Dawson Falls

Dawson Falls is a waterfall in Wells Gray Provincial Park that drops over a broad edge of volcanic rock. The water tumbles down in a wide curtain formation, creating a impressive display of cascading water visible from multiple viewing spots along the trail.

The waterfall was named in 1913 after George Herbert Dawson, the Surveyor-General of British Columbia. The naming came from land surveyor Robert Henry Lee while mapping the region.

The falls form part of the Murtle River system, which contains seven major waterfalls within Wells Gray Provincial Park's boundaries.

The trail to the falls is relatively easy to walk and features viewing platforms at different spots. Wear sturdy shoes since the ground near the water can be slippery and damp from mist.

The water flows over lava deposits roughly 200,000 years old from a distant geological past. Beneath this volcanic layer lies compressed sand and gravel from an ancient river system.

Location: British Columbia

Part of: Murtle River

GPS coordinates: 51.96667,-120.11667

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:42