Northern Explorer Summer 2012

Northern Explorer THE PRINCE GEORGE

CITIZEN THE

YourCITIZEN 2012 Guide to Northern BC Parks PRINCE GEORGE

THE

PRINCE GEORGE

CITIZEN

NORTH TO FORT ST JOHN | SOUTH TO QUESNEL | EAST TO VALEMOUNT | WEST TO THE HAZELTONS

northern explorer | 2 | may 2012

explore yours to

Prince George is a great place to visit.

We have a variety of walking trails along the rivers. You are sure to see birds and wildlife.

– Pat Suter

cover on the

This photo is of Jarvis Lake with the sunrise on Mount Ida in the background. This is within Kakwa provincial park about 115 miles northeast of Prince George. Kakwa park has some of the greatest mountain scenery in BC. – Keith Monroe

THE PRINCE GEORGE

CITIZEN THE

PRINCE GEORGE

The Citizen thanks all those who submitted photos for this publication.

Unfortunately not all the great photos we received can be included due to limited space.

Provincial Park information courtesy of http:// www.env.gov.bc.ca/ bcparks/ Regional Park information courtesy of http:// www.rdffg.bc.ca/

CITIZEN THE CITIZEN

Northern Explorer is a product of the PRINCE GEORGE

Available on-line at www.pgcitizen.ca General Inquiries 250-562-2441 Publisher: Colleen Sparrow Editor: Neil Godbout Reader Sales: Alan Ramsay Advertising: Lu Verticchio Creative: Colleen McComb

Please Recycle northern explorer | 3 | may 2012

parkfinder the

PROVINCIAL PARKS Arctic Pacific Lakes Bearhole Lake Beatton Beatton River Beaumont Bijoux Falls Bobtail Mountain Bocock Peak Bowron Lake Bull Canyon Butler Ridge Cariboo Mountains Cariboo River Carp Lake Cedar Point Charlie Lake Close To The Edge Crooked River Dahl Lake East Pine Erg Mountain Eskers Evanoff Finger-Tatuk Fort George Canyon Fraser River Giscome Portage Trail Gwillim Lake Heather-Dina Lakes Hole In The Wall Holliday Creek Arch Horsefly Lake Jackman Flats Kakwa Kiskatinaw Kiskatinaw River Kluskoil Lake

47 31 36 36 17 25 12 30 40 40 35 41 41 24 44 36 47 14 10 30 47 14 46 16 8 8 12 30 25 31 48 44 49 48 34 34 38

Lower/Upper Raush Moberly Lake Monkman Mount Pope Mount Robson Mount Terry Fox Mudzenchoot Nazko Lake Nechako Canyon One Island Lake Paarens Beach Peace River Corridor Pine Le Moray Pine River Breaks Pinnacles Ptarmigan Creek Puntchesakut Lake Purden Lake Pyramid Creek Falls Rearguard Falls Slim Creek Small River Caves Sowchea Bay Stuart Lake Marine Stuart River Sugar Bowl-Grizzly Den Sukunka Falls Swan Lake Taylor Landing Ten Mile Lake Three Sisters Lake Tudyah Lake Wapiti Lake West Lake West Twin Whiskers Point White Pelican

49 30 31 17 50 49 22 38 16 34 17 36 25 30 38 48 38 14 49 49 47 49 17 22 16 46 30 34 34 38 10 25 34 10 48 24 40

Tabor lake is a beautiful spot to take in some scenery and relax.

– Bill CaMPBell

REGIONAL PARKS Berman Lake Cedarside George Hicks Giscome Portage Harold Mann John Dahl

7 46 46 7 7 24

Koeneman Kristian Winther McMillan Creek Ness Lake Wilkins

46 7 7 7 7

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Along with the great fishing there is also super wildlife viewing in the backwoods of the McGregor area.

We wereWn’t sure why this cow moose was so concerned with us until her twin calves stepped out and solved the mystery.

– Brenda PhilliPS

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prince george

& area

Bugs, birds and beasts; Prince George has it all.

– d MClaren

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Berman Lake

REGIONAL PARK This park is located 45km west of Prince George via Highway 16 and Norman Lake Road. The 38 ha park has 3 km of trails.

Many of the trails follow the shoreline and naturally formed eskers, which enable access to view a variety of wildlife and the habitat in which they live.

Berman Lake Regional Park has two separate picnic areas to enjoy. Facilities including picnic tables, fire pits, toilets, change houses, canoe launch and a beach with a swimming area.

Camping is not permitted.

Giscome Portage REGIONAL PARK

The Huble Homestead Historic Site is located on the scenic Fraser River, 40 km north of Prince George just off highway 97. It is operated by the Huble Homestead-Giscome Portage Heritage Society. Crossing the Arctic Continental Divide, which separates the Pacific and Arctic watersheds, the Giscome Portage provided a short overland link for north and south water-bound travelers.

The site today includes the original 1912 dovetail log house, general store, blacksmith shop, barns and other heritage buildings.

Harold Mann

REGIONAL PARK This park is located 50 km northeast of Prince George via Highway 16 East and Upper Fraser Road on beautiful Eaglet Lake. The park is 13 ha in size

and provides opportunities to view wildlife, especially birds, on the short but scenic trail along the creek, marsh and lake.

Facilities include picnic tables, fire pits, toilets, swimming area and change houses.

Kristian Winther REGIONAL PARK

Kristian Winther Regional Park is located on the south shore of the Salmon River, 30 km north of Prince George, via the Hart Highway 97. The park is 70 acres in size and has a short ‘loop’ trail (700 metres) that travels along the Salmon River and back through some new growth forest. While on the trail keep an eye out for deer, moose and bear tracks or look into the trees for holes where birds may be nesting. Facilities at the park include picnic tables, fire pits and toilets. A new picnic shelter is under construction. Camping is not permitted.

Ness Lake

REGIONAL PARK Ness Lake Regional Park is located 35 km northwest of Prince George via Highway 97 and Chief Lake Road. The 14 ha park has 1.2 km of trails within its boundaries. The trails provide an easy walk to view all of the wildlife and plant life of the park. A beach provides access to the lake where you can launch a canoe or go swimming. Facilities include picnic tables, fire pits, toilets, change houses and a beach with a designated swimming area. Camping is not permitted.

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McMillan Creek REGIONAL PARK

McMillan Creek Regional Park is situated within the City of Prince George . The Park is accessed via the Hart Highway 97 North off Hoferkamp Road.

The Park includes the Nechako River cutbanks, and provides a scenic view of Prince George and surrounding landscapes.

McMillan Creek passes through a deep ravine surrounded by towering Douglas fir trees.

