Photographing The Enchanted Forest: A Guide to Capturing BC's Fairytale Wilderness
Nestled between Sicamous and Revelstoke, British Columbia, The Enchanted Forest is a whimsical destination that blends artistic creativity with the beauty of old-growth forests. Created in the 1950s by artists Doris and Ernest Needham, this 8-acre forest park is home to hand-sculpted cement creations depicting fairy tale figures, rock walls, and scenic trails. With over 350 figurines scattered throughout the landscape, photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the fusion of nature and imagination.
Best Photography Conditions & Tips
The Enchanted Forest is best photographed in soft, diffused light, such as early mornings or overcast days, to reduce harsh shadows and enhance the mystical feel of the location. Golden hour provides warm light that highlights the textures of the ancient cedars and moss-covered sculptures.
A wide-angle lens (16-35mm) is ideal for capturing the grandeur of the towering trees and immersive forest scenes, while a macro lens (50-100mm) helps highlight intricate details on the figurines. A polarizing filter can reduce glare from wet foliage and bring out vibrant greens, while a tripod is useful for long-exposure shots of waterfalls and shaded forest paths.
For storytelling compositions, experiment with depth by positioning figurines in the foreground and the dense forest as a backdrop. Playing with angles and perspectives can create a more immersive, fairytale-like effect.
How to Get There
The Enchanted Forest is located along the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), midway between Sicamous and Revelstoke. It is easily accessible by car, with on-site parking available. The park operates seasonally, so checking hours in advance is recommended.
About The Enchanted Forest & Its Surroundings
In addition to its whimsical sculptures, The Enchanted Forest features serene beaver ponds, winding boardwalks, and towering 800-year-old cedar trees. During migration months, the area becomes a prime location for spotting moose and caribou, offering additional opportunities for wildlife photography. The forest's blend of natural and artistic elements makes it an ideal setting for capturing both wide landscapes and detailed close-ups.
Admission is currently $14 for adults, with discounts available for seniors, children, and groups. Visitors should plan to spend at least an hour exploring the trails and uncovering hidden gems within the forest.
Nearby Photography Spots
• SkyTrek Adventure Park An aerial adventure park located next to The Enchanted Forest, offering action-packed photography opportunities of zip-liners and treetop obstacles. The contrast between the dense forest and high-flying adventurers creates visually dynamic compositions. Ideal for capturing dynamic adventure shots.
• Mount Revelstoke National Park A stunning alpine park featuring wildflower meadows, subalpine forests, and panoramic mountain vistas. The winding roads leading up to the summit provide breathtaking vantage points for capturing the grandeur of the Columbia Mountains. Best visited in late summer for peak bloom.
• Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail A scenic interpretive trail through an old-growth cedar forest, perfect for capturing towering trees, textured bark, and filtered light streaming through the canopy. The moss-covered floor and misty conditions often create an enchanting, otherworldly atmosphere.
• Moses Falls A picturesque waterfall near Revelstoke, offering excellent long-exposure photography opportunities with lush greenery as a backdrop. The multi-tiered cascade and surrounding rock formations provide unique framing options for different perspectives.
• Three Valley Lake Chateau & Ghost Town A historic site featuring a reconstructed 1800s ghost town, making it a great location for rustic and vintage-style photography. The weathered wooden buildings and antique artifacts create an authentic atmosphere reminiscent of the Gold Rush era.
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