Words can not describe the sheer intensity of this waterfall. No doubt this is one of the greatest waterfalls in the world, as well as one of the most powerful waterfalls on the North American continent as well. Based on a scale conceived by Greg Plumb, author of the book A Waterfall Lovers Guide to the Pacific Northwest, Helmcken Falls is probably in the top 5, behind the likes of Niagara and Yosemite Falls. If that's not enough to get you excited about this waterfall, the view will. The falls are viewed from a perch over 175 meters feet above the canyon floor. During the winter, a massive 60m tall cone of ice forms around the base of the falls, no doubt one of the most interesting spectacles around. I've been told this is a tourist magnet (and why wouldn't it be), but there were only 7 or 8 others there when I was. I guess the best time to come is just before noon on a weekday.

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Located in Wells Grey Provincial Park. From the Yellowhead Highway in Clearwater, follow the Clearwater Valley Road, signed for Wells Grey Park, for about 44 kilometers, and turn left at the sign pointing towards Helmcken Falls (this is after crossing the Myrtle River). Follow the Helmcken Falls road for about 6 km to its end at the parking area and viewpoint. Alternatively, there is a 4 kilometer trail which follows the Murtle River on the opposite bank, to closer views of the falls from the other side of the canyon.

Helmcken Canyon is quite imposing, so during the early and later hours of the day, the light will probably be uneven. In the summer, the sun illuminates the falls very nicely late in the afternoon, producing some excellent dramatic lighting studies.

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