Goodwin Falls
British Columbia • Wells Gray Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
5.3 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Goodwin Falls
Goodwin Falls is a small forested cascade located in the interior of British Columbia (coordinates: 51.9265, -120.2223). It appears to sit on a tributary creek in a typical Cariboo‑range mixed conifer forest. Flow and character are likely seasonal, with highest water in spring snowmelt and lower flows in late summer and early fall. Detailed, official information (height, formal trailhead) is limited or not readily available; the following notes are based on typical conditions for small interior‑BC roadside/forest waterfalls and should be treated as approximate.
The Setting
Goodwin Falls sits at 590 metres within Wells Gray Park, in the hills of British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Goodwin 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
Helmcken Falls (141 m) lies 4.3 kilometres to the northeast. Also nearby: Sylvia Falls (20 m, 0.2 km) and Cougar Falls (20 m, 4.5 km).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is no widely published or maintained trail description for Goodwin Falls. Access, if possible, is likely via a short, informal footpath or a short bushwhack from a nearby roadside pullout. Expect uneven ground, tree roots, and potentially steep or slippery approaches to the water. Trail conditions will vary with season and recent logging or forest management activity.
What to Expect
A small, likely picturesque cascade in a mixed conifer forest. Expect limited or no developed infrastructure (no toilets, railings, viewing platforms). Water flow is likely highest during spring freshet and after heavy rains; summer flows may be reduced. The immediate area will have typical interior‑BC undergrowth, ferns, mosses, alder, and conifers, and insects in warmer months.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Goodwin Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Goodwin Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring (snowmelt) for fullest flows and early summer for reliable access. Late summer and fall may have reduced flows but offer drier access and fall color. Winter access may be limited by snow and icy conditions; approach only with appropriate winter gear and local knowledge.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Wells Gray Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards may include: slippery rocks and wet approaches, steep or unstable banks, fast water flow during spring freshet, limited or no cell service, seasonal road closures, and active forestry operations. Always tell someone your plans, carry navigation aids, and check local forestry and road advisories. Use caution near the water's edge, rocks can be very slick and falls are a common hazard.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 32 km away
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
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Goodwin Falls is in a remote interior‑BC forested area. Expect to reach the general location via secondary logging or forest service roads off the nearest provincial highway. Specific turnoffs and maintained trailheads are not well documented; a high‑clearance vehicle may be required for final road sections. Cell coverage may be intermittent, download maps or carry a GPS track if available.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There may be only an informal roadside pullout or no developed parking. Park well off the travel lane, avoid blocking gates or timber access, and be prepared to walk a short distance from the road. If you cannot find a designated parking area, consider choosing another site with official facilities.
Elevation
590 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.926521° N, -120.222282° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Treat directions and access as approximate, confirm local road and logging conditions before you go. • Use a high‑clearance vehicle for unpaved forest roads; avoid low vehicles in wet conditions. • Wear sturdy footwear with good traction; approach the stream carefully on wet rocks. • Pack out all waste; there are likely no services. • Be bear aware: make noise on approach, carry bear spray where permitted, and store food securely. • Respect private property and forestry operations; do not block gates or access roads.
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
East Maury Lake Recreation Site
6.4 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Specific nearby attractions are not well documented in public resources for this pinpoint location. The broader region typically offers backcountry lakes, forest trails, and scenic drives common to interior British Columbia; verify local destinations before travel.
Wildlife
Typical interior‑BC wildlife may be present: black bear, moose, deer, small mammals, and birds. Insect activity (mosquitoes, black flies) can be significant in spring and early summer.
Nearby Waterfalls
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