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Advisories

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Boat launch
Jet boats can access Smith River Falls via the Liard River.
Picnic areas

The Smith River Falls parking area has a picnic table and a rustic fire ring. Visitors must bring their own wood. No firewood is provided.

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Hiking
A short trail meanders down from the day-use area to the base of the river. It is an easy walk and provides visitors with a different perspective of the falls.
Canoeing

Access to the river from the day use area is not very good and not worth the short trip on the river. Most paddlers access the waterway via Liard River. For a great day trip, you can canoe about 34 km down the Smith River to the Liard River. At the Hwy 97 bridge over the Smith River, paddle a short distance down the Smith River to the Liard River and then down the Liard River highway bridge at Liard River Hot Springs. The trip is rated a Class 1 with easy access to the rivers from the highway with no portages. Take time to explore the interesting side drainages and fishing for Artic Grayling and Bull trout where smaller tributaries flow in the Liard.

Park visitors should be aware that the Grand Canyon on the Liard River contains sections of severe rapids (Class IV and higher). River travel in that area is only recommended for experienced paddlers.

Fishing

Arctic grayling, bull trout, burbot, fine-scale dace, lake chub, lake whitefish, longnose dace, longnose sucker, mountain whitefish, northern pike, round whitefish, slimy sculpin, white sucker, and whitefish (general) have all been recorded as resident in the Smith River. 

All anglers should refer to the BC Fishing Regulations for current information. Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.

Wildlife viewing
This park contains the spectacular Smith River Falls. The 35 m high and 10 m wide falls plunge into a deep pool below with a thunderous roar, especially in early summer. The falls viewpoint is readily accessible by vehicle. The area also contains the old site of Fort Halkett, a former Hudson’s Bay Company post.
Pets on leash

Pets and domestic animals must be on a leash and under control at all times. You are responsible for their behavior 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.

Cycling

Visitors can cycle down the Smith River Falls viewpoint access road. This gravel road is used by vehicles and all cyclists should use protective gear and be aware of road traffic. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.

Please note that bicycles with electric assist motors (e-bikes) are not allowed on the trails within Smith River Falls – Fort Halkett Park. E-bikes are restricted to park roads and areas where motorized use is permitted. The only exception to this policy will be for authorized and identified trail maintenance bikes conducting work on behalf of BC Parks.

Hunting

Please refer to the BC Hunting Regulations for current hunting information.