WELLS GRAY & CLEARWATER, B.C 2017-18 Visitor Guide
The
a d a Can
You d e n i g Ima
wellsgray.ca Photo: Holly Louwerse Photography
Welcome to
WELLS GRAY
Country Imagine a place... Where the Clearwater, Thompson and Murtle Rivers roar and wildlife sightings are as common as sunrise and sunset.
T
he place you imagine is Wells Gray Country, the mountain communities centered around Clearwater and Wells Gray Provincial Park. 5,250 square kilometers (1.3 million acres) of alpine wilderness, borne from volcanoes and carved by glaciers. It’s one of the most unique landscapes in all of B.C., where your days are measured in your steps hiked, wildlife sightings, and the number of waterfall shots on your camera.
Wells Gray Adventures guiding on Clearwater Lake
The Visitor’s Guide is published by Tourism Wells Gray 250.674.3530 ext. 109 wellsgray.ca
52.3239° N |120.1497° W
22 WELLS GRAY PARK VO LC A N O E S VOLCANIC FEATURES VISIBLE IN THE PARK
AVERAGE TEMP
LAKES = 200+
CELSIUS
CELCIUS
22 -5
40
°
SKI, BIKE, HIKE KM OVER
100
INLAND
C A N A DA’ S LARGEST ALPINE FLOWER
WINTER/SPRING
°
WATERFALLS:
RAINFOREST
SUMMER/FALL
1.3 MILLION ACRES OF WILDERNESS
OF GROOMED TRAILS
MURTLE LAKE = NORTH AMERICA’S LARGEST CANOE ONLY LAKE
TROPHY SOAR TO MOUNTAINS
WHERE THE WILDLIFE LIVES
2,575M
ABOVE THE S H U SWA P H I G H LA N D
THE PARK It’s here, among old-growth inland rainforests and soaring mountain peaks that you’ll find your wild. During Spring, Summer and Fall you can hike through ancient forests, paddle pristine lakes, and raft on some of Canada’s fiercest rapids. Open year-round, experience Wells Gray in the winter. Gaze upon the majesty of frozen waterfalls. Break trail with your snowshoes and glide along ski trails through a winter wonderland. Ice skate on a frozen lake, or try your luck ice fishing. Clearwater, BC is the “Gateway to Wells Gray Park”, and is a welcome base camp for your adventures. Camp along our rivers or treat yourself to rest and relaxation in some of Canada’s best B&B’s. Try local cuisine and enjoy live music. Immerse yourself in First Nations and pioneer history.
Adventure awaits in the Canada you imagined.
"What you're going to get in Wells Gray Park is truly an authentic experience. Whether you're looking for high or soft adventure, whitewater rafting or a scenic canoe trip
Dawson Falls on the Murtle River in Wells Gray Park
- you're going to find it here."
OUR STORY
s
cratch beneath the surface of our forests and mountains and you’ll uncover a history deeply rooted in First Nation history and pioneering legends. Explore the Ray and Majerus wilderness homesteads. Witness the ravages of the Great Wells Gray Fire of 1926. Search out historic log houses and barns. Follow in the wake of the first Overlanders, rafting on the North Thompson River.
Our heritage is not out of reach; it surrounds you the moment you step into the park! Step out on almost any valley trail and you’re hiking (or snowshoeing) in the footsteps of the Simpcw and Canim Lake (Tsq’escenemc) First Nations. Discover pictographs lining the shore at Mahood Lake. Look for salmon along the Raft River, as our First Nations have always done. Search for remnants of ancient kekulis, now fading into the earth. The Simpcw and Tsq’escenemc are members of the Secwepemc, or Shuswap Nation, whose traditional territory encompasses much of the North Thompson region and WellsGray Country. Ancestors of present band members lived in winter villages or camps and evidence of life in earlier times can still be found at ancestral village sites.
KM
OF HIKING TRAILS F I S H I N G
in 1 5+ L A K E S
SKATING CURLING
250
+
ACTIVITIES
OVER
75KM OF
HORSE
RIDING
T R A I L S
ACTIVITIES F LY - F I S H I N G
ON CLEARWATER RIVER
2017 = N E W MOUNTAIN
TRAILS
NORTH AMERICA’S BIKING LARGEST PADDLE-ONLY LAKE O V E R
35 KM
NORDIC O V E R
0KM SKI 2SNOWSHOEING TRAILS
T R A I L S
30 W H I T E RAFTING 28 W A T E R KAYAKING k m k m
ITINERARIES
Adventure awaits you in Wells Gray DAY ONE
DAY TWO
Spend the morning taking a self-guided waterfall tour, seeing our most famed waterfalls including Helmcken, Spahats, Dawson, and Mushbowl Falls.
Have another day?
Feeling more adventurous? Feel the power of Moul Falls on this two hour return hike. Or hike up to the Trophy Mountain Flower Meadows. Try the short steep climb to Silvertip Falls. Grab a bite in town then book yourself an adventure for the afternoon like whitewater rafting or horseback riding.
DAY 3 + MORE Explore the history and geology of the park with hikes like the Clearwater River Trail to Triple Decker Falls, Whitehorse Bluffs or the hike to Ray Farm. Experience Wells Gray Country from the air on a flight. Need to relax? Take a dip in Dutch Lake, or go for a round of golf. Spend the evening enjoying B.C. wine and live music.
Explore the upper end of the Park corridor. Choose from a multitude of hikes like the West Lake loop, Pyramid Mountain, Stitka Falls and Clearwater Lake View point. Stop at the Osprey Cafe to refuel. Then jump in a canoe or take an afternoon boat tour of Clearwater/ Azure Lakes. After a hearty meal in town return to your base camp for an evening of stargazing.
