Wells Gray Provincial Park
Park Vast British Columbia park famed for waterfalls
In east‑central British Columbia, Wells Gray Provincial Park is known for waterfalls such as Helmcken Falls, volcanic plateaus and backcountry trails; visitors canoe, hike and camp.
Wells Gray Provincial Park is a large provincial park in east-central British Columbia known for its waterfalls, wilderness landscapes and volcanic landforms. The park protects extensive forested backcountry, alpine areas and river systems and is a major outdoor recreation area in the region.
The park’s best-known feature is Helmcken Falls, a 141-metre waterfall on the Murtle River that is accessible from established viewpoints and trails. Numerous other falls, including Moul and Dawson Falls, plus lakes, rivers and old lava flows make the park notable for both scenic and geological interest.
Established as a provincial park to protect these landscapes, Wells Gray offers hiking, paddling, fishing and winter recreation; management emphasizes wilderness access combined with developed day-use areas near park gateways. Facilities and trailheads are concentrated around the main access points.
Wells Gray lies inland in east-central British Columbia, with the small town of Clearwater serving as the principal gateway community; the park occupies rugged terrain north of the Thompson Plateau and east of the Cariboo Mountains.
- Scale: The park covers over 5,000 square kilometres and contains extensive backcountry routes, volcanic features and a network of waterfalls.
What to See #
- Helmcken Falls: Helmcken Falls, a 141-metre waterfall on the Murtle River, is the park's most famous single feature and a major viewpoint for visitors.
- Other waterfalls: Moul Falls and Dawson Falls are accessible waterfalls within the park that can be visited via established trails and boardwalks.
How to Get to Wells Gray Provincial Park #
Wells Gray Provincial Park is roughly 120-200 km northeast of Kamloops and Clearwater, BC, depending on which part of the park is targeted; access is by Highway 5 and local roads to trailheads and campgrounds. A car is recommended for exploring the park.
Tips for Visiting Wells Gray Provincial Park #
- Check provincial park notices for active closures and bear advisories before visiting.
- Drive the Clearwater Valley and stop at Helmcken Falls viewpoint for a dramatic, accessible waterfall.
- Campgrounds fill on holiday weekends - book in advance if planning overnight stays.
Best Time to Visit Wells Gray Provincial Park #
Summer provides the most accessible conditions for hiking, waterfall viewing and camping; spring offers powerful runoff and waterfall flow.
Weather & Climate near Wells Gray Provincial Park #
Wells Gray Provincial Park's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -13°C to 17°C. Abundant rainfall (1175 mm/year), wettest in November.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -6°C and lows of -13°C. Significant rainfall (113 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -10°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm).
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March
March is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -9°C. Regular rainfall (99 mm).
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April
April is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -5°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm).
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July
July is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm).
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August
August is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (84 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -3°C. Significant rainfall (115 mm).
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November
November is freezing with highs of -3°C and lows of -8°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (137 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -12°C. Significant rainfall (119 mm).