Candle Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
237 m
About Candle Creek Falls
Candle Creek Falls is a small, forested cascade located near the coordinates provided (51.6834, -120.034) in the Clearwater/Central Interior region of British Columbia. The waterfall appears along Candle Creek and is set in typical Interior rainforest/cedar-hemlock mixed forest. Information about official facilities, maintained trails, and exact vertical drop is limited; descriptions below are conservative and may be incomplete.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Candle Creek Falls flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 252 million to 1.0 billion years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating the step that forms the waterfall.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Spahats Falls (60 m) lies 6.0 kilometres to the north. Also nearby: Second Canyon Falls (15 m, 9.7 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.0-km out-and-back trail gains 237 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail information is sparse and descriptions from visitors suggest a short undeveloped walk from a roadside pullout to a viewpoint. Expect uneven, possibly steep or muddy sections and short bushwhack-style approaches in places. Trails may be unmarked and use of navigation (map/GPS) and route-finding skills may be necessary. Surface can be slippery near the creek and falls due to wet rocks and moss.
What to Expect
A modest, wooded cascade with moss-covered rocks and typical Interior BC forest vegetation. Water flow is seasonal: highest in spring snowmelt and after heavy rains, lower in late summer and early fall. There are likely no amenities (toilets, signage, railings). Cell service may be spotty. Wildlife of the region (deer, small mammals, and potentially bears) can be present.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Candle Creek Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Candle Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (late snowmelt) for the strongest flows; early summer for good access and green forest. Late summer and fall can have lower flows but offer drier road/trail conditions. Winter access may be difficult or require winter skills and equipment.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards may include: slippery and unstable rocks near the creek and falls; unmarked or faint trails; seasonal high flows and cold water temperatures; variable forest service road conditions (mud, washouts, ruts); potential encounters with wildlife including bears. Use caution near cliff edges and do not climb on wet rock. If forest operations are active in the area, keep a safe distance and obey signage.
Current Water Conditions
805.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 86 years of record
5.01 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The falls are accessed from forest service roads and local access routes near Clearwater, BC. From Clearwater, expect to drive on paved and then unpaved forestry roads; conditions can vary and high-clearance vehicles are often recommended outside summer dry-season conditions. Exact turnoffs and distances are not well-documented publicly, use local maps, a recent forest service map, or contact the Clearwater Visitor Centre / BC Parks for the latest routing.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking appears to be informal (small pullouts or roadside parking). There may be limited space and no formal parking lot or facilities. Park off the road safely and avoid blocking forestry traffic.
Elevation
495 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.683412° N, -120.034014° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Check current forest service road conditions and local visitor centre information before you go. • Wear sturdy footwear with good traction; expect muddy or slippery sections. • Bring navigation (map and GPS), trailheads and turnoffs may be unmarked. • Respect private property and active forestry operations; do not park where you block equipment or gates. • Practice Leave No Trace, pack out all garbage. • Be bear-aware: carry bear spray and know how to use it when in bear country.
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With 4.0 km and 237 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Clearwater Valley Resort
3.4 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Clearwater town services and access to Wells Gray Provincial Park (notable falls in the region include Helmcken Falls and Spahats Falls). Exact driving distance to major park attractions varies depending on the route; verify with local maps.
Wildlife
Typical Interior BC wildlife: black bears, deer, small mammals, waterfowl, and various bird species. Be cautious at dawn/dusk and store food securely.
Nearby Waterfalls
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