OVERNIGHT HIKES Choose from self-guided hikes to: •
Trophy Mountain Skyline (12 km) •
Fight Lake (18 km)
•
Battle Mountain (29 km)
•
Table Mountain (14 km)
*Make sure to stop at the Visitor Information Centre for maps and trail condition updates. Or try a multi-day guided Hut-to-Hut hiking experience.
Tip: Looking to explore Wells Gray Country in depth and detail? Visit BC Parks online to download map and trail information for Wells Gray and North Thompson Provincial Parks. ‘Exploring Wells Gray Park’ by Roland Neave is an in-depth guidebook for purchase that outlines the full history and detailed trip instructions for experiencing all of Wells Gray Country.
WILDLIFE
Where the Wild Things Are W
atch in awe as black bears graze by the roadsides. Count vibrant red spawning salmon swimming up Bailey’s Chute waterfall every August. Spot massive moose roaming snow-covered meadows.
Embark on guided wilderness tours to view bears, deer, wolves, beavers, and 250 species of bird life. Our boundless wilderness and diverse ecosystem means there’s no shortage of wildlife. Enjoy all of it without admission, feeding times or fences. We can’t predict where the wildlife will roam…they just naturally appear on the banks of the Clearwater and Murtle Rivers as you paddle past, in wildflower meadows as you climb mountain trails, or floating in thermal updrafts over lakes and campsites.
Not sure of your travel type? Take our quiz.
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HIKE
Glacier Lillies on Trophy Mountain with Raft Peak in view, Wells Gray Adventures
The world's most extensive sub-Alpine flower meadows are found in Wells Gray Park.
Wilderness, only a step away
HIKE
Largest sub-Alpine flower meadow in the Canada you imagined.
Trophy Mountain Flower Meadows, Wells Gray Adventures
A HIKER’S HAVEN From a simple stroll along the Clearwater or Murtle Rivers to multi-day treks high above the alpine, this region is a hiker’s haven offering choices for every skill level. All of our hikes are through dense wilderness trails or high alpine meadows and each has been categorized by difficulty level – be sure to learn before you go and be prepared.
WALK THROUGH HISTORY Well before the park was created, pioneering families staked their claim, cleared the land and built their homesteads in the shadow of Pyramid Mountain. Long abandoned and now being reclaimed by the forest, you can still catch a glimpse of the Ray Family Farm and the Majerus Homestead.
ALPINE MEADOWS If you’re after something a little more challenging, try the Trophy Mountain alpine meadows, a 45-minute hike through an old growth rainforest. One moment you’re deep in the trees and the next you’re standing in a rainbow of colour surrounded by blooming wildflowers.
HUT-TO-HUT For an alpine adventure you can only dream of, indulge in a guided hut-to-hut hiking experience for a full dose of off-the-grid splendour. Join Wells Gray Adventures for three, five and seven day excursions above the tree-line will have you climbing peaks, swimming in high-alpine lakes, napping in wildflower meadows and bedding down in wilderness cabins, making memories and friends along the way.
INTERPRETIVE You can easily explore the park on your own, but to understand the history, geology and wildlife that make up Wells Gray, you may want to hike with a local naturalist. Join Discover Wells Gray to learn the fascinating history of the park’s waterfalls, flower meadows, volcanic fields and mountain peaks on full and half-day treks and you’ll be inspired to head out on your own trails of discovery.
HIKE
CHASING WATERFALLS & VOLCANOES Born of volcanoes and carved by glaciers. Layered by time and the elements. Discover one of the most unique ecosystems in all of British Columbia: volcanic fields, ancient lava beds and some of the best fly-fishing in the Park. Follow the paths of receding glaciers, where Trophy Mountain’s alpine meadows now burst with colour in summer. Climb extinct volcanoes. Revel in a wilderness playground 3.5 million years in the making. Fire and ice created the waterfalls, rivers, lakes and mountains you see today. Volcanic eruptions followed by periods of great cooling created layer upon layer of volcanic rock, some more than 150 ft above the valley floor. Retreating glaciers followed, flooding rivers and lakes, creating the adventurefuelled playground you find today.
Wells Gray Park has 40 named waterfalls Moul Falls, a signature hike in Wells Gray Provincial Park
TOP 13 WATERFALLS IN WELLS GRAY
HIKE
Helmcken Falls – Plunging 141 metres to the canyon below, Helmcken Falls is the fourth highest waterfall in Canada. A short walk takes you to the viewing platform which is wheelchair accessible. Access is 49 kms up the Park road. Spahats Creek Falls – A 5 minute walk takes you to see volcanic rock deposits formed centuries ago. Watch from the platform as Spahats Falls plunges into a startling canyon. Access is 13 kms up the Park road. Moul Falls - A one-hour hike through the forest delivers you to the top of the falls. Continue to the base to experience the waterfall from behind the rush of water. Access is 25 kms up the Park road. Dawson Falls – A 10 minute hike through an old growth forest lets you watch water cascade over 200,000 year old lava beds. Access is 42 kms up the Park road. Mushbowl – Just downstream from Dawson Falls, watch the Murtle River split in two as it makes its way around Cambrian rock formations. Pull over after crossing the one-lane wooden bridge that straddles the river. Access 40 kms up the Park road Silvertip Falls – At 168 metres, this is one of the tallest falls in Wells Gray Park, hidden under Trophy Mountain. Stop at Vistor Centre for directions and road condition report. Triple Decker & Candle Creek Falls – A stunning three -tiered waterfall that marks the start of a 7km one-way hike down along the Clearwater RIver trail. Access 4km up the Park road at sign marked Woodlot 301. Helmcken Falls Rainbow Falls – From the far end of Azure Lake from the Rainbow Falls campground, follow signs through old growth forest to see as the falls cascade into Azure Lake. Sylvia & Goodwin Falls – A gorgeous 4 km hike from the very end of the Clearwater River Road delivers you to this upper cascade on the Mahood River. The same hike will deliver you to the lower cascade on the Mahood River. Marcus and Myanth Falls – After watching salmon jump at Baileys Chute, complete the 5 km, flat West Lake Loop through old growth forest and berry patches to see these falls. Access 59 kms up the Park road.
