Things to Do

Fly fishing on the North Thompson River (Picture BC photo)

As the entry point into Wells Gray Provincial Park, Clearwater is a hub of outdoor adventure.

Fish well-stocked lakes near town, hike to vast fields of alpine flowers, golf at one of three 9-hole courses, whitewater raft on churning rivers, relax at a guest ranch, or enjoy food with a view at a lakeside restaurant. When a chill is in the air, hit the downhill-ski slopes or groomed cross-country ski trails.

Located 126km/78mi north of Kamloops, and about half way between Jasper, Alberta and Vancouver on the Yellowhead Highway (Highway 5), Clearwater is the largest community in the North Thompson Valley. Rich in culture and history, the town features historical and heritage sites, festivals celebrating nature, and events reflective of First Nations traditions. In and around this vibrant community an accessible and enriching way of life awaits exploration.

Summer Activities

For fishing aficionados, the Clearwater area is paradise, boasting 50 stocked lakes within an hour of the community. Fishing lodges and resorts such as Star Lake Fishing Resort and Moose Camp Fishing Resort provide comfortable getaways to rustic settings. Silent Sport Guided Fly Fishing offers both day-long and extended fishing excursions.

Need more of an adrenalin rush? Try whitewater rafting on the Clearwater River with Interior Whitewater Expeditions or Riverside Adventures, Tranquility seekers can boat/camp along Clearwater Lake and Azure Lake with Clearwater Lake Tours or Wells Gray Adventures. Launching a personal craft and camping at designated lakeshore sites is also an option.

Easy walks and rugged treks lead to spectacular natural features in the mountainous terrain. Trophy Mountain meadows is a 30-minute moderate hike ending among brightly colored fields of wildflowers that in July spread endlessly out to the horizon. Serious hikers can take a guided back-country tours, or hike hut to hut in the alpines of Wells Gray Provincial Park. Mountain bike tours are also available with 4 Seasons Mountain Experience.

Winter Activities

During the winter months cross-country skiers gain access to 85km/52mi of groomed trails in the Clearwater area, divided between the Candle Mountain Trail System and Wells Gray Provincial Park. The park also features backcountry skiing and snowshoeing along designated routes. A community ski hill awaits those wanting a downhill thrill. Experience the rushing sound of sled runners beneath as Alaska Husky Adventure dogs plow through frothy powder-like snow.

Festivals and Food

The First Fish Ceremony showcases the culture and history of the Simpcw First Nation – the original inhabitants of the North Thompson Valley – and the importance of the Raft River salmon run.

For a taste of Clearwater try a culinary tour. Not only are there a variety of unique dining possibilities in town, including the Old Caboose Restaurant, several guest ranches along the Wells Gray Corridor have restaurants dishing up such delicacies as buffalo steaks (fittingly at Trophy Mountain Buffalo Ranch Grill).

Wells Gray Provincial Park

What would a trip to Wells Gray Provincial Park be without viewing wildlife? Look for mule deer, black bear, coyote, moose, white tailed deer, badger, and salmon. Bears are seen mainly in May, June, and October; moose are spotted year round; and August and September are best for viewing Chinook salmon spawning.

Wells Gray Provincial Park is remarked for its primordial-like features and renowned for Helmcken Falls, Canada's fourth-highest waterfall and the park's iconic symbol. In winter, it forms a grandiose ice cone. The main observation deck has extensive information about the origins of the waterfall and its geological history.

Driving Routes

Access Clearwater's outdoor summer and winter activities, annual festivals. culinary tours, and nearby Wells Gray Provincial Park along the Lakes & Trails Circle Route. Find out more about driving routes through Clearwater here: Driving Routes.

Where to begin

Stop by the Clearwater Visitor Centre (at the entrance of Wells Gray Provincial Park on Yellowhead Highway 5) for more information about things to do in the area.

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