3-Day Clearwater, BC Spring Itinerary: Waterfalls, Wildlife, & Viking Glamping
A 3-day Itinerary for visiting Wells Gray Provincial Park and Clearwater, BC during May.
If you’re itching to get out into nature for a weekend trip that feels part National Geographic, part cottage core fantasy, and part off-grid Viking fairytale, Clearwater, British Columbia is calling! Spring is one of my favourite times to visit Wells Gray, the waterfalls are raging, the bears are waking up, and the crowds of ‘cross-canada' motor-home travellers haven’t descended yet. You can hit all of the iconic lower elevation hikes without playing parking lot tetris, and end your days wrapped in luxury linens inside a twinkle-light-lit a-frame that looks like something straight out of a Norse saga.
Here is exactly how I’d spend 3 perfect days adventuring around Wells Gray Provincial Park, Clearwater, and cozying up at Bluestone Acres, a Viking-themed off-grid retreat that had me wondering if I could trade in my hiking boots for a sword, LOL.
Day 1
Dawn and dusk during spring in Wells Gray are the prime time for spotting black bears along the park road. Drive along the road and keep a careful watch for something fluffy munching on grass in the roadside ditches and farmer’s fields on the way into the park. You might be lucky and catch a mama bear, and maybe even cubs too! BUT, make sure you stay inside of your vehicle, move out of traffic, and don’t linger longer than a few minutes observing wildlife. Don’t even think about trying to pet or feed them…I meant it!
After your morning wildlife watch, I recommend heading further into the park to see the iconic Helmcken Falls, but, not just from the standard viewing platform. My favourite way to view Helmcken in all its glory is via the Helmcken Falls Rim Trail. Make sure you keep your eye out for the turn off as it’s in a bend on the road that sort of comes out of nowhere. This trail is 8.2 kms with 204m of elevation gain and typically takes 2-3hrs to complete depending on your hiking abilities. Beware of cliffs! If you’re hiking with children or pets, make sure to keep them close by as there are no guard rails and this trail really gives you an up close and personal view of Helmcken.
After wandering around the rim trail for a bit, head back into town, perhaps stop at Spahat Falls on your way back in for a quick walk before stopping to grab a bite to eat at the Hungry Hiker Cafe (their french fries are SOOO GOOD).
By later in the afternoon, make your way to your home base for the weekend: the Elksa Cabin at Bluestone Acres, just 20 minutes outside of Clearwater. Trust me, this isn’t your average glamping situation. Think: off-grid hideaway meets Viking luxury. The Elksa is their “sweetheart cabin” and is tucked into a private little nook of the forest with its own private river-front beach. The rustic-luxe vibes and cozy touches are enough to make you feel like you’re in a fantasy novel! There’s no Wi-Fi, but there is cell-service if you need it (you probably won’t). The cabin comes equipped with a barbecue, fire pit, hammock, lounging chairs, and there are dishes and dish washing supplies available as well.
Pro tip: If you really want to live-local, pre-order one of their locally sourced meal boxes! Make sure you place your order at least 2 weeks before your arrival and they’ll be delivered straight to the cabin. Here’s a sneak preview of their offerings this summer (2025):
⚔️ Box #1 – Thor’s Feast: Hearty loaded baked potatoes with beef, cheese, chives, and sour cream—fuel fit for a warrior.
🔥 Box #2 – Odin’s Skewers: Greek chicken skewers with salad and tzatziki, a feast worthy of the Allfather himself.
🌊 Box #3 – Freya’s Bounty: Sweet potato black bean tacos with fresh toppings—light yet powerful like the goddess of war and love.
🐑 Box #4 – Fenrir’s Bite: Lamb feta burgers with grilled veggie skewers—bold and untamed, just like the legendary wolf.
Day 2
The bed and linens inside the Elksa cabin are so comfy, I was super well rested and ready for a big day of adventure, so that’s what we did. Today it’s time to pack in those waterfalls! Stop by WildFlour Bakery for a delicious latte before heading to the Clearwater River Trail Recreation Site for the first waterfalls of the day. The first waterfall on this trail is Triple Decker Falls (1.3km, 61m elevation gain, approx. 30 mins), it’s a bit steep but quite short and leads to a three-tiered cascading waterfall, it is jaw-dropping! Once you’ve hiked back up the steep grade, if you’re ready for more continue following the signs for the Clearwater River Trail, you’ll come by the Osprey Look-out with beautiful views of the Clearwater River and eventually end up at Candle Creek Waterfall (4km, 237m elevation gain, approx 1.5-2hrs). It will definitely be GUSHING this time of year, but in the summer time you can walk behind it.
Back at Bluestone Acres, don’t forget to say hi to the chickens and the bees! You can also get fresh eggs for tomorrow’s breakfast from hosts Kaare and Ron for $8, it doesn’t get much more fresh & local than that! Make sure you arrive back in time for the kulning performance up on the hill. Yup, the owner performs traditional Scandinavian cow-calling music almost every night at 5-6pm. This is an age-old practice that was utilized by the Norse farm women to call the cattle back to the barn in the evening, so cool! It is truly magical, you definitely have to experience it.
Day 3
Ugh, the weekend is over already? I definitely recommend spending your last morning soaking up any amenities you haven’t tried out yet at Bluestone Acres. The Elksa cabin even provides robes so you can wade into the river for a morning cold dip, brrrr!! It feels so refreshing though, you have to try it. But if cold plunges aren’t really your thing, the Elksa cabin is getting an outdoor shower on May 15th!!
This is the perfect time to indulge in the breakfast delivery offered at Bluestone, fresh baked sweet and savoury goods served with coffee, right to your cozy a-frame! On your way out, don’t forget to sign the guest book and stop by the general store to browse trinkets from local artisans and grab a few snacks before you hit the road. Or if you’re not quite ready to leave the forest behind, wander around the property and say hi to the chickens and the cats one more time.
Why Spring in Clearwater Rocks:
Bear sightings are common (stay in your car, be respectful!) 🐻
Waterfalls are reaching their peak flows
Trails are much quieter so you can have space to breathe and truly immerse yourself in nature
The Elska cabin is pure off-grid romance with a Viking twist, offering you cozy comforts in between your rugged adventures
This trip was the perfect reset. A little wild, a little whimsical, and a lot of coziness! Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just craving some fresh air and fairy tale vibes, Bluestone Acres and spring in Wells Gray should be very high on your list.
Ready to book your own Viking glamping escape?
You can learn more and reserve your stay at Bluestone Acres.
Follow along on Instagram for behind-the-scenes magic, kulning performances, and adorable chickens: @bluestoneacres 🛖⚔️🐓
BRB, training to be a viking!
Planning a spring trip to Clearwater? Save this post for later and share it with who you’re taking! Got questions or want more BC itineraries? Drop a comment or DM me on Instagram @brynnsadventures.
Before you go: Always follow Leave No Trace principles, respect wildlife, and stay on designated trails. Clearwater is a beautiful place, and it’s our job to help keep it that way for the next adventurer. Pack it in, pack it out, and be a good human. ♻️🌿
