Nestled near the Cariboo mountains in Clearwater, British Columbia, Wells Gray Park is a national treasure if there ever was one. Covered in lush forests, extinct volcanoes, and iconic waterfalls, the provincial park is an adventurer’s paradise any time of year!

With 41 named waterfalls, it’s easy to see why Wells Gray is known as “Canada’s Waterfall Park.” It also protects the world’s only inland temperate rainforest, according to Tourism Wells Gray Association, making it one of the most biodiverse parks in the province.

Among the many magical falls to discover is the famed Helmcken Falls, AKA the fourth-highest waterfall in Canada. Plunging 141 metres into the canyon below, the iconic falls can now be enjoyed from a new scenic viewing platform that’s fully accessible, according to BC Parks on Instagram.

Those who drive further along the Clearwater Valley Road and walk through old-growth forest for 10 minutes will encounter the equally beautiful Dawson Falls, which cascades over 200,000-year-old lava beds. Spanning the width of Murtle River, there are two picturesque vantage points to view the falls.

Here are just some of the other enchanting waterfalls to check out at Wells Gray Park:

  • Spahats Creek Falls
  • Mushbowl Falls
  • Moul Falls
  • McDiarmid Falls
  • Osprey Falls
  • Silvertip Falls
  • Triple Decker
  • Candle Creek Falls
  • Rainbow Falls
  • Marcus Falls
  • Myanth Falls
  • Mahood Falls
  • Canim Falls
wells gray park british columbia
Photo via BC Parks

Visitors can hike to famous waterfalls, swim in refreshing mineral pools, and explore the largest canoe-only lake in North America – and that’s just for starters.

Those keen on a summer dip can cool off in the glacier-fed Murtle Lake, adjoining Clearwater and Azure Marine Lake, as well as the lakes, rivers, and streams in the Corridor area. However – your best bet at swimming in non-icy waters this summer is at Mahood Lake on the southwestern tip of the park.

Camping & info

Campers have access to over 500 campsites throughout the park, 164 of which are vehicle-accessible, and 126 of which are boat-accessible.

In an effort to preserve its diverse ecosystems and wildlife, visitors of the park are urged to leave no trace behind.

So there you have it, Vancouver! A memorable trip for your bucket list.

Wells Gray Park 

Where: Clearwater, BC

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Isabelle Vauclair

Staff Writer, Vancouver – Isabelle is a West Coast native with an appreciation for Vancouver’s natural landscape, patio scene, and community spaces. She loves to discover new hidden gems in her neighbourhood and share them with readers across the city.

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