The creek is an important habitat for rainbow trout and provides valuable spawning beds. A scenic 2.5 km trail system, starting at the main parking lot, winds through several ecosystems allowing an opportunity to view various different plant species. A shorter, and much easier, 1 km trail brings you directly to the lookout on the cutbanks.

Facilities include a picnic table, toilets, interpretative signs regarding the geographic history of Prince George and a

safe and scenic view of the city from the cutbanks. Camping is not permitted.

Fort George Canyon

Wilkins

Hiking, Hunting, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets About This Park: This small park consists of two parcels on either side of the Fraser River south of the city of Prince George.

Public recreation opportunities and trail access is available on the west side of the river. Rapid and dangerous, this canyon abounds in whirlpools and massive, jagged rocks close to the surface. The park is day-use only. Natural Features: Historic Canyon on the Fraser River, the park protects the historic winch site used by paddle-wheeled boats in the early 1900’s and related portage, a native fishing site and popular hiking trail.

Park size: 178 hectares How To Get There: A 4.8 km trail provides access to the west side of the river. The trailhead is located off West Lake Road, 24.5 km from Prince George

REGIONAL PARK Facilities include a picnic shelter with a wood burning stove, toilets, picnic tables, fire pits, a boat launch and a large area of lawn providing a place to hold events. Camping is not permitted.

Wilkins Regional Park is located 15 km west of Prince George via Otway Road. The 57 ha Park has a large system of trails offering scenic views of the enormous cottonwood trees, the Nechako River and at certain times of the year, salmon can be viewed moving up the river to spawn. After enjoying a gentle walk or ski on the trails, the picnic shelter can be used as a meeting point where you can warm up beside the wood stove or roast some hotdogs for lunch.

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Cycling, Fishing,

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via Highway 16 west and Blackwater Road. The trailhead and first part of the trail remain under Ministry of Forests jurisdiction. From the edge of the plateau down to the river, the trail is in the park. The park is not road or trail accessible from the east side.

Fraser River

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Horseback Riding, Hunting, Pets on Leash

Facilities: None About This Park: This provincial

park is located on the west bank of the Fraser River. It provides good representation of moist hot and dry sub-boreal spruce forests. The area has high wildlife values and provides excellent deer and moose winter range. Park size: 4,899 ha How To Get There: The park is located on the west bank of the Fraser River, on Hwy 97 South, approximately 35 kms from Prince George.

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When we go camping in this beautiful northern part of British Columbia, we usually encounter some kind of wildlife. This Steller’s Jay kept helping itself to our dog “Bo’s” food. What a great photo op!

– dollie Morgan

West Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing,

Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Waterskiing, Wildlife Viewing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit and Flush Toilets, Wheelchair Access About This Park: West Lake is a day-use park where visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. A boaters beach complete with picnic tables, pit toilets and fire pits has been developed for boaters and water skiers.

A swimming area is sectioned off. There is a volleyball net and horseshoe pit in the main dayuse area. A group picnic site (capacity 100) with pit toilets and a picnic shelter with wood stove, horseshoe pits, fire circle and play field is available. Park size: 256 ha How To Get There: West Lake Provincial Park is located 22 km southwest of Prince George on the Blackwater Road on the north shore of West Lake.

Three Sisters Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting

Facilities: None About This Park: This provincial

park is located approximately northern explorer | 10 | may 2012

35 km southeast of Prince George. This park includes three small lakes and unique canyon features on Government Creek. Park size: 968 ha How To Get There: This park is located approximately 35 km southest of Prince George. Turn left on Stone Creek Road and travel east for about 7.5 km to the trail head.

Dahl Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets About This Park: Dahl Lake Provincial Park is a day-use park providing a wilderness atmosphere within an hours drive of Prince George. The park has rustic picnic facilities, a sandy beach, short walking trail, and great canoeing and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Overnight camping and fires are prohibited. Motorized boats are prohibited on Dahl Lake.

Park size: 1,583 ha How To Get There: Dahl Lake Provincial Park is located 60 km southwest of Prince George.

The parking area is at Norman Lake 19 km south of Highway 16 on the Norman Lake road.

Norman Lake road is 43 km west of Prince George.

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I took a walk behind my house just north of Prince George and happened upon this Lynx warming himself in the sun. – Brenda PhilliPS

Bobtail Mountain

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Fishing, Hiking,

Hunting

Facilities: Cabins / Huts / Yurts About This Park: This park fea-

tures an unusual outcropping of serpentine rock. The Bobtail Mountain trailhead is southeast of the park. This forest service trail is about 5 km in length with a change in elevation of 470 metres. It meanders up along the southern park boundary to a south facing viewpoint at the summit of Bobtail Mountain, ending at a north facing viewpoint where a small hut has been built to provide shelter. There are no other facilities provided. Park size: 1360 ha How To Get There: The park is located about 55 km southwest of Prince George with access via the Gregg Creek forest service road. The nearest community, town or city is Prince George.

Giscome Portage Trail PROTECTED AREA Activities: Cycling, Fishing,

Hiking, Hunting, Pets on Leash, northern explorer | 12 | may 2012

Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Pit Toilets About This Park: Giscome Portage Trail is a designated Heritage Trail that is located 40 km north of Prince George and 6 km off Highway 97 North on Mitchell Road The Giscome Portage is a route approximately 8.5 km in length, crossing the Continental Divide, which separates the Pacific and Arctic watersheds and provides a link for north and south waterbound travelers. It was the main northern access route until 1920 when it became obsolete with the construction of a road from Prince George to Summit Lake. Park size: 160 ha How To Get There: Giscome Portage Trail is located 40 km North of Prince George and 6 km off Highway 97 North on Mitchell Road. There is also another access point where the trail comes out at Barney Creek Road (close to Summit Lake), which is 48 km North of Prince George on Highway 97. The closest communities, towns and cities are Prince George and Bear Lake.

prince george & area >> This photo was of our son-in-law Tom. A successful day of fishing at Summit Lake, B.C.

– Sharon thring

This photo was taken at our cabin on Summit Lake, B.C. Hummingbirds built their nest on our ‘clothesline’ and hatched two eggs that Spring.

– Sharon thring

This photo was taken of our grandsons, Gage and Raymond, at Summit Lake, B.C. Lots of summer fun can be had at Summit Lake.

– Sharon thring

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Eskers PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Eskers Provincial Park is a day-use park located 40 km northwest of Prince George. Encompassing 3,979 hectares of gently rolling terrain and many small lakes, the park conserves a portion of the 40 km long Stuart River Eskers Complex. These unique land forms, for which the park is named, are long sinuous gravel ridges. They were created when sand and gravel were deposited in the meltwater channels of ancient glaciers that once blanketed this northern region.

