WELLS GRAY PARK

Travel reviews
4 / 5 - 211 reviews

What to do

  • Noteworthy
  • Worth the detour
  • Must see

Black Bears - Wells Gray ParkWells 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

Helckmen FallsMany 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.


Bailey's Chute

Bailey's Fall - ClearwaterIn 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 LakeCanoeing 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.


Trophy Mountain

Trophy MountainGo 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).

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.



Optional activity

Where to eat

  • $ Inexpensive
  • $$ Moderate
  • $$$ Upscale
  • $$$$ Fine dining

Strawberry Moose Snackery ($)

Best breakfast in town. This local cafe serves tasty homemade pastries, sandwiches, coffees and specialty teas. Friendly staff who love talking to customers - a great chance to discover some of the area's best-kept secrets! Don't be fooled by the café's outside appearance.

 



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!

Map

When to visit

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Climograph

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Travel reviews

Travel reviews

4 / 5 according to 211 reviews
38%
38 %
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18%
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4%
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2%
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A lovely area. Good walking and immense waterfalls

John Bartlett Tuesday September 26, 2023

Amazing park with stunning scenery.

Molly Anderson Friday July 14, 2023

This was worth the stop for a few days

Phillip oswald Oswald Wednesday July 12, 2023

The was a highlight of our trip. Not far from Clearwater

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