Activities
Horseback Riding
Horseback rides operated by Wells Gray Guest Ranch located 7 Minutes South of us.
The Wells Gray Guest Ranch, Elvira and Daniel's home and historic dude ranch, has specialized in summer vacations since 1984. The Ranch is one of the oldest operated guest ranches in the valley and is inside Wells Gray Park boundaries, approximately 7 km from Helmckenfalls Lodge, alongside the park road.
Summer Activities
Hiking
There are many hiking trails to explore whilst here in Wells Gray Provincial Park. Trails do differ & there are some for all fitness levels. So do speak to our friendly & knowledgable staff who will advise you on the best trails & sights to see whilst you are here. Some highlights of trails & sights to see are listed below.
Helmcken Falls
This is the 4th Largest waterfall in Canada & is a must see for everyone! You will be in awe when you see this spectacular falls. With a big parking area it is just a 2 minute walk to the viewing platform, this is a 15 minute drive from the Lodge. Fantastic photo opportunity - you will not be disappointed with what you see!!
Helmcken Falls Rim Trail
Trophy Mountain
These meadows are sub-alpine meadows & one of the easiest to access in BC. In late June early July they are abundant with glacier Lilies blooming, in early August the same meadows are full of vibrant colours when the mountain Daisy, Indian Paintbrush, arctic Lupine & other flowers bloom!
Green Mountain Road
Drive 4km up this road & you will see the Green Mountain Viewing tower with fantastic views along the Valley & information boards on the mountains that you can see. You can also access the Foot Lake & White Horse Bluffs Trails from here.
Majerus Farm
This is a 32km loop & is ideal for those that like a good days hiking or mountain biking.
This trail starts at the Warming Hut at the entrance to Wells Gray Provincial Park.
Bailey's Chute
This is a must see whatever time of the year you are here. This is a cool hike through old growth forest. In late August & early September watch the Salmon Leaping from the river - this is an amazing sight to experience!!
Guided Hiking & Canoeing:
If you prefer to have a guide with you when you go to see the sights on Clearwater Lake then this is an ideal trip, its a great trip for those that have never been canoeing but wish to try a canoe trip. Your guide will take you for a hike once you reach Eagle Point Lake. All safety equipment is provided & the guide will inform you of the history as you paddle up the Lake. For more information & prices please see www.clearwaterlaketours.com.
Boat Tours:
With an arrangement of tours available you will not be disappointed, from full day trips to 1 hour specials, all can be catered for. A full day trip will take in the sights of Clearwater Lake & Azure Lake. You will travel up the lake to Rainbow Falls. This trip includes lunch on the beach at Azure Lake, a hike to Rainbow Falls (optional) & canoeing. If a full day is not your thing or you just want a taster then why not do a 1 hour trip on the Electric Duffy Boat, this departs twice a day. Further information on these trips & more can be found at www.clearwaterlaketours.com.
Water Taxi & Canoe Rental:
If you wish to camp on one of the many beach campsites along the Clearwater Lake when not get a water taxi to take you & then just paddle down in a canoe or just get a return taxi. Canoe rental is also available & prices include, paddles, PFD's & safety equipment. For more information on these services see Clearwater Lake Tours website: www.clearwaterlaketours.com or email: info@clearwaterlaketours.com
River Rafting: Offered by three Companies in Clearwater!
This is one fun & exhilarating experience to be had by all. Suitable for all ages & fitness levels you will want to experience river rafting in Clearwater. Take in birds of nature, the wilderness settings & the canyon scenery. If you do not want the thrills & spills of all the rapids then why not take a scenic river float along the North Thompson River instead relax, stretch out & enjoy!! For more information check out the websites of the companies below to see what non stop water action they have in store for you:
Golf
If you enjoy a round or two of golf whilst on your vacation, or you have never played but wish to take part in this sport you will pleased to know that Helmcken Falls Lodge is situated right next door to a 9 hole golf course. Equipment is available for rental. For more information please contact Wells Gray Golf Resort on www.wellsgraygolf.bcresorts.com
Winter Activities
Experience the splendor of Wells Gray Provincial Park & Helmcken Falls in the winter!! Perfect for cross country skiing, snowshoeing & sledding nearby or just to relax & unwind. Come on your own or with a group of friends - either way you will have so much fun!
Winter Trail Fee usage is $5.00 per person per day on Maintained trails.
Helmcken Falls is a Must see in the winter!!
Marvel at the breathtaking Ice Cone that forms through the winter months. You will not be disappointed with what you see!!
Green Mountain
Green Mountain Viewing Tower has some fantastic views. Why not ski the newer trail added in 2010 that was added up on Green Mountain.
Snow Shoeing:
This is the fastest growing sport in Canada & we have perfect location to explore for both beginners & seasonal snow shoers alike. Speak to the Lodge staff & we will find a trail to fit your skills & fitness level to ensure that you have a wonderful experience!
Our ski trails are groomed so there are over 50km of wonderful packed trails for you to enjoy. If you are a little more adventurous the Helmcken Falls Rim Trail is a spectacular 10km round trip of about 3 hours depending on your skill & fitness levels.
There are many hiking trails perfectly suited for snow shoeing in the winter, lots of which have great opportunities for seeing moose, deer, owls, martins, hawks & woodpeckers. So make sure you have your camera to hand!!
Cross Country Skiing
We have over 50km of cross country ski trails for the perfect winter skiing experience in Wells Gray Provincial Park. You can ski right from the Lodge on to our ski trails!!
The Blackwater & Stillwater trails stretch out along the Murtle River & past Pyramid Mountain & return to Helmcken Falls Lodge. These trails total 35km & can be enjoyed by novices & advanced skiers. These trails are groomed & track set for classic skiing.
The Green mountain trail was opened up in 2010 for intermediate & above skiers. The Trail starts with a 4km uphill ski but is then followed by 14km of beautiful trail with a predominate downhill gradient. The last 3km is a real downhill thrill along the Green Mountain access road returning to the start point after an 18.1km ski loop.
Having achieved the first 4km you are rewarded with breathtaking views of Wells Gray from the purpose built wooden viewing tower. After this splendid photo opportunity you ski 5.8km past Foot Lake & out to the West side of Green Mountain. Here you get a 270 degree view of the Clearwater River valley from an amazing cliff edge vantage point, this is a wonderful spot for a packed lunch! You will then proceed north along the West Tote trail, connecting after 5km with the Green Mountain Access road for the thrilling downhill finale!!!
This trail is groomed but not track set, so it is ideal for classic & skate skiing. We also have an abundance of back country skiing available on our large network of summer hiking trails, many of which are easily accessible in the winter.
Tell us your skill level & we will ensure you take the trails that give you the most enjoyment for your abilities.