BC Parks Foundation

Helmcken Falls, Wells Gray Park 

Roots, Romance, and Resolve—Roland and Anne Neave's Lifelong Commitment to Wells Gray Park

In the heart of British Columbia lies a vast area of stunning wilderness that has captured the hearts of Roland and Anne Neave for over half a century.  

Covering over 5,400 square kilometres, Wells Gray Park is home to roaring waterfalls, ancient volcanoes, wildflower meadows, and wildlife that have called this region home for millennia.  

For Roland and Anne, this incredible landscape has shaped their lives and inspired a legacy of protection, education, and stewardship. 

Roots, Romance, and Resolve 

Roland's connection to BC's wilderness runs deep. As a young boy, he accompanied his father, Hugh Neave—an accomplished mountaineer who would later have a peak named in his honour—on challenging expeditions through Canada's most majestic landscapes. 

“My father and I summited Mount Edith Cavell in Jasper when I was just ten years old,” Roland recalls, smiling widely. He says that three-day backpacking trip with his father sparked a love for nature that never dimmed. 

Anne, too, grew up loving the outdoors, with fond memories of camping trips to Yellowstone and the Oregon coast. Years later, she and Roland would return to these same places with their own children—passing on their shared love of parks and natural wonder. 

In 1986, the Neaves were founding members of the Friends of Wells Gray Park, with Roland serving as its first president. Through the organization, they’ve helped bring environmental education to life—supporting everything from “Nature for Kids” camps to expert-led talks on birds, geology, and volcanoes. For the Neaves, education has always been the first step toward stewardship. 

And this deep commitment to the park shaped not just their public efforts, but also their personal love story. 

On Canada Day in 1987, after a day checking trail conditions for the Friends of Wells Gray Park, Roland and Anne headed to Helmcken Falls to watch the sunset. Miraculously, they had the viewing platform to themselves—just the two of them and the thunder of the falls. 

In that rare moment of quiet at one of BC’s most iconic waterfalls, Roland asked Anne to marry him. “I wasn’t expecting a proposal,” Anne laughs. “But it sure was a nice place to do it.” 

Their bond and their connection to the land deepened from there. Over time, their efforts expanded into conservation and advocacy—whether standing up to logging interests at the park’s edge or taking action to protect endangered mountain caribou. Their persistence helped establish a provincial caribou recovery team and secure legal funding that continues to support conservation work today. 

For over forty years, they've dedicated their time, energy, and resources to ensuring this incredible place continues to thrive. “Because protection is just the beginning,” says Roland. “And stewardship lasts a lifetime.” 

Generous Support for Future Generations 

Through the Neaves’ enduring commitment to BC Parks Foundation, they’ve supported a wide range of initiatives aimed at preserving BC’s natural landscapes and inspiring future generations to care for them. 

For three years now, the Neaves have helped bring BC Parks Foundation’s Discover Parks Ambassadors to Wells Gray Park, covering half the program’s costs. These passionate interpreters connect visitors more deeply with the landscape, sharing the park’s stories and sparking a sense of care and curiosity. 

“It feels like a full-circle moment,” Anne reflects. “We’re bringing interpretation and naturalist education back into parks, just as we once did through Friends of Wells Gray.” 

Their support doesn’t stop there. In 2023 and 2024, they funded half the cost of a dedicated trail crew in Wells Gray Park, and in 2025, they’re funding it fully.  

They’ve also helped design and install interpretive signs across the park—from Green Mountain’s sweeping views to the geological marvels of Dawson Falls and the quiet wonders of the Grove of Giants near Spahats Falls. 

More are on the way, including along the Dragon’s Tongue trail, Helmcken Falls, Helmcken Canyon, and at Pyramid Mountain and the Murtle River viewpoint. 

“Trails are where connection begins,” says Anne. “Where people slow down, look closely, and learn why these places are worth protecting. 

When asked about her most inspirational natural places, Anne’s thoughts immediately turn to the Trophy Mountain flower meadows in Wells Gray. “From the parking lot, the trail leads through a beautiful subalpine forest, then opens into the most magnificent flower meadows. The diversity of plants is astonishing. It’s a place that reminds you of the beauty and importance of preserving nature.” 

Legacy of Love 

Roland and Anne's generosity reaches beyond Wells Gray. Through a regional giving program that honours Wells Gray Tours office locations across BC, they support BC Parks Foundation’s land protection program. Last year’s gift went toward protecting an area adjacent to Okanagan Lake Park. 

“Anyone can become a champion for their local park or the BC Parks system,” says Roland. “Whether through financial support, volunteer efforts, or simply taking the time to learn about and appreciate these special places, each of us has the power to make a difference.”

With the continued generosity of supporters like Roland and Anne, BC Parks Foundation can carry out its essential work—enhancing park infrastructure, running educational programs, upgrading trail systems, and protecting the natural beauty that makes BC’s parks truly special.  

When more people step forward to support this mission, the work is made all the more meaningful and effective. Please consider donating today.