Travel reviews
What to do
- Noteworthy
- Worth the detour
- Must see
Wells Gray Park, often known as the Waterfall Park, is one of British Columbia's most spectacular wilderness parks. It is not one of the better-known parks, making it a good place to get away from the hordes of tourists.
The park is home to a large black bear population, more frequently seen early in the morning or in the evening when they venture out in groups to feed. This is one of the best places in the Rockies for black bear watching.
Helmcken Falls
Many people consider this to be the most spectacular waterfall in Western Canada. The viewing platform is easily accessible from the road, making this a popular stop for visitors, who are always impressed by the awe-inspiring power and magnificent natural setting. The best time to appreciate the full splendour of the falls is in late afternoon, when the sun is near the top of the falls.
Spahats Falls
Spahats Falls is a stunning waterfall. They plunge more than 60 meters (197 feet) into a deep canyon, and a short, easy trail leads you to breathtaking views, to the powerful sound of rushing water. Surrounded by lush, refreshing forests, it’s an ideal place to take photos and enjoy nature.
Dawson Falls
Driving along the Clearwater Valley Road in Wells Gray Provincial Park, you’ll arrive at Dawson Falls. A short 10-minute stroll through old-growth forest brings you to this impressive terraced waterfall, where water cascades down 200,000-yearold lava beds. Stretching 90 metres (295 feet) across the Murtle River, the falls form a fascinating veil of shallow water. With two remarkable vantage points, you can get up close to the tumultuous river or admire a panoramic view downstream.
Bailey's Chute
In August and September, in early morning or evening, you can view salmon jumping upstream as they return to their spawning ground.
Bailey's Chute is located in Clearwater Valley, about 60 kilometres from Wells Gray Park, and flows into the Clearwater River. The observation platform is near the parking lot.
Canoeing on Clearwater Lake
Canoeing on Clearwater Lake is a chance to experience a quintessential Canadian pastime in an enchanting natural setting. You will find inner peace as you glide through pristine landscapes. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife! Canoes can be rented at the boat launch on Clearwater Lake. Guided tours are also available.
Moul Falls
Distance (round-trip): 5.5 km
Time (round-trip): 2 hours
Level: Moderate
Elevation gain: 210 m
Although the route includes stairs on the most technical section, it is designed to be accessible to a wide range of hikers. One of the highlights of this hike is the opportunity to walk behind Moul Falls, a unique experience that often leaves visitors with lasting memories. As you approach the falls, you’ll be enveloped by the soothing sound of the water and the surrounding natural beauty.
Trophy Mountain
Go hiking through the most beautiful sub-alpine meadows in the Rockies. The wildflower blooms are at their peak in July and August.
Sheila Lake
Distance (round-trip): 6 km
Time (round-trip): 4 hours
Level: Moderate
Elevation gain: 200 m
This trail offers easy access to beautiful sub-alpine meadows. From the parking lot, a 1 km (45 minute) hike rises gently through forest and crosses small streams to reach the sub-alpine meadows. From there, an additional 1.5 km leads to Sheila Lake. Take a break and enjoy your surroundings before retracing your steps, or you can continue on to the panoramic views of Skyline Ridge (12 km round trip from the parking lot).
Rafing
Clearwater is renowned for whitewater rafting, and several companies offer this exciting adventure such as: Interior Whitewater Expeditions, Liquid Lifestyles and Riverside Adventures. For a unique perspective on the park, Clearwater Lake Tours offers a full-day excursion on the lake. Finally, for the young and adventurous, X Sky Paragliding operates from Birch Island.
NEARBY
PHOTO SAFARI BY BOAT
Halfway between Mount Robson and Wells Gray Park, hop on a boat for an exciting bear safari! Explore the valley, travelling through pristine glacier-fed rivers and lakes. You're sure to see animal life on these shores. The guides will also show you glaciers and waterfalls plunging from the surrounding mountains.
The River Safari is the most popular tour, but the company also offers other options. Departures every 30 or 60 minutes throughout the summer, starting in May.
Where to eat
- $ Inexpensive
- $$ Moderate
- $$$ Upscale
- $$$$ Fine dining
Wildflower Cafe ($)
Wildflour Cafe is a Clearwater treasure, renowned for its exceptional coffee and dishes prepared with fresh, quality ingredients. Everything here is homemade, from the meat broths in the soups to the ancient flours ground on site for the pastries. Their range of artisan drinks, accompanied by delicious pastries, makes every visit a gourmet experience.
The Painted Turtle Restaurant ($$)
Located on Dutch Lake, this restaurant offers good food, an open-air covered patio and a spectacular view of the lake. The menu focuses on local and regional products, seasonal produce and fresh ingredients. You can even observe the lake’s Painted Turtles.
HOP “N” HOG TAP & SMOKEHOUSE ($$)
Open only since 2015, this restaurant has quickly become local favourite. Maybe it's the tasty organic coffee, or because they bake their own bread... They also smoke their own meat and fish, and offer BBQ evenings with live misic. Don't miss it!
Gateway Grill ($)
Gateway Grill is a friendly restaurant in Clearwater, ideal for meals with family and friends. With a varied menu featuring classic dishes and local specialties, this grill is renowned for its juicy burgers, crispy fries and tasty vegetarian options. The warm, relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure.
Backcountry Bowls ($)
Backcountry Bowls is a plant-based food truck, offering healthy, tasty take-out perfect for your adventures. Their menu, crafted with fresh ingredients from local producers, includes homemade bowls, smoothies and sweets. Committed to sustainability, they use compostable and recyclable containers to minimize their environmental impact.
Where to sleep ?
Map
When to visit
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Climograph
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Month | Average temperature min (°C) |
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January | -14 | -3 | 32 | |
February | -13 | 1 | 47 | |
March | -6 | 7 | 33 | |
April | -2 | 13 | 54 | |
May | 2 | 19 | 58 | |
June | 2 | 22 | 103 | |
July | 7 | 25 | 119 | |
August | 8 | 25 | 82 | |
September | 4 | 19 | 64 | |
October | 2 | 11 | 85 | |
November | -3 | 2 | 53 | |
December | -9 | -3 | 56 |
Travel reviews
BC Road Trip
WGP Park
Chasing waterfalls
What a great place to see loads of spectacular waterfalls and with great RV parking available at each place. We got there early to miss the crowds but it actually wasn't too bad. Couldn't see the biggest waterfall because it was closed for viewing platform repair but the other falls were great. So much to see but you only had 1.5 days.