Fires are NOT permitted in the park. Park size: 3, 979 ha How To Get There: Eskers Provincial Park is located 40 km northwest of Prince George.

Turn west off highway 97 north

onto Chief Lake Road. Continue west for 27 km (at km 12 Chief Lake Road turns into Ness Lake Road). At the west end of Ness Lake turn north onto Ness Lake Road North. Follow this road for 1 km to the Eskers Provincial Park entrance.

Crooked River

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities:Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing, Windsurfing Facilities: Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit and Flush Toilets, Playground, Sani-Station/Dump, Showers, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Crooked River lies within the Fraser Basin, an irregularly shaped basin of gently rolling hills and shallow lakes covering much of the North Central B.C. Three beautiful lakes are contained within this 970 hectare park.

The centre of activity of this park, an hour’s drive north of Prince George, is beach-fringed Bear Lake. The fine, sandy beaches are some of the best in the region and are favourites of swimmers and sunbathers.

Fishing, hiking, camping and nature study are also popular activities with outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors like to hike to nearby Square Lake or along the willow-lined Crooked River, the original route of early explorers. A natural feature in the park is Livingston Springs (is a cold water springs that run year round). Park size: 970 ha How To Get There: The park is located 70 km north of Prince George on Highway #97. This is approximately a one hour drive.

The closest communities, towns and cities are Bear Lake and Prince George.

Purden Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Pets on

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Leash, Swimming, Waterskiing, Wildlife Viewing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit and Flush Toilets, Playground, Sani-Station/Dump, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Nestled in the rolling mountains east of Prince George, Purden Lake Provincial Park, on the north shore of Purden Lake, is dominated by the Cariboo Mountains to the south and the McGregor range of the Rockies to the north.

Densely forested upland with open areas near the lakefront provide pleasant surroundings for a shoreline stroll, swimming or angling for the lake’s resident rainbow trout. Park size: 2521 ha How To Get There: Purden Lake Park is located 64 km east of Prince George on the Yellowhead Highway #16.

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prince george

"This view typifies the variety of scenery found in BC's interior which can sometimes be found in a single photograph. Field of wildflowers, farmlands, mountains, ice and snow . are all combined here just east of Smithers juts ntain Mou Bay on Huds nd, grou In the back into the clear, blue sky and often provides first-class skiing six months of the year."

arriSon – dave harri

“The banks along the Telkwa River presents some of the most spectacular scenery in northern British Columbia. With its fastflowing river, snow-capped mountains and vast evergreen forests and blue skies, one can easily be overwhelmed by it natural beauty.”

– dave harriSon

A Bohemian Waxwing fattening up for the winter migration south.

These beautiful birds will arrive on mass and clean off these berries in a few hours every fall in Vanderhoof BC.

– Wayne SaleWSKi

Near Burns Lake. Lakes, trees, mountains and forest combine to make a tranquil scene on a cool, fall day.

– nataSha harriSon

Burns Lake. Combined with the background beauty of mountains and forest are hundreds of swam ps bogs with their with their own special eco syst and ems.

– nataSha harriSon

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Finger-Tatuk PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Waterskiing, Wildlife Viewing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch, Cabins / Huts / Yurts, Campfires, Pit and Flush Toilets, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Walk-In/Wilderness Camping About This Park: Finger-Tatuk Provincial Park surrounds Finger and Tatuk Lakes and extends south to include the smaller Turff, Vance, Cory, Bodley, and Harp Lakes south of the Tatuk Hills. Abundant populations of rainbow trout and kokanee are the main attraction for anglers in the area. Park size: 17,151 ha How To Get There: Finger-Tatuk Provincial Park is located 80 kilometres south of Vanderhoof and 115 kms southwest of Prince George. To access Finger Lake and the west end of Tatuk Lake, use the Kluskus forest service road near Vanderhoof.

Access to the east end of Tatuk

Lake is via the Pelican (Prince George) or Bobtail (Highway #16) Forest Service Roads.

Nechako Canyon PROTECTED AREA Activities: Fishing, Hiking,

Hunting

Facilities: None About This Park: The Nechako

Canyon Protected Area includes the 7 km long Grand Canyon of the Nechako. The canyon was created by the raging Nechako River cutting through volcanic rock, but is now a dry riverbed since the construction of the Kenny Dam diverted the water to the Pacific Coast. This impressive gorge with sheer rock walls, towering pinnacles, and overhanging cliffs is now considered a special feature, providing a rare opportunity to observe these erosional features. More than 130 archaeological sites have been documented including a village site near Cheslatta Falls where pit depressions from dwellings and food caches

This picture of my granddaughter Alexis was taken at Owen Lake. She was so excited to show me her catch from when her grandfather and uncle took her out in the boat. She’s the youngest of my four grandchildren and just loves to fish. – Sherry MayheW can still be found. Just outside the protected area off the Holy Cross Road, is the Cheslatta River Recreation Site. From the recreation site, a forest service trail follows the Cheslatta River to meet the the Nechako River at the 18 metre high Cheslatta Falls. The Cheslatta Falls hiking trail is 1.2 km one way. Beware of steep drop-offs to the turbulent river and slippery footing at the falls. Stay on the marked trail. Park size: 1,246 ha How To Get There: This 1,246 hectare protected area is located about 80 km southwest of Vanderhoof. Access is via the Holy Cross forest service road on the west side of the canyon, or the Kenney Dam Road to the east.

Stuart River

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing, northern explorer | 16 | may 2012

Hunting, Wildlife Viewing

Facilities Available: None About This Park: This park takes

in three-quarters of the 110 km long Stuart River corridor between Fort St. James and the Nechako River. Road access to the corridor exists at several points but the most efficient access is by boat. River corridor provides critical habitat for Chinook and Sockeye salmon, and red-listed White Sturgeon. Also a high value wildlife corridor for ungulates: includes deer and elk winter ranges. Park size: 21,021 ha How To Get There: This park takes in three-quarters of the 110 km long Stuart River corridor between Fort St. James and the Nechako River. Road access to the corridor exists at several points but the most efficient access is by boat.

prince george west >> This early morning picture, with frost still covering the dock, was taken at Owen Lake, at the base of Nadina Mountain, south of Houston.

Beaumont

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Waterskiing, Wildlife Viewing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit and Flush Toilets, Playground, Sani-Station/ Dump, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Beaumont Provincial Park lies within the Nechako Plateau bordered to the west and north by the Hazelton, Skeena and Omineca mountains. The park offers a beautiful, sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing and a variety of facilities for wateroriented activities. Park size: 191.8 ha How To Get There: A 134 km drive west of Prince George on Highway 16. The area is characterized by gently rolling terrain forested with willow, poplar, birch, spruce and occasional stands of aspen. The closest communities, towns and cities are Vanderhoof, Fraser Lake and Fort Fraser.

