Purver Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.9 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Purver Falls
Purver Falls is a relatively remote waterfall in interior British Columbia near the coordinates 51.35, -121.0975. It appears to be on or near a small creek in a forested, mountainous area between Kamloops and Lillooet. The site is not a developed tourist facility and access is typically via forest or logging roads followed by an unmaintained footpath or short bushwhack to the creek and falls. Seasonal flow can vary widely (high in spring/snowmelt, lower late summer/fall). Specifics such as exact drop height and formal viewpoint infrastructure are not well documented and may be limited or absent.
The Setting
Purver Falls sits at 1,017 metres within CRATER LAKE PARK, in the mountains of British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Purver Falls flows over Chilcotin Group, a hard volcanic rock layer deposited about 0-23 million years ago. These resistant rocks form a durable ledge that water cannot easily wear away, creating the falls where softer material downstream has already eroded.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There does not appear to be a well-developed maintained trail to Purver Falls. Approaches are typically via forest roads to a roadside access point followed by a faint/unofficial path or short bushwhack down to the creek and falls. Terrain may be steep, uneven, and muddy or slippery near the water. Expect limited or no signage, no handrails, and no installed viewpoints, routefinding and careful footing are required.
What to Expect
Forest and mountain scenery typical of interior BC: conifer trees, rocky creek banks, and a relatively small but scenic cascade or drop. Water levels will be highest in spring (snowmelt) and lower in late summer/fall. The immediate area around the falls may be steep, with slippery rocks, wet roots, and loose scree. Cell service is likely intermittent or absent. There are likely no facilities (toilets, trash service) or established viewpoints.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Purver Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Purver Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring to early summer for the strongest flows and better road access once spring melt has opened unpaved roads. Summer offers drier access but lower flows; fall can be scenic but flows may be reduced. Winter is likely not recommended unless you have winter backcountry experience and know local avalanche/snow conditions.
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
Potential hazards include slippery rocks and ledges, steep drop-offs near the falls, fast or cold water (especially during spring melt), unstable or loose terrain, and poor cell coverage. Roads to access points may be rough, gated, or seasonally closed. Always check road and weather conditions, tell someone your route and expected return time, and do not approach the edge of slippery cliffs. Use extra caution after heavy rain or during spring runoff.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 27.6 km away
0.1 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 39 years of record
2.34 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Kamloops hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
General location: 51.35, -121.0975 in interior British Columbia (roughly between Kamloops and Lillooet). Expect to reach the area by driving local highways and then turning onto unpaved forest or logging roads. Roads may be rough and require clearance/4x4, and some sections may be seasonally closed or gated. Use a detailed map, GPS coordinates, and up-to-date local/forestry road conditions before attempting access.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Likely minimal: informal pullouts or small roadside parking on a forest service road. There may be no designated parking area, signs, or facilities. Park off the road safely and avoid blocking gates or forestry operations.
Elevation
1,017 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.350011° N, -121.097500° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Use the precise coordinates and a reliable map/GPS; forest roads and trails may not be well marked. 2) Check current forest service or local sources for road conditions and seasonal closures before you go. 3) Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear with good traction; expect mud and slippery rock. 4) Bring navigation and emergency supplies; cell coverage may be poor. 5) Be prepared to turn back if roads are gated or the last section is unsafe. 6) Leave no trace and pack out all garbage. 7) If you encounter active logging or private property signs, respect closures and trespass restrictions.
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
Walk-In Campsite
10 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
General nearby points of interest in the broader region may include recreation areas, provincial parks, scenic corridors between Kamloops and Lillooet, and other rivers/creeks typical of interior BC. Exact nearby named attractions relative to Purver Falls are not well documented here; consult regional tourism or mapping resources for specifics.
Wildlife
Typical interior British Columbia wildlife may be present: black bears, cougars, deer, moose, small mammals, and numerous bird species. Insect hazards (mosquitoes, ticks) can be significant in summer. Carry and know how to use bear spray and practice wildlife-safe behavior.
Cities near Purver Falls
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