Triple Decker Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.3 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
63 m
About Triple Decker Falls
Triple Decker Falls appears to be a multi-tiered cascade located in the interior of British Columbia near the Clearwater / Wells Gray area (coordinates: 51.6837, -120.0234). The feature name suggests three distinct drops or ledges; however, published, authoritative information about an official trail, exact vertical measurements, or formal park listing for a waterfall by this precise name is limited. Visitors should treat details below as guidance and verify current conditions and access with local sources (BC Parks, Clearwater visitor centre, or local trail resources) before travelling.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Triple Decker 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
Spahats Falls (60 m) lies 6.0 kilometres to the north. Also nearby: Second Canyon Falls (15 m, 9.7 km).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 1.3-km out-and-back trail gains 63 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is limited authoritative trail information for a named 'Triple Decker Falls' at these coordinates. If a trail exists it is likely a short, informal spur through mixed interior-forest typical of the Clearwater/Wells Gray area, possibly with uneven footing, roots, and some steep sections near the creek. Expect limited or no signage. If visiting, plan for route-finding and natural-terrain hiking; treat the approach as remote until you confirm a maintained trail from a local source.
What to Expect
Expect a forested, inland-BC environment (spruce, fir, pine, cedar), with the waterfall composed of multiple drops or ledges. Spring snowmelt typically produces the highest flow; summer may reduce flow and expose more rock. Terrain near the falls can be steep, wet, and slippery. Cell coverage may be limited. Wildlife in the region can include black bears, moose, deer, and smaller mammals; exercise standard backcountry precautions.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Triple Decker Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Triple Decker Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring (late snowmelt/early runoff) for highest flows and dramatic cascades; summer for easier access and drier trails; fall for color. Winter visits may be hazardous due to snow/ice and limited road access, only for experienced winter travelers with appropriate equipment.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Use caution around cliffs, wet rocks, and stream edges, these are common causes of falls and injuries. Water flow can surge rapidly during spring melt or after heavy rain. Logging and forest service roads may be rough and unmaintained; low-clearance vehicles may not be suitable. Cell phone reception may be unreliable, share your route and estimated return time with someone before you go. Always check local advisories (BC Parks, local authorities) for closures, trail conditions, and wildlife alerts.
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
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The coordinates place the falls in the Clearwater / Wells Gray region of east-central British Columbia. Access may require travel on paved highways followed by unpaved forest or logging roads and then a short hike. The nearest settlement is Clearwater, BC (a few kilometers south of the coordinates). Because official descriptions are scarce, the route may not be signed and may cross private or resource roads, confirm access with local authorities and landowners where applicable.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Likely limited to a small pullout or informal parking at a nearby trailhead or roadside. Expect minimal infrastructure (no formal lots, restrooms, or signage) unless the site is incorporated into an official park trail; verify with local sources. Parking on narrow forest roads can be hazardous, use designated pullouts where present.
Elevation
637 metres above sea level
Coordinates
51.683722° N, -120.023419° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Confirm access and the existence of a maintained trail with BC Parks, the Clearwater Visitor Centre, or local trail resources before going. 2) Use good hiking footwear, rock near falls is often slippery. 3) Bring a map, GPS, and a charged phone; do not rely on cell service. 4) If driving logging or forest service roads, check conditions and use a high-clearance vehicle if recommended. 5) Pack out all waste and follow Leave No Trace principles. 6) Be cautious around edges and undercut banks; do not climb wet cliffs or jump from ledges.
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With 1.3 km and 63 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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
Clearwater Valley Resort
3.6 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Wells Gray Provincial Park attractions are in the broader region (if accessing from Clearwater): Helmcken Falls, Dawson Falls, and numerous other waterfalls and lakes. Confirm exact distances and access depending on where you park and which roads you use.
Wildlife
Black bears, moose, deer, wolves, cougars, and a variety of small mammals and birds are native to the region. Use standard wildlife safety practices: store food securely, make noise while hiking, and carry bear spray where appropriate.
Nearby Waterfalls
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