Paarens Beach

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Waterskiing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Playground, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: This park is an ideal base from which to explore the rich history and enjoy the multitude of recreational opportunities around Stuart Lake and the nearby community of Fort St. James.

There are close to twenty lodges and resorts on various lakes or rivers, canoeing opportunities on the Nation Lakes Chain. There is an Arctic grayling catch and release fishery), and houseboats available on Takla Lake.

Stuart Lake, one of the largest natural lakes in the province at about 70 kilometres long, is the southernmost in a chain of

– Maryann dean

This photo was taken near the summit of China Knows mountain, just south of Houston. The day was rainy with sunny breaks. The view from the top takes in much of the surrounding area and is breathtaking. There is a trail leading up to the top, and a person can stand on the edge of a cliff and see for miles around.

– Maryann dean

three lakes. The Stuart-Takla chain includes Stuart Lake, the Tachie River, Trembleur Lake, the Middle River, which has been designated a Provincial Heritage River, and finally the remote and spectacular Takla Lake. Takla is the fifth largest natural lake in the province at close to 90 kilometres in length.

Park size: 43 ha How To Get There: Paarens Beach is located less than a two-hour drive northwest of Prince George on the south shore of Stuart Lake and about 11 kilometres from the community of Fort St. James. From Prince George take Highway #16 west one hundred kilometres to Vanderhoof, at which point it is another 54 kilometres north on Highway #27.

Waterskiing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Vehicle Accessible Camping About This Park: There is no day-use area at Sowchea Bay Provincial Park (use facilities at Paarens Beach Provincial Park, just 5 km east on Sowchea Bay Road). This is a busy destination for boaters and anglers, with a single lane concrete boat launch available with limited parking. Park size: 13 ha How To Get There: From Prince George travel 100 km west on Highway 16 to Vanderhoof.

From Vanderhoof travel 55 km north on Highway 27 to Fort St. James. From Fort St. James travel 20 km west on Sowchea Bay Road.

Sowchea Bay

Mount Pope

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing, Pets on Leash, Swimming,

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Climbing, Cycling,

Hiking, Hunting, Wildlife Viewing

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Facilities: None About This Park: Mount Pope

is a day-use park popular with hikers and rockclimbers. A 6.5 km hiking trail to the peak provides a panoramic view of Stuart Lake and the mountains to the north. Thirty-nine climbing routes have been documented.

Natural values of Mount Pope park include rare plants and animal species associated with limestone rock formations and caves. Be advised that most of the land adjacent to Stones Bay Road and the southeast boundary of the park is privately owned. Park size: 2,030 ha How To Get There: Mount Pope is located about 7 kms northwest of Fort St. James on the northeast side of Stuart Lake.

Proceed through Fort St. James on Stuart Drive W and turn left (west) on Stones Bay Road. The trailhead parking lot is 4 kms down Stones Bay Road on the right.

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prince george west >>

Stuart Lake Marine

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Swimming Facilities: Walk-In/Wilderness Camping About This Park: The StuartTrembleur-Takla Lake boating system is located in north central British Columbia and comprises nearly 300 km of waterway. These long, narrow lakes are among the region’s most significant recreational features. The lakes offer great sports fishing opportunities for rainbow and lake trout, burbot, kokanee, and mountain whitefish. The chain is also part of the longest migration route of chinook and sockeye salmon in British Columbia. A series of small parks have been established along the system providing protected anchorages or attractive beaches. No facilities have been developed at these sites.

Stuart Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in the province

Rob Bryce is seen here fishing IN the end of the rainbow! A July 2011 storm passed over us as we fished the Skeena River, just outside of Terrace. As the storm moved over me, it placed Rob exactly in the rainbow - proving once and for all, that fishing is indeed the "pot of gold".

– glen MiKKelSen

at 90 km long with 270 km of shoreline. The main body of the lake is between 6 to 10 km wide and is road accessible at many locations. The northwestern

arm of the lake is narrower, has limited road access, and more of a wilderness feel.

Stuart Lake Marine Park consists of four lakeside sites protected as part of the Stuart-TrembleurTakla Lakes boating system. The Tachie River connects Stuart Lake to Trembleur Lake. The 26 km of river can be a challenge to navigate with fast water and small rapids. Trembleur Lake is almost 50 km long. It has an irregular shoreline with sheltered bays and coves and a scenic wilderness setting.

The Middle River flows from Takla Lake into Trembleur Lake.

The river, designated as a Provincial Heritage River, is 22 km long and navigable. At 96 km in length, Takla is the fifth largest lake in the province. There are three marine park sites on Takla Lake. There is sporadic road access on the east side of the lake.

Park size: Two Islands - 134 hectares (small coarse sand beach & anchorage site) Stuart Lake - 343 hectares (sandy beach; shallow bay) Jus K’etl’o Bay - 70 hectares 9 rocky or grass shoreline; attractive sheltered bay) North Arm - 23 hectares (pebble beach & grass shoreline; attractive sheltered bay with two small islands offshore)

How To Get There:

Two Islands - located close to the midpoint of the lake, these northern explorer | 22 | may 2012

are the two nearest island due south of the Stuart Lake site.

Stuart Lake - 32 km northwest of Fort St. James on the north shore of Stuart Lake; road access from Fort St. James is 30 km on Tachie Road and south 2 km to the lake on Hibiscus Road.

Jus K’etl’o Bay - located on the north shore 15 km west of the Tachie River on the northwestern arm of the lake; boat access only.

North Arm - located on the north shore 12 km northwest of Jus K’etlo Bay and 27 km west of the Tachie River on the northwestern arm of the lake; boat access only.

Mudzenchoot

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Fishing, Hunting,

Pets on Leash Facilities: None

About This Park: This 644 hectare park was designated in January of 2001. The high elevation area is characterized by dry meadows featuring unique vegetation types including cotton grass, erigerons, and aster type species. Park size: 644 ha How To Get There: The park is located about 90 km northwest of Fort St. James. The nearest road access is the Witch forest service road off the Germansen Landing North road.

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prince george

Picking blueberries around the Crooked River campsite at Bear Lake.

– Karen Brulotte

The hike to War Falls on the road to Carp Lake is scenic and rewarding. A great family hike!

– Karen Brulotte

Rock throwing at the base of War Falls – a great family hike!

– Karen Brulotte

A scenic walk on the War Falls trail takes you to this breathtaking viewpoint!

