Clearwater River Trail

Trail Name: Clearwater River Trail
Distance:  7.7 kms
Time:  2.5 hours
Difficulty: Medium
Cell Service: No
Dog friendly: Yes, on-leash
Trail: Single track forested trail
Highlights: Triple Decker Falls, Candle Creek Falls, Osprey Viewpoint

To get there: This hike is located just north of Clearwater at the south end of Wells Grey Park. Take the Yellowhead Hwy (5) about 120km north from Kamloops.  When you arrive at the roundabout in Clearwater, take the 3rd exit to head North on Clearwater Valley Rd.  After 3.8Km, you’ll pass Greer Rd on your right.  In about 500 meters, you’ll pass concrete barriers along the sides of the road.  You’ll see a small pull out immediately on your left just past these barriers. You’ll also see a large dirty white sign that mentions ‘Woodlot 301’.  Park here. Get directions from Google Maps here.

This trail is best done with two vehicles (or with bikes). Leave one vehicle at the end of Dutch Lake Road, and take the second vehicle to the trailhead. The trail starts with a steep descent and a side trail to Triple Decker Falls. We highly recommend popping down to see the falls. Return to the main trail and continue to descend. At one point, there will be some rope alongside the trail to help guide you down an especially steep section. At the bottom of the descent, there is a signed junction. Follow the trail to the left towards Candle Creek Falls. Next, you’ll come upon a sign for Osprey Viewpoint. Also well worth the short detour to a viewpoint overlooking the Clearwater River. Back on the main trail, continue down for another 15 minutes to Candle Creek Falls. These falls are a smaller, more private version of Moul Falls. Just like Moul falls, you can walk in behind the falls here too. Continue over the Candle Creek bridge and continue your descent. Next, you’ll pass alongside rock cliffs above you and along a dry river bed, before descending to the Clearwater River and Bubbly Rock. From here its a slight climb to the parking area at the end of Dutch Lake Road.

This trail is the perfect length for a good day’s hike. Triple Decker Falls has long been a favourite of ours and Candle Creek is now a close second. We love how private it is compared to Moul Falls. This trail is best done with two vehicles (or one vehicle and bikes) but can also be hiked from the Dutch Lake Road parking up and back down again. This trail is rated medium difficulty and would likely not be suitable for young children or those unsure on their feet. Be sure to wear proper hiking attire, shoes and pack out what you pack in.