Wells Gray Provincial Park

Wells Gray Provincial Park covers 5,250 square kilometers of mountain ranges, deep valleys, lakes, and 41 waterfalls in central British Columbia. The Clearwater River runs through the area from north to south, carving deep canyons with steep rock walls.

The Secwepemc, Tsilhqot'in, and Canim Lake people hunted in this region for centuries before it was protected in 1939. The designation came through the efforts of Walter Wells Gray, a minister of lands and settlements in the provincial government.

The name honors Walter Wells Gray, a pioneer and minister who supported the creation of wilderness areas in British Columbia. Landmarks like Battle Mountain and Fight Lake recall clashes between indigenous communities who competed for caribou hunting grounds in the 19th century.

Clearwater Valley Road leads to the entrance and provides access to several trails and waterfalls. Campgrounds are located at different spots, and most trails are walkable from May to October.

Helmcken Falls, at 141 meters one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada, forms a huge ice cone at the base during winter. This cone can grow up to 50 meters tall and lasts until late spring.

Location: Thompson-Nicola Regional District

Location: Cariboo Regional District

Inception: November 28, 1939

Website: https://bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/wells_gry

GPS coordinates: 52.32389,-120.15000

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:28