Silvertip Falls
Dawson Falls in Wells Gray Park
Silvertip Falls
Sylvia and Goodwin Falls Holly Louwerse Photography
PADDLE
Wells Gray Adventures guiding on the Clearwater/Azure Lake chain
Clearwater and Azure Lake Chain Clearwater and Azure Lakes offer you the beauty and serenity of the backcountry with easy access in the Cariboo Mountains. Located at the very end of the Park road, put your boat in right at the dock. Find your bliss with 16 campsites, 3 backcountry trailheads and waterfalls that cascade into the lake. Each lake is 22km long with a 500m portage between the lakes. See the BC Parks website for more information maps. Long for incredible adventure but not up for paddling? Take a boat tour (day or overight) up Clearwater and Azure Lakes with Clearwater Lake Tours. Need a guide? Try Clearwater Lake Tours, BC Backcountry Adventures, or Wells Gray Adventures. Need a canoe? Clearwater Lake Tours can outfit you with canoes and gear for your trip.
Murtle Lake Glide along Murtle Lake, the largest paddle-only lake in North America, and discover its many beautiful sandy beaches.
Murtle Lake
Murtle Lake is accesible from Blue River, BC (an hour north from Clearwater on the highway.) Visit BC Parks website to learn more. Rent a canoe at the lake with Murtle Canoes (www. murtlecanoes.com)
PADDLE
Paddle the pristine waters
of Clearwater/Azure Lake Chain and Murtle Lake—
two of the top five canoe trips in Canada.
where the wild things are — free of crowds, with plenty of wide, open spaces. Mushbowl Falls, one of the 39 named falls throughout Wells Gray Provincial Park
Clearwater Lake Tours (250) 674-2121 clearwaterlaketours.com • Full and half day boat tours in Clearwater & Azure Lakes • Guided day and overnight canoe trips to Rainbow Falls • Canoe rentals and outfitter
Visit the Osprey Cafe at Clearwater Lake, the only restaurant in Wells Gray Park
RAFTING
Go With the Flow WHITEWATER RAFTING AND KAYAKING Paddle churning white water rapids. Float along a slow running river or ride a watery roller coaster of chutes, volcanic canyons and flats. Kick back, relax and keep your eyes peeled for eagles, bears and high-jumping salmon. Experience an epic adventure that sets your pulse racing.
Riverside Adventures ventures down the Clearwater River Wells Gray Provincial Park includes two of the world’s largest rivers (by volume) to occur within an entirely protected area. (Clearwater & Murtle Rivers) The Clearwater River, with its churning Class I - IV rapids, lush mountain backdrop, gaping volcanic canyons and wildlife seen roaming its shores, is always the star of the show. Interior Whitewater Expeditions on the Clearwater River
Selected by the Canadian Tourism Commission as a Signature Experience of a Lifetime, the Interior Whitewater Expedition ‘Do You Believe in Magic’ multi-day trip is the only multi-sport adventure to combine wilderness rafting, canoeing, and hiking in BC or Canada.
Take your pick of trips with three guiding companies ranging from several hours to several days for adults, and with some trips suitable for children.
Interior Whitewater Expeditions at Moul Falls on a full-day trip
RAFTING
MOUNTAIN BIKING
No Ordinary Day in the Park
TOP 6 MOUNTAIN RIDES IN WELLS GRAY COUNTRY Candle Creek Trails – 32 kilometers of forest loops groomed to international standards. (See trail map on page ) Clearwater River Road – Beautiful mountain vistas, moderate ride. Majerus Falls – Full day of hard-core riding, topped off with waterfalls. Green Mountain Road – 3.6 kilometer steep climb to the lookout tower. Whitehorse Bluffs Trail – Drink in views of Clearwater River & Green Mountain. Blackwater, Stillwater, McLeod Hill and South Murtle Trails – 30 kilometers of muddy-tire surprises. Need a bike rental or a guide? Contact Liquid Lifestyles (250) 674-3307, liquidlifestyles.ca.
Liquid Lifestyles on the trail overlooking the Clearwater Valley.
Fall colours in Vavenby, BC with Vavenby Trail RIdes.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Sit high in the saddle on a horseback adventure
Vavenby Trail Rides Guided rides on a scenic, working cattle ranch. Lots of options. All ages welcome. Maximum 8 riders. The Shook Ranch Vavenby, B.C. 250-676-9598 edshook@hotmail.com vavenbytrailrides.ca
FISHING
Wells Gray Country is a worldrenowned destination for fresh water fishing. It’s easy to find your own quiet spot on our lakes and rivers. Looking for a fishing getaway? Try Star Lake Resort.
Fly fishing on the Clearwater River
GOLF
With two courses to choose from, you can enjoy the Canada you Imagined from the golf course. Try Lacarya Golf and RV Park & Wells Gray Golf Resort and RV Park.
Wells Gray Golf Resort and RV Park
Flight See
Experience the incredible mountains, volcanoes, waterfalls, and rivers of Wells Gray from the sky.
