A Visit to Helmcken Falls Will Not Disappoint

Location: Helmcken Falls in Wells Gray Provincial Park near Clearwater.

Directions we followed:

You can reach Wells Gray Provincial Park via Clearwater Valley Road, which is a paved access road also known as the Wells Gray Corridor. You can also use Clearwater River Road, a rough gravel road on the west side of the Clearwater River.

Both roads extend north from the community of Clearwater.

Wells Gray Provincial Park offers many hikes and activities to assure you enjoy your stay.

NOTE: Wells Gray Provincial Park is unique in its offering of over 20 waterfalls for you to enjoy. Be sure to visit Tourism Wells Gray for more information about the provincial park and other waterfalls in the area.

This waterfall has two different view points, one being only a few minutes from the parking lot, and the second trail a hike with a view point from the other side of the waterfall looking straight down into the canyon!

It's popularity is due to the fact that is has a 141 metre drop and is said to be the fourth tallest waterfall in Canada! Plus, it's an easy tourist trail for all ages and hiking abilities. The viewing platform is located over the lip of the canyon, giving you a complete panoramic view of Helmcken Falls, which is fed from the Murtle River.

If you're looking for a more up close and personal view of Helmcken Falls, be sure to take Rim Trail where Tourism Wells Gray says hikers will see waterfall views that are mostly seen by birds.

While I obviously visited Helmcken Falls in the summer, the area is also extremely popular in the winter with the waterfall freezing over and ice crystals hanging mid-air. The best time to visit Helmcken Falls while it is frozen is between January and March. Do keep in mind that the top of any waterfall is dangerous and visitors are encouraged to be careful and follow all safety instructions posted.

Don't forget to stay on the trails, observation decks, and platforms provided.

Hike difficulty: Easy

Distance:

The main point-of-view is just minutes from the parking lot. If you decide to take the hiking trail, it's roughly one and a half hours each way.

Attire needed:

Hiking shoes

Backpack with water/snacks

Whistle/bear spray/bear bell (I always have my bear bell on my pack just as a precaution)

If you are passing through or near Wells Gray Provincial Park while in B.C. and cannot decide which waterfalls to visit, I would highly recommend stopping by Helmcken Falls you won't regret it! I hope you enjoy the falls as much as we did!

- Carlee Kish (Nature Jane)

Carlee Kish is a 23-year-old hiking enthusiast who has lived in Kelowna for two years now. Originally from Regina, Saskatchewan, Kish fell in love with the mountains and hiking during a family trip as a youngster. She has a passion for the wilderness and capturing it along the way with beautiful photos. Kish lives for the outdoors and you can follow her adventures as she relishes in moss during her captivating hikes and boundless adventures. Be sure to follow Carlee's adventures on Instagram @CarleeKish.