Enjoying the serenity at the base of War Falls.

– Karen Brulotte

– Karen Brulotte

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prince george north >>

John Dahl REGIONAL PARK John Dahl Regional Park is located within the District of Mackenzie. The Regional Park contains the 2.2 km long Barb Dahl trail, the 1.5 km long Dick Dauphinee trail, and viewpoints overlooking Morfee Lakes.

There is also a playground area for children. Trails remain open year round and provide walking/hiking experiences in spring, summer and fall. Camping is not permitted.

Whiskers Point

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing,

Hiking, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Waterskiing, Wildlife Viewing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit and Flush Toilets, Playground, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Whiskers Point Provincial Park supplies a welcome stop-over point

as well as a relaxing destination for an extended family retreat. Lakeside camping is at its best in this quiet, forested park situated on a peninsula reaching into historic McLeod Lake, creating seclusion and a sheltered southern exposure.

This park features a beautiful sandy beach, representation of the wet, cool sub-boreal spruce forest. Park size: 116 ha How To Get There: Located 130 km north of Prince George on Highway 97. Communities close to this park include Mackenzie, Mcleod Lake, Bear Lake and Prince George.

Carp Lake PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Group Camping, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Playground, Sani-Station/Dump, Vehicle

Accessible Camping, Walk-In/Wilderness Camping About This Park: Carp Lake Provincial Park is nearly in the exact centre of the province and offers some of the best fishing in the Central Interior.

The park includes Carp Lake, nearby War Lake, numerous smaller lakes and streams, and the 8-kilometre waterway that connects Carp and War Lakes and which forms the beginning of the McLeod River. The northern shoreline of Carp Lake has extensive sand beaches with broad belts of sand extending up to 300 meters offshore. Boaters and canoeists can choose among three island campsites which offer secluded camping. A short walk from the park’s second primary campground at War Lake brings visitors to War Falls, a spectacular cascade of water that comprises two distinct waterfalls separated by about 100 meters of rushing, white water.

Portions of the original aboriginal route to Fort McLeod

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have been developed into an exciting interpretive loop trail that departs from the main campground; this 3-km hike also provides access to Rainbow Lake and fine fly fishing on the McLeod River. Interpretive trail signs are located along the trail to first beach, McLeod River Trail and the War Falls Trail. Park size: 38,149 ha How To Get There: Carp Lake Park is two hours drive northwest of Prince George. The main access road to the park joins Highway 97 (the John Hart Highway) at the community of McLeod Lake, 141 km north of Prince George. It is 32 km from McLeod Lake to the Carp Lake Campground. This gravel road is single lane over part of its length, and has some rough surfaces and tight corners. The road may not be suitable for cars or trailers during the spring break-up period. Some portions of the road must be shared with industrial traffic. The closest communities, towns and cities are Prince George, Bear Lake, McLeod Lake and MacKenzie.

prince george north >>

Tudyah Lake PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing,

Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Waterskiing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Group Camping, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Tudyah Lake Provincial Park, on the southern shore of Tudyah Lake, offers a lakeside haven for travellers to MacKenzie or the Pine Pass. The lake is also a convenient base for fishing on the nearby Parsnip River. The site of Melville Lodge that was in operation in the 1960s. Park size: 56 ha How To Get There: Located 9 km north of McLeod Lake on Highway 97. Tudyah Lake lies in a wide, open section of the Rocky Mountain Trench, just before highway 39 branches off toward Mackenzie.

Bijoux Falls PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Hiking, Pets on Leash,

Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Bijoux Falls Provincial Park is a day use park only. This park is easily accessible off Hwy 97 and provides a view of Bijoux Falls with excellent photography opportunities and a pleasant highway rest stop. Park size: 40 ha How To Get There: Bijoux Falls Park is located 44 km north of McLeod Lake on Highway 97. The nearest communities, towns and cities are Prince George, MacKenzie, Chetwynd and McLeod Lake.

Pine Le Moray PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: Tucked amidst the rugged Hart Ranges of the Rocky Mountains, Pine

Le Moray Provincial Park and Protected Area provides scenic splendor and a welcome retreat for visitors travelling the Hart Highway. The camping area is located adjacent to Heart Lake and is a picturesque and tranquil location. Self propelled and electric motored boats only allowed on Heart Lake. No gas powered boats. Park size: 43,245 ha How To Get There: Pine Le Moray Provincial Park and Protected Area is located on the east and west slopes of the continental divide, 70 km southwest of Chetwynd and 50 km northeast of McLeod Lake.

The park’s northern and northwestern boundary is adjacent to Highway 97 near Pine Pass.

The park can also be accessed via a forest service road on the east side along Le Moray Creek.

Cadence Coyne had a great time playing at the sandy beach of Mcleod Lake only minutes away from our beautiful forested campground at Whiskers Point Provincial Park. The park is a really clean, family oriented treasure that we all enjoyed very much. – norM Coyne

Heather - Dina Lakes

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing

the turnoff to Heather Lake and the site is located less than 1km from the turnoff. The Dina Lake

Facilities:

Boat Launch, Campfires, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: This newly designated park is located along the eastern edge of Williston Lake, approximately 25km north of Mackenzie, British Columbia. The park is comprised of mature, mixed forest and is dotted with numerous, small lakes. Two primitive campground/day-use areas are located at Heather Lake and Dina Lake respectively. Park size: 5,786 ha How To Get There: The Parsnip West Forest Service Road (PWFSR) can be reached from Highway 39 by heading north from the closest community of Mackenzie for approximately 10km. There are two main entry points into the park, both of which are accessed from the PWFSR. The gravel road is suitable for most two-wheel drive vehicles during the summer, but four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended during wet weather. A sign near the 25km marker of the PWFSR indicates northern explorer | 25 | may 2012

site is also marked with a sign and is located approximately 31km on the PWFSR.

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prince george north >>

Bocock Peak

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Caving, Cycling,

Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Campfires, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: Bocock Peak Provincial Park is a remote, high elevation park located on the continental divide in the headwaters of the Peace River.

It contains distinct geological features such as limestone cave systems and preserves important wildlife habitat. Park size: 1,143 ha How To Get There: Bocock Peak Provincial Park is located south of the Peace Arm of Williston Lake and adjacent to Eleven Mile Creek, approximately 70 km west of Hudson’s Hope.

There are no designated trails to this remote area.

Moberly Lake PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Waterskiing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Playground, Sani-Station/ Dump, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Moberly Lake Provincial Park is situated on the southern shore of Moberly Lake which is situated on the boundary between the Rocky Mountain foothills to the west and the Peace plateau to the east. The lake itself lies in a

broad shallow valley of the Moberly River, about 96 km from its junction with the Peace River. Park size: 98 ha How To Get There: Located approximately 25 kilometers northwest of Chetwynd on Highway #29; 3 km paved road access.

