Canada’s fourth highest waterfall is in B.C. and it freezes over into an ice cone every winter

Wells Gray Park is an incredible emblem of B.C.’s natural beauty. With 41 named waterfalls, it’s easy to see why it has become known as “Canada’s Waterfall Park.” It also protects the world’s only inland temperate rainforest, making it one of the most biodiverse parks in the province.

Canada’s fourth-highest waterfall

Among the many magical falls to discover is Canada’s fourth-highest waterfall, Helmcken Falls. Plunging 141 metres into the canyon below, the iconic falls can be enjoyed from a new scenic viewing platform that’s fully accessible. And in the wintertime, this breathtaking natural wonder becomes even more magical.

According to Tourism Wells Gray, the winter months transform the iconic park into “magnificent sculptures of snow and ice.” The road into the park, up to Helmcken Falls at 46 km, is maintained all winter long. So even when the park gates are closed, you can still get a front row seat to this eye-catching phenomenon.

Visitors can listen to the roar of the falls as the water pummels down onto an impressive ice cone at the base of the falls, which grows in size throughout the winter season. You may even be able to spot the icicles that form on the canyon wall.

On your way back from the falls, you’ll cross a one-lane bridge that leads to Mushbowl Falls, which boasts panoramic river and forest views. In the wintertime, the Mushbowl apparently grows a “blanket of snowcaps” atop the river rocks, with the flowing water transforming into an icy green.

Backcountry winter trails

Looking for other winter adventures to enjoy on your trip? The park is home to a number of backcountry skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities, though the cross-country ski areas are no longer groomed. So if you’re adept in your winter sport of choice and don’t mind unmaintained terrain, there’s no reason why you can’t go for it.

Just make sure to check the Avalanche Canada forecast ahead of your visit, and ensure you have all the necessary equipment.

Tourism Wells Gray says that the Trophy Mountain area has been popular with backcountry skiers in past seasons, and the same can be said about Majerus Farm, King Hut, and Stillwater Road for cross-country skiing. Snowshoeing is popular in the Corridor area.

While the park gates close on Dec. 11, 2025, most of the park will remain accessible, according to BC Parks. Some areas of the park may not be accessible by vehicle during the winter season, though visitors can still access them on foot.

How to get there: Drive five hours from Vancouver to Wells Gray Park via Trans – Canada Highway/BC-1 E, BC-5 N and Yellowhead Hwy/BC-5 N.

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