bullmoose falls

To reach Bullmoose Falls, follow the flagged route from the parking area down a grassy slope and across Bullmoose Creek. Keep in mind that the creek can be swift and dangerous at high water levels, so it's advisable to bring a hiking pole or walking stick for the crossing. Water levels typically range from mid-calf to mid-thigh from July to October. The trail then ascends on the left side of the creek and leads through the forest to the falls viewpoint.

The short trek to Bullmoose Falls is a great way to end a day of exploring the Cowmoose Mountain, Holzworth Meadows, Windfall Lake or Pinnacle Peak areas.

Park on the side of the road where the plowed road ends. Snowshoe along the road, turning right and following the gravel road for another 1 km, where you will see the top of Bullmoose Falls on your right. Following the trail markers and orange flagging tape or existing snowshoe trail, continue less than 1 km to the base of the falls. You will cross a shallow creek on the way that does not freeze in winter, and will likely get your snowshoes and/or boots wet. The route climbs uphill to the base of the falls, which are nearly vertical.

Amongst the most challenging in the area, Bullmoose Falls is 45 m of absolutely sheer, rock-solid vertical ice, described as having “evil truck-sized gargoyles, brittle chandeliers, buttery blue slab and frosted cauliflowers”. Conditions vary, depending on the day, and can be a “vertical cakewalk” or “unstable, uninsurable and climbed by pure levitation”. BC Peace Region Climbers is a good resource for climbing information.

The rocks here are part of the Gates Formation of Cretaceous age. The hard sandstone that forms the lip of the falls was deposited in a beach environment, along the shore of an inland sea known as the Western Interior Seaway.

Summer: Use extreme caution if you venture close to the falls, as the water is cold and the rocks are very slippery. The mandatory creek crossing will be impassible at high water.

Winter: Use extreme caution when approaching the frozen falls, as large chunks of ice can fall off at any time. This bowl is also prone to avalanches.