Sikanni Chief Falls Protected Area

Highlights in this protected area

The Protected Area contains the exceptional Sikanni Chief Falls. The grandeur and power of the 30 m falls, which can be heard from quite a distance, will amaze visitors to the area. A scenic vantage point provides visitors with a perfect view as the river cascades over a steep cliff surrounded by a lush coniferous forest. Besides scenic viewing, visitors can enjoy the hiking, photography, wildlife viewing, fishing and hunting.

Know before you go

Advisories

Safety information

Do not approach the edge of the viewpoint, as there are vertical drop-offs.

Special notes

Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs) are prohibited in this park. ORVs include ATVs, off-road motorcycles, snowmobiles and side-by-sides.

Review the detailed guides under visit responsibly for more information on staying safe and preserving our natural spaces.

Visit responsibly

Follow these guides to ensure your activities are safe, respectful, and ecologically friendly:

Maps and location

Getting there

Sikanni Chief Falls Protected Area is located 15 km west of the Alaska Highway approximately 200 km northwest of Fort St. John. Access is via a 4x4 gravel/dirt petroleum road. Watch for industrial traffic. A 1.5 km trail from this area leads to a viewpoint adjacent to the falls. The trail is well marked and is a hiking trail only. No ATVs are allowed on the trail.

Things to do

Hiking

The trail to the falls, begins at the parking lot. The trail is 1.5 km long and is well signed. For your own safety and the preservation of the park, obey posted signs and keep to designated trails. Shortcutting trails destroys plant life and soil structure.

Fishing

There are fishing opportunities in this park.

Anyone fishing in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence. To learn more, see the fishing and hunting guide.

Wildlife viewing

There are opportunities for viewing wildlife such as goats, elk, moose, black bear and grizzly bear.

Pets on leash

Pets and domestic animals must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed in beach areas or park buildings. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement. Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.

Horseback riding

There are opportunities for backcountry horseback riding. Riders should be experienced and prepared for wilderness travel, as there are no designated trails.

Hunting

The park is open to hunting. All hunters to the area should refer to the current BC Hunting & Trapping Regulations Synopsis.

Anyone hunting in British Columbia must comply with BC hunting regulations. To learn more, see the fishing and hunting guide.

About this protected area

Cultural heritage

Sikanni Chief Falls Protected Area overlaps with traditional use areas of the Halfway River and Prophet River First Nations.

History

This protected area was first developed as a Forest Service recreation site, with a small campsite and trail to a viewpoint overlooking the falls. A reserve was placed around the area in 1973. It was listed as a Protected Area in the Fort St. John Land and Resource Management Plan in 1997.

Conservation

The 606 hectare protected area contains a scenic waterfall and provides habitat for a small goat population, which live on the steep slopes above the river. The protected area also preserves a representative example of the Muskwa Foothills ecosection.

Wildlife

Visitors may see wildlife, as moose and deer frequently wander through the park. Keep a sharp eye out for mountain goat, which can be found along the steep banks of the river.

Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples

BC Parks honours Indigenous Peoples’ connection to the land and respects the importance of their diverse teachings, traditions, and practices within these territories. This park webpage may not adequately represent the full history of this park and the connection of Indigenous Peoples to this land. We are working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to update our websites so that they better reflect the history and cultures of these special places.

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