Take a flight tour with Wells Gray Air to see some of Wells Gray Park’s 22 volcanoes. Longing to fly like the birds do? Thrill seekers will love trying a tandem paragliding experience over the North Thompson Valley with XSky Paragliding.
FLY
From live music to curated art exhibitions, Wells Gray Country has a lively arts scene.
ARTS & CULTURE EVENTS
Thursday nights in the Summer enjoy live music at the Dutch Lake Community Centre, courtesy of the North Thompson Music Guild. Serenity Music hosts music shows all year-round and is home to the three-day Harvest Music Festival every September. The North Thompson Arts Council hosts gallery exhibits all year-long at the Dutch Lake Community Centre. The North Thompson Aboriginal Centre at the Visitor Information Centre displays Aboriginal artwork and crafts as well as providing cultural programming. Clearwater Canoe Regatta
The swimming dock on Dutch Lake Dutch Lake Beach, Clearwater, BC Beach in Clearwater, B.C. Live music at Serenity Music Centre for the Performing Arts
EVENTS
January & February • Ice Fishing Derby, Dutch Lake • Birchleg Nordic X-Country Ski Race at the Candle Creek Trails • Clearwater Winter Festival
March & April •
May & June •
•
20, Clearwater May Day Parade • 20-22, May Long Weekend • 17 & 18, Summer Solstice Disc Golf Tournament • Watch waterfalls roar at their peak volumes
July •
August •
• • •
• Simpcw First Fish Ceremony • Clearwater Children’s Art Festival Thursday Night Concert Series at Dutch Lake Community Centre (Weekly) • Stargazing Festival
October & November
April is the month to meet the new lambs at the Aveley Ranch in Birch Island Simpcw First Nation’s Women’s PowWow in Chu Chua
1, Canada Day Celebrations at Dutch Lake Beach 21, Aboriginal Day Celebrations 21, Clearwater Kayak Festival Thursday Night Concert Series at Dutch Lake Community Centre (Weekly)
September • • • •
9, Clearwater Canoe Regatta & BBQ 8-10, Serenity Harvest Music Festival 22, Banff Travelling Film Festival 23, Wells Gray Wilderness Race
December
• Fall is the best time to see the golden colours of leaves •
Rotary Christmas Tree Light-Up
W
S
N
Clearwater Lake Lookout
oo d
Sylvia Falls Goodwin Falls
ah
M
E
Ri r
ve
Falls Creek Campground, Osprey Falls / Clearwater Lake Campground
Strenuous Wilderness Route
Dragon’s Tongue Trail
Murtle River/Mushbowl Parking
Pyramid Campground
Green Mtn. Road / Placid Lake Trailhead
Dawson Falls Viewpoint
Bee Farm
Smith Lake Trail
p em H
ek e Cr
Trout Creek
T
PUBLIC TRANSIT STOP
Helmcken Falls Rim Trail
Helmcken Falls Viewing Platform
Pyramid Campground
Pyramid Mtn. Horseshoe Falls Trailhead
Redspring Picnic Area
Deer Creek Picnic Area
42.4 km
49 km
45.5 km
45 km
51.3 km
54.1 km
56 km
56.8 km
Ray Farm / Mineral Springs Trail Horseshoe (Clearwater River Access)
58.5 km
59.3 km Alice Creek Picnic Area, Mineral Spring Trail
Bailey’s Chute Viewing Platform, West Lake Loop Trail
63.1 km
Shadow Lake VIEWING POINT / PLATFORM WATER FALLS
65.7 km
66.6 km Zellars Lake
Norman’s Eddy
67.9 km
69 km
71.3 km
76 km
CAMPGROUND
LAKE
PICNIC AREA
Falls Creek Campground, Osprey Falls & Clearwater Lake Campground
Lakeshore Trail
PARKING PARK INFORMATION
Boat Launch / Easter Bluffs Trail
Clearwater Lake Lookout
TRAILS & HIKES
ATTRACTION
(Distance from Information Centre in Clearwater is indicated in kilometres.)
