This hike starts at the viewpoint of Helmcken Falls in Wells Gray Park and drops a couple of hundred metres to the Gattling Gorge at the narrowest point of Helmcken Canyon where the entire Clearwater River squeezes through a gap that is barely 15 m wide.   The trail goes down all the way on a rough trail with exposure along a cliff edge and has spectacular views of the Flowerpot Rapids and the canyon lava cliffs.  A steady climb brings you back up the same way to return to the parking lot.   Core fitness needed for the steady uphill coming back.

If bringing  your furry friend keep them on a leash as there is a sharp drop off for most of the trail, and extra water for the climb back up.   Meet up is at 0730 at Paul Lake meet up spot; be prepared to pay your driver $15 if you choose to carpool.

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Sheila Powell

I have been retired for several years now and enjoy many activities in the outdoors such as hiking, cycling, skiing, backpacking. I have lived in Canada for the last 35 years and spent a great deal of time exploring the Rockies, K-country, Kootenays and parts of BC.

I get out on a hike, ski or cycle ride several times a week either with the club or family and enjoy running multi day trips as well as day outings.I will lead fairly strenuous, moderate to steady paced outings as well as some starter outings.

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