Wells Gray Provincial Park is a behemoth wilderness area with out-of-this-world waterfalls and wildlife.
Access is via the sleepy town of Clearwater or on a day trip from Kamloops. In spring and summer the total driving time from Vancouver is only around five hours to the Southern portion of the park, making it more accessible than you would think.
The park is divided into three main areas and comes highly recommended for those wanting to relax in nature or explore the back country. It is definitely a lesser-known B.C attraction not to be missed. Wells Gray has around fourty waterfalls including the epic Helmcken Falls where water pounds one hundred and fourty one metres down a basalt cliff into the chasm below. There are vantage points above and below this waterfall, but bewares as they are slippery in early spring.
The smaller thirty five metre Moul Falls has an accessible hiking trail leading you down right next to the water. In summer you can even walk behind the falling downpour itself. It is a lush, green valley and extremely relaxing. The nearby canyon hike has spectacular views across the Clearwater River Valley towards the snowy peaks of Trophy Mountain.
For those with a higher budget and less time there are a wonderful series of lodges and accommodation properties right near the southern entrance to the park. These private and comfortable options have starry skies on clear nights.
There are multiple bodies of water to explore and picnic by. Murlte lake is North America's largest paddle-only lake with excellent canoeing opportunities. Tourism agencies in Clearwater can also arrange white water rafting when conditions are favourable.
If you do venture further into the interior be sure to carry bear spray as there is plenty of wildlife including Grizzly bears, white-tailed deer and moose. If you have extra time summer wildflower meadows and local angling activities will keep you occupied for days.
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