Sukunka Falls

Park Info

With a backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, the Sukunka River highlights a scenic vista as it cascades over vertical bands of bedrock layers in a series of waterfalls and rapids. Three sets of falls are located in the park, the northernmost being the most impressive of the series. Unique viewing opportunities are offered of the Sukunka Falls and rapids from roadside locations. In addition, the river setting provides visitors with a variety of recreational opportunities, which include fishing, hiking, picnicking, and camping.

Park Size: 423 hectares

Stay Safe: Backcountry and Marine Ethics

• he Sukunka River drops 50 metres from one end of the park to the other. Below the falls, the water is navigable by canoe and riverboat. Always use caution, the Sukunka River can be challenging even to experienced canoeists and boaters.
• Visitors to this park are advised when travelling the Sukunka Forest Service road to use extreme caution and have the radio frequency to maintain contact with the truck traffic.

General Visitor Information

• Park User Fees
• What to Know Before You Go
• General Safety & Ethics
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Fishing and Hunting Information
• Other Links

Location

Location Map

Sukunka Falls Provincial Park is located approximately 45 km south of Chetwynd via the Chetwynd-Tumbler Ridge Highway and the Sukunka Forest Service road. At km 21 of the Sukunka Forest Service road, there is a pullout which provides visitors with a good view of the falls, rapids and surrounding parkland.

Nature & Culture

• History - Sikanni and Beaver First Nations are known to have occupied the Sukunka Valley during the time of European exploration in the Peace River region. Prescott Fay, in 1914 wrote: "At this point the river goes through a rocky canyon, above which are a series of very pretty cascades and small, symmetrical falls, so much so as to be almost artificial."
  
  In 1966 a reserve was established to preserve the scenic upper falls viewpoint and in 1972 it was expanded to include the lower falls. Sukunka Falls was established as a Provincial Park in 1981.
  
  
• Cultural Heritage - The Sikanni and Beaver First Nations have traditionally used the area.
  
  
• Conservation - Boreal white and black spruce is characteristic of the valley bottom with stands of aspen, cottonwood, and poplar. The Sukunka valley has been identified as key winter range for moose and deer.
  
  
• Wildlife - Wildlife species inhabiting the park area include moose, black bear, lynx, wolf, and hare as well as a wide variety of avian species such as loons, grebes, spruce grouse and bald eagles. Within the Sukunka River arctic grayling, bull trout, Rocky Mountain whitefish, and rainbow trout are common.

Management Planning

Management Planning Information

• Approved Purpose Statement and Zoning Plan

Activities Available At This Park

		Canoeing

		Cycling

		Fishing

		Hiking

		Horseback Riding

		Pets on Leash

		Wildlife Viewing

Facilities Available At This Park

		Campfires

		Walk-In/Wilderness Camping