hikes in Wells Gray Provincial Park

With nearly 5,500km² of breathtaking British Columbia terrain within its borders, Wells Gray Provincial Park is a perfect destination for those looking to explore a pristine stretch of wilderness that is far removed from the crowds of other popular parks in the province. Nicknamed “Canada’s Waterfalls Park”, Wells Gray is home to 41 named waterfalls and countless others that are unnamed, but none more spectacular than Helmcken Falls - the fourth tallest in Canada with a 141m vertical drop. Highlighted by the picturesque surroundings of countless mountains and gorgeous alpine meadows, Wells Gray Provincial Park is a strong contender for one of the most beautiful locales in BC.

While the park is fairly remote, it is also easily accessible from Kamloops, making it a great option for a variety of outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels. Hiking trails here range from easy routes for beginners to challenging summit hikes for the experienced outdoorsman, while all feature the stunning backcountry terrain that makes this region so appealing. Whether you are just dipping your toes into the world of hiking or have been at it for years, a trip to Wells Gray Provincial Park is a sure fire way to leave the chaos of the outside world behind and reconnect with the beauty of nature.

10 Amazing Hikes In Wells Gray Provincial Park

A hiking trip in Wells Gray Provincial Park is a fascinating experience that will allow you to both explore the vast, untamed wilderness of British Columbia, as well as delve into the rich history of the people who initially settled in this remote region. Countless trails will expose you to the natural beauty of a landscape that is filled with dramatic mountain peaks, gorgeous alpine meadows, torrenting rivers, and cascading waterfalls, while others will provide an insight into the rugged terrain and harsh realities of backcountry living that made life challenging for early homesteaders. Whether you are looking to reconnect with nature or explore the storied past of the region, you will be sure to find the perfect hiking trail to meet all of your needs. Check out this list of 10 of our favourite hiking routes in Wells Gray Provincial Park below:

• Helmcken Falls: This quick hike is a 0.6mi lollipop route that will take you to a viewpoint overlooking the 4th tallest waterfall in Canada. Well-maintained paths and stunning views make this a perfect route for all ages and skill levels.
• Spahats Falls: Another amazing waterfall hike, this trail will take you through a beautiful stretch of forest along the edge of a canyon overlooking Clearwater Valley. The main highlight of this hike is a two-tiered waterfall that can be accessed by a shorter trail from the main parking lot for those that don’t want to complete the entire journey.
• Moul Falls Trail: A family-friendly hike that is suitable for all ages and skill levels, this trail will take you to a stunning waterfall within Wells Gray Provincial Park. Make sure to check out the misty cave behind the falls for a bit of added fun.
• Dawson Falls: This quick adventure will take you along the scenic Murtle River to two viewpoints overlooking a waterfall that resembles a mini Niagara Falls. This fantastic hike is a great way to get acquainted with the natural beauty of the park.
• Murtle Lagoon: A wonderful hike through the forest, the Murtle Lagoon Trail will bring you to a lagoon that is a popular destination for a variety of water sports. Nearby campgrounds make this a great spot to spend a few days outdoors while exploring a number of trails in the area.
• Canim Falls Trail: This short hike is a 1.4mi out-and-back through a stretch of woodland terrain that offers hikers the chance to visit both the Mahood and Canim Falls. For the effort, this is a fantastic hike with some amazing views, especially if it is completed in the spring when higher water levels create a dramatic effect.
• Trophy Meadows Trail: One of the more popular intermediate length routes within the park, the Trophy Meadows Trail will take you up into the mountains for stunning views overlooking gorgeous meadows and lakes. A good variety of terrain and fairly straightforward trails make this perfect for casual and experienced hikers alike.
• Bailey's Chute: Yet another waterfall hike within the park, the trail to Bailey’s Chute will take you through the forest along the edge of the Clearwater River for some amazing views overlooking the torrenting waters.
• Helmcken Falls Rim Trail: An alternate route overlooking the stunning Helmcken Falls, this trail will take you along the edge of the canyon for an 8km journey through the park. This route is suitable for hikers of all skill levels, just remember to exercise caution due to steep drop offs.
• Triple Decker Falls: This super short trail near Clearwater will lead you through a peaceful forest setting to reach a beautifully scenic three-tiered waterfall. Don’t let the 0.5mi overall distance fool you, as there are some steep climbs along this route.

The trek to Triple Decker Falls utilizes a 0.5mi out-and-back hiking route near Clearwater, BC that passes through a charming stretch of forest to arrive at a viewpoint overlooking the falls. Along the trail you will experience a peaceful forest setting that stands in contrast to the rushing water that cascades off the three tiers of the waterfall. Although the trail is short, it is also a fairly steep climb, so be prepared to break a quick sweat if you want to see the falls and borrow one of the hiking poles near the beginning of the trail if you need to.

When is the Best Time to Hike in Wells Gray Provincial Park?

The diversity in both landscapes and wildlife that can be found in Wells Gray Provincial Park make it tough to pinpoint the best time to visit the region on a hiking trip. While the best window is in the May-October range, this can be further broken down depending on your reasons for visiting the park. Although the trails will likely still be a bit on the soft and wet side, May-June is a great time to visit the park if you are hoping to spot a wide variety of wildlife species at their most active time of year. Hiking here in July-August is the best time to experience the stunning alpine meadows, as they are usually enhanced by the colourful wildflowers that blanket vast swathes of terrain. Finally, September-October is a great time to visit the park, as temperatures drop slightly but are still warm enough to remain comfortable on the trail. Additionally, there won’t be as many bugs or other hikers on the trail, meaning you can explore the majority of the park in solitude.

Other Outdoor Activities in Wells Gray Provincial Park

While hiking is certainly the main recreational activity in Wells Gray Provincial Park, other sports are also popular and allow visitors to explore the beautiful terrain of the region from a different perspective. Those that enjoy water sports, such as canoeing and kayaking, will be pleased with the many lakes and rivers that can be explored, while anglers will find a number of peaceful retreats to cast a few lines. Horseback riding is another popular way to traverse the rugged terrain of the park, as are snowshoeing and cross country skiing during the winter months.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wells Gray Provincial Park

How many waterfalls are in Wells Gray Provincial Park?

Nicknamed “Canada’s Waterfalls Park”, Wells Gray is home to 41 named waterfalls, as well as countless others located along more remote creeks and waterways.

How far is Wells Gray Provincial Park from Kamloops?

Wells Gray Provincial Park is an approximately 1.5 hour drive north of Kamloops, making it an easily accessible option for a hiking day trip.