Cougar Falls
British Columbia • Wells Gray Park • 20 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (5)
About Cougar Falls
Cougar Falls is a quietly scenic waterfall located within Wells Gray Provincial Park in British Columbia, managed by the Government of British Columbia. Nestled among the park’s forests and waterways, the falls offer a pleasant destination for visitors exploring Wells Gray’s natural features. The park designation means the area is protected and maintained by provincial authorities, so visitors can expect a largely natural setting rather than developed infrastructure immediately at the site. For overnight visitors, Pyramid Campground is the nearest formal camping area, approximately 4.63 km from Cougar Falls, making it a convenient base for day visits to the falls and surrounding trails. Before heading out, check current park maps and local guidance from park managers to confirm access and any seasonal advisories; the park office can provide up-to-date information to help plan a safe, enjoyable visit.
The Setting
Cougar Falls sits at 744 metres within Wells Gray Park, in the hills of British Columbia. The falls drop 20 metres.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Cougar Falls flows over hard volcanic rock, primarily basalt, laid down about 3 million years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating a 65-foot drop where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Helmcken Falls (141 m) lies 0.2 kilometres to the southeast. Also nearby: Dawson Falls (20 m, 3.9 km) and Mushbowl (6 m, 3.4 km).
Trail & Hike Details
What to Expect
The falls drop 20 metres over hard volcanic rock.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cougar Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cougar Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 34.3 km away
382.0 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 87 years of record
3.70 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
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the WSC gauge CLEARWATER RIVER NEAR CLEARWATER STATION (34 km away).
Today
Moderate
430 m³/s
4/10Tomorrow
Moderate
432 m³/s
5/10Tue
Moderate
388 m³/s
8/10Wed
Moderate
360 m³/s
6/10Thu
Moderate
347 m³/s
6/10Fri
Moderate
387 m³/s
4/10Sat
Moderate
395 m³/s
6/10Best window: Tue — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early May to early August, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest WSC stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Elevation
744 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.955877° N, -120.178596° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
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
Pyramid Campground
4.6 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Cougar Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across Canada.
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