Sundt Falls
British Columbia • Wells Gray Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
10.8 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
534 m
About Sundt Falls
Sundt Falls is a relatively obscure waterfall in the central interior of British Columbia near the coordinates 52.3889, -120.3134. Local information is limited; the waterfall appears to be on a small tributary and is not a well-developed tourist site. Expect a natural, undeveloped setting with variable flow depending on season (highest flows in spring snowmelt). Exact height and official name usage vary between sources.
The Setting
Sundt Falls sits at 829 metres within Wells Gray Park, in the hills of British Columbia.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Sundt 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.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The hard 10.8-km out-and-back trail gains 534 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is no widely documented established trail to Sundt Falls. Reports indicate access is typically cross-country from a forest service road pullout and may involve scrambling through brush and over uneven ground to reach viewpoints. Without a maintained trail, route-finding skills are helpful. Expect no signage, boardwalks, or built viewpoints.
What to Expect
A remote, undeveloped waterfall setting. Variable stream flow with highest water in spring; lower flows in late summer. No facilities, potable water, or cell coverage in many spots. Steep, wet rocks and mossy banks near the falls; unstable edges and fallen trees may be present. Potential for muddy or rutted access roads after rain or in spring thaw.
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 Sundt Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sundt Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring to early summer for peak flow and dramatic water volume. Summer offers easier road and access conditions but lower water. Fall can offer good colors and fewer bugs. Winter access may be difficult or unsafe due to snow, ice, and frozen waterfalls; only attempt with proper winter skills and equipment.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Wells Gray Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include slippery wet rocks, unstable cliff edges, strong currents near the falls, variable stream flow (peak during spring melt), limited or no cell service, rough or washboard forest service roads, and possible active logging operations. Wildlife encounters are possible, carry bear spray and know how to respond. Check weather and road conditions before travel. If uncertain about route or conditions, consider turning back or seeking local guidance.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 48.3 km away
9.8 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 60 years of record
1.26 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.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Access appears to be by forest service roads and informal logging roads off the main highways in the North Thompson / interior BC corridor. There is limited published information about an official trailhead; visitors typically use GPS coordinates and local FSR maps to reach the closest access point. A high-clearance vehicle or 4x4 may be needed for some FSR sections depending on conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Likely limited to informal pullouts or a widened spot on a forest service road. There are no known developed parking lots, vault toilets, or services at the site. Park carefully off the road and avoid blocking gates or logging operations.
Elevation
829 metres above sea level
Coordinates
52.388914° N, -120.313383° W
Land Management
Managed by Government of British Columbia
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Use detailed topographic maps, a GPS device, or downloaded offline maps, cellphone reception may be unreliable. 2) Check current Forest Service/BC Parks/FSR conditions and local travel advisories before heading out. 3) Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear and gaiters; expect brushy cross-country sections. 4) Bring bear spray and know how to use it. 5) Leave no trace: pack out all waste and avoid disturbing vegetation or stream banks.
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This challenging 10.8 km trail gains 534 m in elevation — come prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
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
Indian Point Campground
4 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Sundt Falls is in the central interior/ North Thompson corridor of BC. The general region has forest service roads, wilderness recreation opportunities, and other rivers and lakes for fishing and boating. Nearest larger communities in the broader region may include Blue River and Clearwater (distances vary); confirm exact distances using maps.
Wildlife
Typical interior-BC wildlife may be present: black bears (and potentially grizzly in some areas), moose, deer, cougars, wolves, various small mammals, and birds (including raptors and waterfowl). Practice wildlife safety and store food securely.
Nearby Waterfalls
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