Southern Wells Gray Park-Road Access Map and Legend
PARK INFORMATION BOARD
Majerus Farm Trailhead
Pyramid Mtn./ Horseshoe Falls Trailhead
Redspring Picnic Area
Deer Creek PicnicArea
Ray Farm / Mineral Springs Trail & Horseshoe (Clearwater River Access)
West Rim/White Horse Bluff Trailhead
Helmcken Falls Rim Trail
Helmcken Falls Viewing Platform
Alice Lake
Bailey’s Chute Viewing Platform / West Lake Loop Trail
Shadow Lake
Zellars Lake
Norman’s Eddy
Alice Creek Picnic Area / Mineral Spring Trail
Lakeshore Trail
Boat Launch / Easter Bluffs Trail
Clearwater River
ake
k
ter L
Cree
rwa
Falls
Clea
er River
Clearwat
wellsgray.ca ellsg
OVERVIEW MAP
Wells Gray Provincial Park
Mahood Lake / Sylvia Falls / Goodwin Falls Trailhead Green Mtn. Viewing Tower / Foot Lake Trail eek
Shaden Viewpoint of Clearwater River
Start of Clearwater River Trail
Candle Creek Falls
Clearwater River Road
Access to Battle Mountain Hike
Flat Iron Trailhead
Silvertip Falls Recreation Site
5
CLEARWATER VISITOR INFO CENTRE
Candle Creek Ski & Hiking Trails Parking
T Public Transit Stop
Access to Triple Decker Falls
Clearwater River Trail Access #2
Spahat Falls
Trophy Flower Meadow Access
Trophy Flower Meadows
Silvertip Falls Access
Moul Falls Trail
UPPER CLEARWATER
Moul Falls
Hemp Cr
33 km
Bee Farm
5 km 2 km
Candle Creek Ski Trails Parking Start of Clearwater River Trail
Goodwin Falls / Sylvia Falls
3.7 km
6 km
7 km
Triple Decker Falls Access
Mahood Lake Trailhead
7 km
10.5 km Candle Creek Ski trails and parking lot access through Greer sub-division
Clearwater River Trail Access #2
16 km
13 km
Spahat Falls Trophy Flower Meadow Access
19 km
18.5 km Silvertip Falls Recreation Site
Trophy Flower Meadows
Shaden Viewpoint of Clearwater
Trophy Flower Meadows / Silvertip Falls Access
23.6 km
25 km
Moul Falls Moul Falls Trail
28 km
37.2 km
30.6 km
41.3 km
Access to Battle Mountain Hike
Park Information Board
Flat Iron Trailhead
Green Mtn. Viewing Tower Foot Lake Trail
West Rim / White Horse Bluff Trailhead 40.2 km
33 km
41.5 km
Majerus Farm Trailhead Smith Lake Trail
43.2 km
37.7 km
42 km
Murtle River / Mushbowl Parking
Green Mtn. Road & Placid Lake Trailhead
Dawson Falls Viewpoint
WINTER
The Wonder
Helmcken Falls in the Winter
of Winter
B
reathe in the crisp, cold air. Marvel at waterfalls frozen in spectacular ice columns. Feel snow crunch beneath your boots. Listen to snowflakes fall on your jacket. Marvel at mountains and trees sparkling under a blanket of snow and a bright blue sky. It feels as though you have the whole place to yourself. This is winter in Wells Gray and Clearwater, one of our best-kept secrets. We know winter. We should – we have six months of it! In a land created by cold and ice, we have plenty of ways to work up a sweat. Embrace the chill. Carve fresh tracks over new fallen snow. Ski tour the backcountry from hut-to-hut. Cosy up by a fire. Watch moose migrate through distant meadows. Savour the solitude of Wells Gray in the offseason between November and April.
Experience winter in its purest form.
Raft Peak overlooking Dutch Lake
WINTER
WINTER
Candle Creek Cross Country Ski Trails
TOP 10 WINTER ADVENTURES • •
• • • • • • • •
Legendary snowshoeing trails on B.C. powder in Wells Gray Provincial Park Over 100 kilometers of groomed and tracked trails x-country trails – a different course each day! (Try the Majerus Farm Loop in Wells Gray Park and the Candle Creek Cross-Country Ski trails in Clearwater) Take a snow-taxi up for exclusive access to Clearwater Lake and try winter canoeing! (Clearwater Lake Tours) Challenge yourself skiing hut-to-hut in the Trophy Mountains (Wells Gray Adventures) Snowmobile in the Nehalliston Plateau, also known as “The Management” Witness wildlife like moose, eagles and pine martens See the ice cones form at Helmcken and Spahats Falls Try your luck at ice fishing on Dutch Lake in Clearwater Experience the unique Birchleg, a Viking themed Cross-Country Ski race held in February every year (Wells Gray Outdoors Club) Bring the family for skiing on B.C.’s only community run ski-hill in Clearwater
WINTER Canada's Great White North
I
t’s perfectly fitting that Wells Gray Park in Canada’s Great White North offers some of BC’s finest Nordic skiing. We know snow, after all – we get between three and four metres of fine white powder each year! Explore more than 100 kilometers of groomed and tracked trails, or create your own path in our untracked backcountry and conquer winter in true Canadian style. For those that prefer a calmer experience, ski or snowshoe four different trail systems in Wells Gray Country. Candle Creek Trails – a 25 kilometer track-set trail, perfect for all levels. The 36 kilometer Murtle River Trail winds along the river to the Majerus Homestead and beyond. Green Mountain’s groomed 18 kilometer trail features far-reaching scenes of Clearwater Lake, Whitehorse Bluffs and the mists of Helmcken Falls. If adrenaline is the name of your game, gear up for an adventure that’s inaccessible to most – ski touring the park’s backcountry on a guided hut-to-hut adventure with Wells Gray Adventures. Arrive in the legendary Trophy Mountains in pure backcountry style atop a snowcat. Strap on your skis and take off, carving your signature into champagne powder on untouched slopes. For exclusive access to the upper portions of Wells Gray Park, hop in a snow-taxi with Clearwater Lake Tours and you will have the Park to yourself. Cozy up on an outfitted tour to Clearwater Lake. Try winter canoeing and snowshoeing in utter and pristine winter bliss.
Snow Taxi, Clearwater Lake Tours
Snowshoeing, Wells Gray Adventures
Wells Gray Outdoors Club Candle Creek Warming Hut
397 23
WHERE TO STAY
B&B’s
GUEST ROOMS
HOTELS
6
5 RESORTS FULL SERVICE
CABINS
FOUR
RANCHES
+ CHALETS
72
ACCOMMODATIONS A 784 M P 2 6 4 2 TWO SANIDUMP O U 252 296 T REGISTERED CAMP & RV SITES
F U L L HOOK-UP SITES
PROVINCIAL PARKS
RV SITES
LAKESIDE SITES
STATIONS
Moul Creek B&B
Get a Good Night's Sleep
WHERE TO STAY
T
he right place to stay can turn a good vacation into a great vacation. Finding a place in Wells Gray might seem easy. Making your choice is where it gets hard.
