McDiarmid Falls
British Columbia • Wells Gray Park • 10 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
6.0 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
About McDiarmid Falls
McDiarmid Falls is a waterfall on Grouse Creek in Wells Gray Provincial Park, east-central British Columbia, Canada. It is located 100 m (328 ft) downstream from Moul Falls and 150 m (492 ft) upstream from Grouse Creek's confluence with the Clearwater River.
The Setting
McDiarmid Falls sits at 552 metres within Wells Gray Park, in the hills of British Columbia. The falls drop 10 metres.
Height: 33 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Approaches to McDiarmid Falls are likely short but informal: expect a walk through mixed forest on uneven ground, possibly down a short, steep, or braided social trail to the creek and falls. Trails may be unmarked and muddy or rocky. Route-finding and basic off-trail skills may be required.
What to Expect
The falls drop 10 metres.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at McDiarmid Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at McDiarmid Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (snowmelt) for highest flow and strongest visuals; early summer often offers good access with still-strong flow. Late summer and fall may have lower flows but better road access and fewer bugs. Winter access may be limited or hazardous due to snow and ice.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Wells Gray Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards may include: slippery and unstable banks and rocks near the waterfall; fast cold water and strong currents especially in spring; sudden changes in flow from rain or upstream releases; limited or no cell coverage in remote areas; rough or gated forest roads that may be impassable without high-clearance or 4x4 vehicles; winter ice and snow making access hazardous. Use caution near edges, avoid climbing on wet rocks, travel with a companion if possible, and tell someone your plans.
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
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Located in central British Columbia at the provided coordinates. Access typically requires driving onto gravel/forest-service roads; the final approach may be on an unofficial or unmarked trail. Visitors should consult local maps or regional district/BC Parks information and check current road conditions before travel. A high-clearance vehicle may be helpful depending on road conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Likely roadside or an informal pullout on a forest service road. No confirmed developed parking lot or facilities. Park off the road clear of gates and avoid blocking access.
Elevation
552 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.833729° N, -120.051990° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Check current road and weather conditions before you go; forest roads can be rough and may require a high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle. 2) Expect minimal signage and bring a map/GPS with the coordinates. 3) Wear sturdy footwear, streamside rocks and trails can be slippery. 4) Practice Leave No Trace; pack out all waste. 5) Be aware of wildlife (bears, cougars, moose) and take appropriate precautions. 6) Avoid getting too close to the lip or unstable banks.
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
Trophy Mountain Buffalo Ranch
2.1 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Specific nearby attractions are not confirmed for this exact coordinate. The area is within interior BC where provincial parks, lakes, and forest recreation areas are common; consult regional tourism or BC Parks resources for nearby points of interest.
Wildlife
Typical interior BC wildlife may be present: black bears, deer, moose, small mammals, and potentially cougars. Also expect ticks and biting insects in warmer months.
Nearby Waterfalls
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