The image of mountains and forest are perfectly mirrored in the placid, evening waters of the Crooked River near McLeod Lake.

– nataSha harriSon

Pine River Breaks

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Campfires, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: Pine River Breaks Provincial Park with its open grassland hillsides protects a scenic landscape along the Pine River. Mixed forests of trembling aspen and spruce provide shelter for mule deer and other ungulates, especially in winter. Visitors to this unique area can access it via a short hike from the Sundance Pit Road or by boat along the Pine River. Park size: 615 ha How To Get There: Pine River Breaks Provincial Park is located on the north side of the Pine River, approximately halfway between the District of Chetwynd and East Pine River, near Sundance Lakes on Highway 97. The site is several kilometres north of Mount Wartenbe in the extreme southern portion of the Peace Lowlands. Access is via Highway 97, and south at Sundance Lakes along a trail through private property (L813), or through Sundance Pit Road that leads towards a trail on crown land and into the

park. Visitors can also access the area by using the boat launch located at East Pine Provincial Park and boating up the Pine River.

East Pine

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling, Fishing, Pets on Leash

Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires

About This Park: Situated near

the junction of the East Pine and Murray Rivers in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, East Pine Provincial Park provides visitors with fishing, canoeing and boating opportunities on both rivers.

Park size: 14.2 ha How To Get There: Located 30 km east of Chetwynd on Highway 97.

Gwillim Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Climbing,

Cycling, Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Scuba Diving, Swimming, Waterskiing, Wildlife Viewing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Playground, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Walk-In/Wilderness Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Winds whispering through the pine forests, waves lapping at the shoreline, Gwillim Lake Provincial Park provides a peaceful outdoor experience. Set in the picturesque Rocky Mountain Foothills on Highway 29, a half-hour’s drive

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from Chetwynd and Tumbler Ridge and the massive Northeast Coal development, visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, swimming, hiking, fishing and a viewpoint that provides a panoramic vista of the superb Rocky Mountain scenery. Park size: 32,326 ha How To Get There: Located 56 km southeast of Chetwynd; take Highway 29 south off Highway 97 (paved access).

Sukunka Falls

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities:Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding. Pets on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Campfires, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: 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.

Park size: 360 ha How To Get There: Sukunka Falls Provincial Park is located approximately 45 km south of Chetwynd via the ChetwyndTumbler 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.

prince george north >>

Hole in the Wall

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Hiking, Horseback

Riding, Pets on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Campfires, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: Hole-In-TheWall is named after the resurgence spring which emerges from a limestone rock wall. This type of feature occurs when water travels underground through a complex series of caves. The water flow may then travel along the surface of the impermeable rock until it reaches the surface as a spring.

Surrounded by lush vegetation and a spectacular vertical blue-gray wall of limestone, this geological feature is impressive and easily accessible via a short 40 m walk from the road. Park size: 137 ha How To Get There: Hole In The Wall Provincial Park is located 50 km along the Sukunka Forest Service Road. The closest communities, towns and cities are Tumbler Ridge and Chetwynd.

Bearhole Lake PROVINCIAL PARK AND PROTECTED AREA Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Walk-In/Wilderness Camping About This Park: Fishing, canoeing, camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing are just some of the outdoor pursuits that can all be enjoyed in Bearhole Lake Provincial Park and Protected Area. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy seeing nesting trumpeter swans or listening to many of the warblers found in and around the area. Park size: 17460 ha How To Get There: Bearhole Lake Provincial Park and Protected Area is located 25 km east of Tumbler Ridge on the Alberta Plateau. Access is via 20 km west along the Kiskatinaw Forest Service Road You can access the Forestry Road from the Heritage Highway. Please note:

Whiskers Point is a laid-back refuge from our busy lives only 90 kms north of Prince George. Its sandy beaches and sunny, southern exposures give one the feeling of being at some exotic, distant resort. The waters are cool, refreshing and crystal clear, walking trails through the forest are abundant, and birds and animals abound. – dave harriSon

This adult golden eagle was spotted at Whiskers Point eating a freshly-caught fish. In North America, this raptor is often found from Alaska to California, including BC. This species has broad wings and brown feathers accented by golden-brown plumage on its head and neck. Their territory can span 155 sq. kms and when they mate, they often mate for life. – dave harriSon on The Forestry Road is not usually maintained and becomes rutted and slippery after rains.

Monkman

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Caving, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Walk-In/Wilderness Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Monkman Provincial Park, nestled in the Hart Ranges of the Central Rocky

Mountains and Foothills, covers 62,867 hectares of diverse natural landscapes encompassing extensive alpine meadows, jagged mountain peaks, forested valleys, thundering waterfalls and clear alpine lakes. The park has a diverse water system that includes the Murray and Monkman drainages. Scenic rapids, waterfalls, streams and lakes all contribute to the dramatic visual impact of the landscape.

The northern section of Monkman Provincial Park features Kinuseo Falls, where the Murray River plunges 60 metres over a geological fault to the river bed below. This thunderous cascade

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of water is higher than Niagara Falls and provides many visitors with the highlight of their trip.

Park size: 62,867 ha How To Get There: Monkman Provincial Park is located on the Murray River Road, 60 kilometres south of Tumbler Ridge.

Several roads provide access to this community. Turn south off Highway 29 at Chetwynd, or turn south on Highway 52 approximately 17 kilometres west of Dawson Creek. Visitors travelling on Highway 2 to or from Dawson Creek can also turn south on Highway 52, near the BC/Alberta border.

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prince george north >>

Wapiti Lake PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing,

Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Cabins / Huts / Yurts, Campfires, Pit Toilets, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Wapiti Lake Provincial Park with its fast flowing rivers, crystal clear lakes and surrounding mountains provide outstanding scenic viewing, fishing and wilderness camping opportunities. Park size: 16 809 ha How To Get There: Wapiti Lake Provincial Park is located about 60 km south of Tumbler Ridge in the upper portions of the Wapiti River drainage. It is accessed via the Wapiti River Forest Service Road. Follow this road to kilometre 29 and turn right onto a road that leads to an old well site. The trail starts at the southwest corner of this site. The trail is approximately 19 km and follows the north side of the Wapiti River and the shores of a few smaller lakes.

A view of Wapiti Falls can be achieved by following a short 200 metre trail off the main trail at kilometre 7. Be sure to bring your camera, as the scenic views are plentiful.