HOTELS & MOTELS
B&Bs/INNS
Whether it’s the midway point of your road trip or the
Stay with descendants of our earliest pioneers.
end of a day filled with Wells Gray adventures – you’ll
Unwind with wildlife right outside your window. Share
need to rest up before carrying on. Know that the
stories of your daily adventures with fellow travellers
welcome mat is always out at our roadside hotels and motels; offering comfortable, clean and affordable accommodations.
RANCH STAYS
you’ll meet over breakfast. Make yourself at home at our world-renowned, top-rate, B&Bs and country inns.
CAMPING & RVing
Indulge your inner-cowboy with a stay at a western
Fall asleep to the music of a rushing river. Wake-
guest ranch. Each ranch offers a unique experience
up with the sun peaking through your tent flap.
to slip away from your workday world and into the
Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday
old west. Whether you’re looking for a place to rest
life, reconnect with the natural world and with each
up after a day of discovery or seeking the full cowboy
other. Make camp by the river, by the lake or in the
experience, there’s a ranch stay option that’s just right
shadow of mountains. There’s no better way to
for you.
experience our backyard wilderness than to pitch a tent (or park an RV) in it.
HOTELS, LODGES, RANCHES & RESORTS Ace Western Motel 250-674-2266 Alpine Meadows Resort 250-587-6368 Clearwater Country Inn 250-674-3121 Clearwater Lodge 250-674-3080 Clearwater Springs Ranch 250-999-9638 Clearwater Valley Resort 250-674-3909 Dutch Lake Motel 250-674-3325 Dutch Lake Resort 250-674-3351 Helmcken Falls Lodge 250-674-3657 Jasper Way Inn 250-674-3345 Moose Camp 250-674-3275 Fishing Resort Nakiska Ranch 250-674-3655 Star Lake Resort 250-674-8494 Watuga Village Cabins 250-674-0085 & Motel Wells Gray Guest Ranch 250-674-2792 Wolfwood Guest Ranch 250-674-2126
Across the Creek Cabins Where wilderness and comfort meet To book, contact us at: info@acrossthecreekcabins.com 250-674-2536
429 Murtle Crescent acewesternmotel.com 3400 Dunn Lake Road alpinemeadowsresort.com 485 Eden Road clearwatercountryinnandrvpark.com 331 Eden Road clearwaterlodge.ca 6584 Corral Road clearwaterspringsranch.com 373 Clearwater Valley Rd clearwatervalley.com 333 Roy Road dutchlakemotel.com 361 Ridge Drive dutchlake.com 6664 Clearwater Valley Road helmckenfalls.com 57 Old N. Thompson Hwy Rd jasperwayinn.com Rioux Lake moosecampfishingresort.com 5944 Trout Creek Road nakiskaranch.bc.ca 1380 Clearwater 100 Mile FSR starlakefishingresort.com 734 Clearwater Village Road wataugavillage.ca 5565 Clearwater Valley Road wellsgrayranch.com 6176 Trout Creek Rd wolfwoodguestranch.com
160 Acre ranch with small private lake, creek and trails surrounded by Wells Gray Park, just 20 minutes to Helmcken Falls • 1 and 2 bedroom heritage cabins • Family Friendly • Hot breakfast included
Wilderness Survival and Traditional Skills School We offer a large range of bushcraft, wilderness and primitive skills including shelter building, trap making, handcrafting primitive tools and friction fires. Our classes are taught by experienced instructors to fit your needs whether you have a few hours or a few days. Fun for all skill levels young and old. 250 674 2126 • wolfwoodguestranch@gmail.com •6176 Trout Creek Rd, Clearwater BC V0E 1N1
Welcome to the 429 Murtle Crescent Clearwater, BC
1-250-674-2266 acewesternmotel@gmail.com
Entrance to Wells Gray Park Shopping Centre Just Across 42 Comfortable Rooms Free Wifi Pet Friendly Tennis Courts Onsite Restaurant Onsite
The road into Wells Gray Park
CAMPGROUNDS, RV SITES, AND PARKS
BC Parks
North Thompson Provincial Park 250-587-2090 env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks Wells Gray Provincial Park 250-587-2090 env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks -Includes Clearwater Lake, Falls Creek, and Pyramid Campgrounds
Private Campgrounds
Birch Island Campground & RV Park Country Inn & RV Park Dutch Lake Motel & RV Park Dutch Lake Resort & Campground KOA Campground Lacarya Golf Course & RV Park Wells Gray Golf & RV Resort
250-674-3771
88 Walker Road
250-674-3121 250-674-3325 250-674-3351 250-674-3909 250-587-6100 250-674-0009
485 Eden Road clearwatercountryinnandrvpark.com 333 Roy Road dutchlakemotel.com 361 Ridge Drive dutchlake.com 373 Clearwater Valley Road clearwatervalley.com 1480 Old N. Thompson Hwy lacaryagolf.com 6624 Clearwater Valley Rd wellsgraygolfresortandrvpark.com
www.clearwatervalleyresort.com
birchislandcampground.ca
250-674-3918
CABINS, BED AND BREAKFASTS (B&Bs) Across the Creek Cabins Beaver Lake Homestead Blue Grouse Country Inn Cabin Creek B&B Canadian Bear Guesthouse Cedar Haven Cabins Garden View Cottage B&B Gateway B&B Half Moon Guest House Kicking Horse B&B Ludtke Cottage Moul Creek Lodge B&B Riverside Guesthouse Stoneshire Guesthouse B&B Tanglewood Lodge The Lake House B&B Wooly Acres B&B Wyndhaven Cottage
250-674-2536 250-587-6101 250-674-0200 250-674-6464 250-674-3441 250-674-2389 250-674-2777 250-674-2606 250-674-4199 250-587-6160 250-999-9638 250-674-4015 250 674 0001 250-674-3307 250-674-3537 250-674-5198 250-674-3508 250-674-3221
5136 Clearwater Valley Road 3242 Dunn Lake Road 5177 Clearwater Valley Road 41 Lakeview Road 580 Park Drive 857 Barber Road 340 Robson Street 202 Murtle Road 625 Greer Road 1106 Old North Thompson Hwy 6584 Corral Road 5109 Clearwater Valley Road 58 Young Road 332 Dutch Lake Road 1060 Clearwater Valley Road 309 Harby Road 320 Sunshine Valley Road 391 Wyndhaven Place
acrossthecreekcabins.com beaverlakehomestead.ca bluegrousecountryinn.com cabincreekbnb@icloud.com canadianbear2016@gmail.com cedarhavenresort.com bbgardenview@gmail.com gatewaygrill@live.ca halfmoonhostel.com Kickinghorsefarm.webs.com clearwaterspringsranch.com moulcreeklodge.com wellsgrayrafting.ca/guesthouse stoneshireguesthouse.com tnglwd.ca thelakehouseclearwater.com woolyacres@live.com wyndhavencottage@outlook.com
Congratulations to The Lake House B&B and Moul Creek B&B for being two of the top 25 B&B’s in all of Canada!
