Wells Gray Provincial Park
One of British Columbia's Greatest Wilderness Treasures
Wells Gray Provincial Park is one of the largest and most spectacular parks in British Columbia, encompassing over 540,000 hectares of untamed wilderness. Named after Arthur Wellesley Gray, who served as BC's Minister of Lands from 1933 to 1941, the park was established to protect a landscape of extraordinary natural beauty.
The park's landscape was largely shaped by massive volcanic activity and repeated glaciation over millions of years. The result is a dramatic terrain of ancient lava flows, volcanic cones, deep river canyons, and hundreds of stunning waterfalls — including Helmcken Falls, one of Canada's most impressive waterfalls, plunging 141 metres into the Murtle River canyon.
The Secwépemc (Shuswap) people have called this land home for thousands of years, following the cycles of salmon, moose, and caribou through the valleys and highlands. Their deep connection to this landscape long predates the park's formal establishment, and their cultural heritage is woven into the identity of the region.
Natural Highlights
Spectacular Waterfalls
Home to over 40 named waterfalls, including Helmcken Falls (141m), Dawson Falls, and Spahats Falls. The park is often called the 'Waterfall Park' of BC.
Rich Wildlife
Moose, black bears, grizzly bears, wolves, caribou, eagles, and over 200 bird species inhabit the park. Wildlife sightings are common, especially at dawn and dusk.
Volcanic Landscape
Ancient lava flows, volcanic cones, and mineral-rich lakes create a landscape unlike anywhere else in Canada — a living record of the earth's geological past.
Wilderness Recreation
Hiking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing draw visitors from around the world. The park offers everything from easy walks to multi-day backcountry expeditions.
The Park Through the Ages
Pre-1913
The Secwépemc people have inhabited this region for thousands of years, using the land for hunting, fishing, and gathering. European fur traders and explorers begin moving through the area in the early 1800s.
1939
Wells Gray Provincial Park is officially established by the BC government, protecting 540,000 hectares of wilderness. Named after Arthur Wellesley Gray, Minister of Lands.
1960s–70s
Roads and basic visitor infrastructure are developed, opening the park to a wider audience. Tourism in the Clearwater Valley begins to grow steadily.
1993
The park is designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve candidate region, recognising its outstanding ecological and biological significance.
Today
Wells Gray Provincial Park welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and is celebrated as one of BC's crown jewels — a vast, living wilderness of waterfalls, volcanoes, and wildlife.
Plan Your Visit to the Park
Staying at Wells Gray Guest Ranch puts you right at the doorstep of this magnificent park. From the ranch, you can easily explore the park's highlights — from Helmcken Falls to Dawson Falls and beyond — and return each evening to the warmth of the saloon and your cosy cabin.
BC Parks – Wells GrayRoad Trip Planning
Include Wells Gray in a Western Canada Road Trip
Many of our guests stay as part of a larger Canadian road trip — Vancouver to Calgary, Jasper to Vancouver, or a two-week BC loop. Our road trip guide includes ready-to-use itineraries for every length of journey.