One Island Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Pets on Leash, Scuba Diving, Swimming, Waterskiing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Playground, Vehicle Accessible Camping About This Park: Located in the Alberta Plateau, this small park is situated by a clear lake noted for its fishing opportunities.

Activities include bird watching, fishing, swimming and just relaxing.

How To Get There: Located 60 km southeast of Dawson Creek.

Take Hwy #2 east of Dawson Creek for 30 km and look for the Park signs.

near Mackenzie.

The kids don’t appear very interested in their Mom catching The Big One, at Murky Lake – nathan PhilliPS

Swan Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Scuba Diving, Swimming, Waterskiing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Playground, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: A small picturesque lakeshore park that offers boating, swimming, a grassy campground and day-use area, baseball diamonds and playground area. Park size: 82 ha How To Get There: Located 35 kilometres southeast of Dawson Creek, 2 km gravel access off Highway #2.

Kiskatinaw

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Cycling, Fishing,

Pets on Leash, Swimming Facilities: Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Playground, Vehicle Accessible Camping About This Park: The park is

located along the banks of the Kiskatinaw River on the original Alaska Highway, near a historic wooden curved trestle bridge.

From Kiskatinaw Provincial Park, visitors can take a stroll to the bridge and reflect upon the unique history of the Alaska Highway. Jump in the river for a refreshing swim or spend the day fishing.

How To Get There: Located 28 km north of Dawson Creek off Highway 97 (Alaska Highway) on the Old Alaska Highway.

Kiskatinaw River

PROTECTED AREA Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: None About This Park: Visitors to Kiskatinaw River Protected Area will enjoy the scenic grasslands and have a good opportunity to view wildlife, such as mule deer, on the open hillsides. Bald eagles and other raptors can be seen regularly flying along the river corridors. Park size: 198 ha

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How To Get There: Kiskatinaw

River Protected Area is located at the confluence of the Kiskatinaw and Peace Rivers about 10 km from the Alberta border.

There is no road access to this park.

Taylor Landing PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing,

Pets on Leash Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Pit Toilets About This Park: Launching your boat at Taylor Landing Provincial Park gives you access to the Peace, Pine, Beatton and Halfway Rivers. BC Hydro controls water levels in the Peace River. These levels may increase or decrease without notice. It is suggested to check with BC Hydro before setting out on your trip. Boaters should watch out for gravel bars.

Park size: 2.4 ha How To Get There: Located at Mile 36 of the Alaska Highway, 1 kilometre south of the community of Taylor on the south side of the Taylor Bridge.

prince george north >>

Butler Ridge PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing

Facilities: Boat Launch,

Campfires, Pit Toilets, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: Located on the north shore of Williston Lake’s Peach Reach, Butler Ridge

Provincial Park provides boat access to B.C.’s largest manmade lake and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing and hiking.

The ridge itself extends 15 km south to north throughout the

entire length of the park and is accessed via a trail on the park’s south side. Park size: 6024 ha How To Get There: Located 40 km west of Hudson’s Hope off Highway 29; gravel road access.

Here is Mike Quarenghi gazing lovingly at a wonderful Lake Trout caught in the magical waters of the Nation River.

– glen MiKKelSen

Here is a Lake Trout from the Nation River gazing lovingly at the camera, with Mike Quarenghi looking on.

– glen MiKKelSen

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prince george north >>

Beatton River

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities:Canoeing, Fishing,

Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: None About This Park: Beatton River Provincial Park protects rich riparian habitat at the confluence of the Beatton and Peace Rivers. Visitors to the area can best access the park by boat.

Enjoy a picnic, watch wildlife or relax on the river’s edge and appreciate the surrounding scenic views. Park size: 186 ha How To Get There: Beatton River Provincial Park is located at the confluence of the Beatton and Peace Rivers. The park is approximately 40 km from Fort St. John.

Beatton PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Waterskiing, Windsurfing

Facilities: Boat Launch,

Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Playground, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Beatton Provincial Park is a year round recreational facility located on the shores of Charlie Lake. This 320 hectare park is a popular summer recreation destination for swimming, fishing and hiking. Park size: 330 ha How To Get There: This park is located 13 km northwest of Fort St. John off Highway #97 on the 244 road, approximately a 20 minute drive.

Peace River Corridor

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing,

Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Campfires, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: Peace River Corridor Provincial Park pro-

tects a series of islands within the Peace River Canyon as well as some scenic grassland habitats on the Peace River shoreline. Three distinct areas have been identified: Peace River Corridor Island Site: this area, along the south shore of the Peace River, west of Kiskatinaw Creek, provides visitors with good fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, camping and picnicking areas along the river and around Raspberry Island.

Wak’anaahtaah: translated means a place to look at. On the north shore of the Peace River west of Alces Creek, geological formations called hoodoos have developed.

Alces River: at this location, there is a scenic viewpoint and picnic site overlooking the Peace River. The area is sparsely treed with grasslands dominating the south facing slopes.

Park size: 2014 ha How To Get There: Peace River Corridor Provincial Park is located 40 km southeast of Fort

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St. John along a section of the Peace River 25 km upstream of the Alberta border. Road access is via Highway 97 and rural roads.

Charlie Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Playground, Sani-Station/Dump, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Charlie Lake Provincial Park is situated on the southwestern shore of 13 km long Charlie Lake. Covering some 92 hectares, the park lies within the rolling landscape of the Interior Plains. Park Size: 176 ha

How To Get There:

The park is located 11 km north of Fort St. John at the junction of the Alaska Highway and Highway 29.

south

prince george

Hixon is a great place to visit, located along Highway 97 South, halfway between Prince George and Quesnel. Take a day trip and hike to the Hixon Falls, try your luck with gold panning in the creek or take a swim. Drive some of the back roads, you are sure to see wildlife. We have motels and campgrounds if you decide to spend the weekend. – Pat Suter

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prince george south >>

Ten Mile Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Waterskiing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit and Flush Toilets, Playground, SaniStation/Dump, Showers, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Ten Mile Lake is a very popular recreational destination for local residents and visitors. It offers a large picnic area, three sandy beaches, a boat launch, and great fishing not to mention attractive, treed campsites.

A 2-km nature trail to a large beaver pond, through forest and along an abandoned railroad is very rewarding to hike. Park size: 260 ha

How To Get There:

Approximately 12 km north of Quesnel on Highway #97.

Pinnacles

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Hiking, Pets on Leash,

Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Pit Toilet About This Park: This park comprises approximately 124 hectares of pine forest overlooking Baker Creek. From the viewpoint, visitors enjoy the unique formation of “Hoodoos�, and a picturesque view of the city of Quesnel and Baker Creek.