The historic Ludtke Cottage in Wells Gray
WHERE TO EAT
Bring Your Appetite F
uel your hunger exploring the wonders of Wells Gray. When it comes to where to eat Clearwater’s pubs, restaurants and cafes can satisfy your cravings. Savour local ingredients prepared with passion. Hungry yet?
Charcuterie at the Hop N’ Hog Tap and Smokehouse, Clearwater, BC
TREAT YOURSELF IN TOWN Watch water lilies floating steps away from your table. The Painted Turtle Restaurant on Dutch Lake offers full service all day with one of the best views of Dutch Lake. For delicious and locally sourced smoked meats, stop by the Hop ‘N’ Hog Tap and Smokehouse and wash down your meal with a local craft beer. Rated the best smokehouse in Canada! Try the Gateway Grill for expertly prepared favourites, paired with award-winning beer. Bring the family to enjoy North American classics at the Wells Gray Inn Restaurant. Fancy an ice cream or parfait? Step into the Strawberry Moose Snackery.
CLEARWATER FARMERS MARKET Open every Saturday from May-October (9AM-12PM) shop local produce, baked goods, and crafts. Grab a traditional logger’s breakfast hosted by the Royal Purple every week. Located on the lawn of the Interior Whitewater Expeditions building in Clearwater.
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The Osprey Café on the shores of Clearwater Lake serves homemade cakes and a warm “cuppa” (tea, coffee and more) to guests. You can watch the parade of hummingbirds flit and fly past your window seat while at the Helmcken Falls Lodge. Looking for a snack? Stop at the concession stand at Spahats Falls for Belgian waffles, handcrafted chocolates, and smokies.
PROVISIONS FOR THE PARK How do you fuel 5,250 square kilometers of postcard worthy wilderness and adventure? You do it with amenities like restaurants, shops, and a grocery store. Make sure you stock up in Clearwater before you venture into the park. See the full listing of restaurants in the directory.
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FARMERS
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SPORTS
BARS
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CAFE’S & COFFEE SHOPS
ACTIVITIES
Guides and Operators Blackwell Operations 250-587-2090 explorewellsgray.com Wells Gray Park Operator BC Backcountry Adventures 250-674-2792 bcbackcountryadventures.com Hike, Canoe, Horseback Clearwater Lake Tours 250-674-2121 clearwaterlaketours.com Canoe, Boat Tour, Camping Clearwater Ski HIll 250-674-4167 info@clearwaterskihill.com Downhill Ski Clearwater Sno-Drifters Club cssc-bcsf.silkstart.com Snowmobile Discover Wells Gray 250-674-2561 discoverwellsgray.com Hike Drift Boat Fly Fishing 250-674-2133 gandersk@telus.net Fishing Lacarya Golf Course 250-587-6100 lacaryagolf.com Golf Vavenby Trail Rides 250-676-9598 edshook@hotmail.com Horseback Riding Wells Gray Adventures 250-587-6444 skihike.com Backcountry Hike, Canoe, Ski Wells Gray Air 604-312-3598 wellsgrayair.com Flight Tour Wells Gray Golf Course 250-674-0009 wellsgraygolfresortandrvpark.com Golf Wells Gray Outdoors Club wellsgrayoutdoorsclub.ca X-Country Ski, Mountain Biking Western Trail Riding 250-674-4033 westernriding-bc.com Horseback Riding, Backcountry Xsky Paragliding 250-674-1108 xskyparagliding@gmail.com Paragliding
Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking
Interior Whitewater Expeditions250-674-3727 Liquid Lifestyles 250-674-3307 Riverside Adventures 250-674-0001
Canoe Rentals
Clearwater Lake Tours Murtle Canoes
250-674-2121 250-587-2090
Arts and Culture
North Thompson Aboriginal 250-674-3703 Cultural Society Canim Lake Band 250-397-2227 North Thompson Arts Council 250-674-3530 Serenity Performing Arts Centre250-676-9456 Simpcw First Nations 250-672-9995
Farms and Markets
Aveley Sheep Ranch Clearwater Farmers Market
Organizations
Chamber of Commerce
73 Old North Thompson Hwy 440 Eden Road 58 Young Road
interiorwhitewater.com liquidlifestyles.ca/about wellsgrayrafting.ca
Clearwater Lake Murtle Lake
clearwaterlaketours.com murtlecanoes.com
416 Eden Road
aboriginalculture.ca
100 Mile House, BC 209 Dutch Lake Road 2461 Lost Creek Road, Birch Island 500 Dunn Lake Road, Barriere
canimlakeband.com arts.ntac@gmail.com serenitymusic.ca simpcw.com
250-676-9574 250-674-3530
2721 Lost Creek Road, Birch Island aveleyranch.com 73 Old N. Thompson Hwy clearwaterfarmersmarket15@gmail.com
250-674-3530
209 Dutch Lake Road
Cake at the Osprey Cafe, Clearwater Lake
clearwaterbcchamber.com
B.C. Wines and Local Beer on Tap Nightly specials Patio Seating 368 Eden Road, Clearwater, BC 250-674-8758 www.gatewaygrill.ca gatewaygrill@live.ca
