearwater. Public transportation options to Wells Gray are limited. While you can get as far as Clearwater by bus and rail, you still need a vehicle to explore the Park. Therefore, driving or renting a vehicle is the most convenient way to reach the Park.

The nearest airports are located in Kamloops, Prince George, Vancouver and Calgary.  Here are some approximate driving distances from these cities/airports:

Kamloops Airport (YKA): 90-minute drive (126 km/78 mi) north on Highway 5

Prince George Airport (YXS): 3-hour drive (315 km/195 mi) to the north of Wells Gray

Vancouver Airport (YVR): 5-hour drive (450 km/280 mi) – why not stop by Whistler on your way through?

Calgary Airport (YYC): 7-hour drive (635 km/394 mi) westward – ideal if you want to explore Banff and Jasper National Park along the way

Navigating Wells Gray Provincial Park

Wells Gray Provincial Park is vast and largely wilderness, with key sights spaced out over large distances. So renting a vehicle is recommended for convenient access to trailheads and key points of interest. The Park has well-maintained roads, though certain areas may require a 4WD vehicle. For travellers wanting to explore further, renting or bringing a bike can be a fun way to get around smaller sections of the park, though a vehicle is best for covering longer distances.

There is one main, paved road—Clearwater Valley Road. It runs up the centre of the Park from the town of Clearwater to the bottom of Clearwater Lake. Offshoot roads to places such as Green Mountain Viewing Tower or the Trophy Mountain trailheads are dirt roads.

Wells Gray Provincial Park accommodation

There are a variety of accommodation options. These range from campgrounds and cabins within the Park, to lodges and hotels in the nearby town of Clearwater. Visitors looking for hotels can find comfortable (but not luxurious) options in Clearwater, where there are local services such as restaurants, supermarkets and gas stations are available.

Things to do in Wells Gray Provincial Park

Waterfalls, of course!

Drive Clearwater Valley Road from start to end, stopping at all the waterfalls along the way. The Park’s crown jewel, Helmcken Falls is a dramatic plunge of about 141m (463ft) into a canyon. Visit the viewpoint for a jaw-dropping experience and hike the rim trail for alternative perspectives.

Not far behind Helmcken Falls in terms of drama, is Spahats Creek Falls. At 60m (197ft) tall, the Falls emerge from a notch Spahats Creek has carved in the side of a volcanic-rock canyon. Look for the logs trapped at the top of the Falls for scale – this is beauty is a monster!

Ray Farm

History buffs and wildlife watchers will enjoy a visit to Ray Farm. The “farm” is the remains of a homestead from the early 20^th-century where you can see original structures and learn about early settlers in the region. There are also mineral springs and wildlife watching platforms.

Tip: Take your insect spray. The standing water of the springs is a magnet for mosquitoes and no-see-ums.

Canoeing on Clearwater and Azure Lakes

For a peaceful day on the water, rent a canoe and explore the crystal-clear lakes, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and prime spots for wildlife viewing.

For more remote canoeing adventures, Murtle Lake claims the largest canoe-only lake in North America. It has 69 canoe-in tenting sites along its shoreline and has is noted for its trout fishing. Note, Murtle Lake is accessed out of Blue River rather than Clearwater.

Wildflowers and Trophy Mountain

Wells Gray is home to vibrant wildflowers in spring and summer. Trophy Mountain flower meadows become a colourful carpet, making this a favourite for photographers and nature lovers—I was gobsmacked! This hike is your best bet for the most phenomenal wildflowers. It’s about 45-min to an hour hike from the parking lot before you reach the meadow and it’s worth every step! Pack a picnic and soak it in. Hike further for alpine lakes and backcountry camping with astounding mountain vistas—I just couldn’t get enough.

Whitewater rafting

Whitewater rafting is a great way to experience the raw power of Clearwater River. With Class I-IV rapids, there are options for rafters of all experience levels. The river is also a good place to spot wildlife and you might have the chance to visit, you guessed it, more waterfalls!

Hit up some viewpoints

Take in panoramic views and possible wildlife from green Mountain Viewing Tower and overlook the Clearwater River valley from Shaden viewpoint.

Travel tips for visiting Wells Gray Provincial Park

1. Prepare for limited connectivity: Mobile reception is unreliable, so download maps and bring a compass for navigation.

2. Pack for all seasons: Even at the end of July, we found it chilly – especially at elevation. Weather can vary widely, so pack layers, rain gear, and sun protection.

3. Fuel up in advance: Gas stations are limited; fill up before entering the park.

4. Stay wildlife-aware: Bears, moose, wolves, coyotes, cougars, lynx and caribou all call Wells Gray home. Give wildlife space, carry bear spray, keep food secure, and follow Park guidelines.

5. Book accommodation early: Lodgings fill up fast in the summer months, so book in advance.

7. Check Park alerts: Weather and road conditions can change quickly, so check alerts before you go.

8. Bring Cash: Not all facilities accept cards, especially within the Park.

9. Stay on marked trails: This protects the landscape and helps avoid getting lost in vast wilderness areas.

I’m going to have to disagree with TLC when it comes to chasing waterfalls and Wells Gray Provincial Park. Waterfall lovers should 100% add this spot to their bucket list—you will not be disappointed!

Peace, love and inspiring travels,

Madam ZoZo