Attractions & Activities in and around Wells Gray Park
The spectacular scenery is the reason Wells Gray Park is a "must see" on your trip through BC. It is known as the waterfall park as there are over 250 waterfalls located in the area. The most impressive is Helmcken Falls, at 141metres it is the fourth highest in Canada.
However, there is a lot more to Wells Gray Park than magnificent scenery - extinct volcanoes, lava rock formations, alpine meadows, lush forest, and the free-flowing Clearwater River to name a few. Following are potential itineraries lasting from a short 1/2 hour to a few days stay in Clearwater, BC and Wells Gray Country.
Natural Beauty
The famous Wells Gray Provincial Park is only a short 35 kilometer drive from Clearwater. The park is world famous for its majestic and numerous waterfalls. The three major falls are only a short walk from your car. For the more energetic, there are some excellent hikes to view the more remote falls.
Wells Gray Park also offers extinct volcanoes, lava rock formations, alpine meadows, lush forests, unspoiled lakes and beautiful rivers. It is a "must see" on your tour of Western Canada.
For more information on Wells Gray park and available hikes visit BC Parks web site or information on Tourism Wells Gray Association web site. Also click here for an article on the area.
River Rafting and Kayaking
Clearwater, BC is famous for its excellent river trips. From exciting white water rafting, to the more relaxing scenic boat trips, there is a trip to suite your taste and time schedule. Kayaking trips and classes are also available. Check out this business located in Clearwater for more information:
- Liquid Lifestyles - www.liquidlifestyles.ca
Fishing
For those fishing enthusiasts look no further. Wells Gray country offers some excellent fishing; especially the fresh water Rainbow Trout, well known for its fierce fighting power.
With the numerous lakes and rivers in the area you are sure to find your "ideal' fishing hole.
Hiking
Fantastic hiking in the area. From short one kilometer trails to all day hikes to the more remote backcountry trips. The Clearwater/ Wells Gray area has pristine wilderness that is waiting to be discovered. You can explore on your own or utilize the services of the many qualified guides in the area. Click here for a map of the trails in Wells Gray Park.
Wells Gray Adventures has hut to hut hiking to their three remote lodges in the beautiful alpine of Wells Gray Park. They operate both summer and winter programs. Wells Gray Adventures also do combination trips of canoeing and hiking.
Between the end of June and mid-August is the time to see the wildflowers that carpet the subalpine meadows of Trophy Mountain. The 'To the Treeline and Beyond' trail is an easy 2 k walk. A lengthier hiking trail leads from the meadows to views of the Shuswap Highlands from Skyline Ridge (moderate; 12 km return). The turnoff for this trail is 10K up the Clearwater Valley Road and turn east at Spahats Creek Provincial Park.
On the Water - canoeing, kayaking
In addition to its famous waterfalls, Wells Gray Park is also know for its two large pristine lakes, Clearwater Lake and Azure Lake. Try canoeing and kayaking on these lakes as a means to explore the park and stay at one of the eleven wilderness campsites.
Suggested Itineraries
The Peek - 30 to 45 minutes
A visit to Spahats Falls allows you to get a taste of the beauty that Wells Gray Country offers its visitors. Spahats is noted not only for its impressive waterfall but beautiful gorge where you can see the layers of lava rock.
Approximately 21 km return
The Waterfall Dash - 3 hours
If you arrive in Clearwater later in the afternoon there is still enough time to visit 3 impressive waterfalls - Helmcken, Spahats and Dawson. In summer (July & August) it is usually light until after 8:00pm. Or relax in the evening and take a visit the park in the morning before heading off to your next destination.
Driving distance is approximately 93 km round trip to Helmcken Falls
Spectacular Waterfalls - 6 to 8 hours
Driving distance is approximately 114 km round trip to Bailey's Chute or 112 to Ray's Farm and Mineral Spring. If you have the time, take a tour of the Clearwater Lake.
Full Day - 8 - 9 hours
Option A - Waterfalls and Whitewater
Take a whitewater rafting trip in the morning and view the spectacular waterfalls in the afternoon. Clearwater has some great rafting trips at excellent value.
Option B - Horseback Riding and Waterfalls
View the waterfalls in the morning and take a horseback riding trip in the afternoon. Chance to walk behind the Moul Creek Falls. Not a fan of riding, you can also hike to the falls.
Option C - Waterfalls and hike
After viewing the falls take time to hike one of the many 1/2 day trails in the area. If visiting in August a drive up Trophy Mountain and short walk will take you to a beautiful meadow of wildflowers.
Clearwater BC really does have it all for your vacation enjoyment!