RESTAURANTS, BARS, AND CAFES Bear’s Den Cookhouse Double Dragon Restaurant Gateway Grill Hop N’ Hog O’Bryan’s Café Old Caboose Restaurant & Pub Osprey Café Painted Turtle Restaurant Strawberry Moose Snackery Wells Gray Inn Restaurant & Bar 52 Ridge Restaurant Fast Food A&W Clearwater Stop Dairy Queen Double R Pizza Tim Hortons
250-819-2373 250-674-3434 250-674-8758 250-674-3654 250-674-2141 250-674-2945 250-674-2121 250-674-3560 250-674-2123 250-674-2214 250-674-3909
369 E. Yellowhead Hwy South Highway 5, Across from Wells Gray Inn 318 Eden Road 117 Clearwater Station Road 365 Murtle Crescent
73 Old N. Thompson Hwy 125 Clearwater Station Road 368 Eden Road 444 Clearwater Valley Road 343 Clearwater Valley Road 260 Park Drive Clearwater Lake 361 Ridge Drive 415 Eden Road 228 Southern Yellowhead Hwy 373 Clearwater Valley Road
WEDDINGS
Dawson Falls, Holly Louwerse Photography
From engagement, to weddings, and anniversaries—our waterfalls are the perfect backdrop for expressing the power and beauty of your love. A romantic engagement in the forest. A rustic wedding on a ranch. A celebration of two lives joining together. Wells Gray Country is located along a major route about halfway between Vancouver and Edmonton making it a perfect Western Canadian wedding destination. Waterfalls, rivers, forests and flower meadows make for a wildly rustic wedding. It’s the recipe for an event you and your guests will remember. Top-notch caterers, venues, and world-class accommodations mean comfort for you and your guests.
WEDDINGS
Dessert at the Gateway Grill Restaurant, Clearwater, BC
TOWN MAPS
Clearwater and Blackpool are adjecent to North Thompson Provincial Park, an excellent site for RV and tent camping. The camping sites are along the confluence of the Clearwater and Thompson Rivers include access to important Simpcw First Nations heritage sites. North Thompson Provincial Park also has a playground and day-use/ picnic tables.
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North Thompson Provincial Park
Birch Island is a rural hamlet of Clearwater, BC. With its old timey general store, it’s home to B&Bs, farms, and a community park and playground. You can find attractions such as Serenity Music Performing Arts Centre.
TOWN MAPS
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Wells Gray Provincial Park
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Clearwater Shopping Centre
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LEGEND School
Lookout
Police Station
Swimming
Park | Playground
Post Office
Hospital
Skate Park
Gas Station
Liquor Store
Ambulance
Library
Ski Hill
Grocery Store
Fire Hall
Mountain Bike Trails
Bank
Medical Centre
Cross Country Skiing
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Vavenby is home to a quaint general store and is the basecamp for horseback adventures with Vavenby Trail Rides. It’s home to attractions such as the Aveley Ranch.
Visitor Information Centre
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NOTE: Kostal Lake Trail is closed
TOWN MAP
Getting Here PLAN
Clearwater and Wells Gray Country are located in the North Thompson Valley, about halfway along the well travelled route between Vancouver and Jasper. Wells Gray Provincial Park is accessible from the Town of Clearwater which is the “Gateway to Wells Gray Park�. Clearwater is approximately 477kms northeast from Vancouver and 123kms north of Kamloops. BY CAR- Located along major BC Highway 5, Clearwater is easily reached by car. Check Drive BC for current road conditions. BY PLANE- The nearest airport is in Kamloops, BC, from where you can rent a vehicle. BY TRAIN- For those travelling by train (Via Rail) between Vancouver and Jasper, you can request to be let off at the Clearwater Station. From there you will have to arrange your pick-up by taxi. BY BUS-Greyhound services the town of Clearwater, B.C.
For more ideas planning your trip in Wells Gray, visit wellsgray.ca. Looking for more to do in the North Thompson Valley? Visit norththompson.ca. Wells Gray Park Info Centre
WellsGray Park Info Centre
For Wells Gray Provincial Park maps, trail conditions, guided activities and accommodations booking, stop at the Wells Gray Visitor Information Centre. The Visitor Centre is located at the start of the Park road (Clearwater Valley Road) in Clearwater right off of B.C. Highway 5. The Centre features First Nations and natural history as well as hosts the North Thompson Aboriginal Centre. Enjoy free wi-fi and a gift shop. The Visitor Centre staff can help you plan your stay to make the most of your visit in the Canada you imagined. Wells Gray Park Information Centre 200-416 Eden Rd. Clearwater, BC V0E 1N1 Phone: 250-674-3334 Email: wellsgray@gmail.com This guide is owned and published by Tourism Wells Gray. For more information contact: manager@wellsgray.ca
Adventure Starts HERE
wellsgray.ca