The park a pleasant 1 km hike along a well maintained trail to the viewpoint; allow 15 minutes for access. The hoodoos are fragile, please do not climb on or near them. Park size: 128 ha How To Get There: The park is located 8 km from downtown Quesnel. It can be accessed via Pinnacles Road (paved) in west Quesnel off of Highway 97.

Puntchesakut Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Pets on Leash,

Swimming, Waterskiing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets About This Park: This park comprises approximately 38 hectares of gently rolling aspen forest. Located on the east side of Puntchesakut Lake, the park offers 1200 metres of waterfront, including a beautiful stretch of sandy beach. Angling for trout in the spring and fall is perhaps the most popular pursuit, with anglers often catching trout up to 3 lb in size. Park size: 38 ha How To Get There: The park is located approximately 40 km west of Quesnel. It can be accessed via Nazko Road, and the trip takes approximately 25 minutes.

Kluskoil Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Swimming

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Facilities: Pit Toilets, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping

About This Park: Kluskoil Lake

Park provides a variety of recreational opportunities, and protects valuable wildlife habitat in Sub-boreal PineSpruce forest and wetlands.

Park Size: 15,548 ha How To Get There: The park is located 100 km northwest of Quesnel. To get there, travel 10 km west on the Nazko Highway to the Bouchie Lake School. Turn right onto the Blackwater Road until it joins the Batnuni Road. Follow the Batnuni Road, and turn off to the left at the 108 km mark.

This track will lead to the upper crossing of the Euchiniko River (at the south end of Titetown Lake). This crossing is several feet deep most of the year, and even higher during spring runoff. From here one can travel 18 km to Kluskoil Lake on the Alexander Mackenzie Heritage Trail Lake by foot, horseback, mountain bike, ATV or high clearance 4x4.

prince george south >>

Nazko Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Pit Toilets, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: This park provides canoeing, fishing, camping and wildlife viewing in a natural environment, while protecting extensive wetlands for moose and aquatic furbearers. This is a wilderness park, offering a two to three day wilderness canoe circuit, along with three rustic, vehicle-access campgrounds at Summit, Loomis and Deerpelt Lakes.

Summit and Loomis Lakes are NOT connected to the canoe chain. Park size: 12,419 ha How To Get There: The park is located in the northern part of the Chilcotin Plateau northwest of Alexis Creek. Access is on logging roads and a dirt track. Drivers of two wheel

– Pat Suter drive vehicles should have no problems, provided they do not go beyond Deerpelt Lake. The alternate route is recommended during wet weather.

Nazko Lake Park Access: Take Highway 20 west from Williams Lake. Pass through the village of Alexis Creek (111 km from Williams Lake). Bull Canyon Park is six km further on. At the top of the hill past this small park, look for the Alexis Lakes Road and turn right. Travel approximately 32 km on the Alexis Lakes Road then turn left onto the 4600 Road (CluskoAneko Forest Service Road).

The road to Loomis Lake and the Nazko Lake Canoe Chain is at kilometre 11.5, on the right, just past the 4645 marker sign.

Loomis Lake is 11 km from the 4600 Road, and Deerpelt Lake, where the Canoe Chain starts, is about another 2.5 km.

Alternate Route: Travelling west on Highway 20 approximately 67 km west of Williams Lake (or 21 km west of Riske Creek), turn right on

the 1300 Road (also called Bush Road or Alex Graham/Raven Lake Forest Service Road).

Continue on the 1300 Road for approximately 44 km. Just past the 45 marker sign on the 1300

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Road turn left onto the 4600 Road. Travel for 45.5 km. The access road to the Nazko Lake Canoe Chain is on the right, just past the 4645 marker sign.

Continue as above.

prince george south >>

Bull Canyon PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Cycling, Fishing,

Hiking, Pets on Leash Facilities: Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: This park is a small campground along Highway 20, ideal for visitors travelling in the Chilcotin.It is located in a beautiful canyon, with the Chilcotin River flowing past the campground. There is a short walking trail beside the river, and the surrounding area supports excellent fishing lakes, birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities. People can view shallow caves in Bull Canyon Mountain on the Chilcotin River Interpretive Trail.

How To Get There: Six kilometres west of the community of Alexis Creek, off Highway 20. The nearest communities, towns and cities are Alexis Creek, Redstone, Hanceville and Williams Lake.

Facilities: Boat Launch, Cabins/

White Pelican

PROVINCIAL PARK About This Park: Stum Lake,

within White Pelican Provincial Park, is closed to the public from March 1 - August 31 every year to protect the White Pelican nesting colony. This colony of American White Pelicans is the only nesting colony in British Columbia.

They are very sensitive to disturbance; disturbances can result in the loss of all young.

Pelican viewing opportunities exist at Nazko Lake Park and in other lakes in the Chilcotin.

Park size: 2763 hectares How To Get There: White Pelican Park is located approximately 60 km northwest of Williams Lake on the Chilcotin Plateau.

Bowron Lake

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming

Huts/Yurts, Campfires, Drinking Water, Group Camping, Pit Toilets, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Walk-In/Wilderness Camping About This Park: Bowron Lake Park is a large wilderness area situated on the western slopes of the Cariboo Mountain Range. The world-renowned Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit encompasses a 116 km chain of lakes, waterways and connecting portages. This wilderness canoe trip takes from 6 to 10 days to complete, depending on your time frame and skill level. For those looking for a shorter trip, the west side of the circuit can be paddled in 2 to 4 days. The park has tremendous diversity in topography and vegetation.

The rounded hilltops of the Quesnel Highlands on the west side of the circuit have a unique character quite different from the imposing Cariboo Mountains on the eastern and southern sections of the circuit.

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The park is a place of many moods, from bright sunshine and placid blue lakes to angry gray waters and torrential rains.

Bowron Lake Park also has a very pleasant 25 unit drive-in campground located near the Registration Centre, a short distance from Bowron Lake itself. There are also a few short walking trails nearby. Park size: 149,207 ha.

How To Get There: Bowron Lake Park is located about 120 kilometers east of Quesnel.

Drive north on Highway 97 through Quesnel, then follow signs onto Highway 26, which leads through Wells.

Approximately 1km before the historic townsite of Barkerville, turn left onto the Bowron Lake Road. From there it’s another 27 km to the park entrance on a wide, well-graded dirt road where a 25 unit frontcountry campground and the 116 km wilderness canoe circuit are located.

prince george south >> These photos are of the historic ghost town of Quesnel Forks.

It’s near Quesnel Lake, at the confluence of the Cariboo and Quesnel Rivers.

It dates back to the 1860’s, and many of the buildings are being restored. What a lovely peaceful spot to try gold panning or wander through the ancient town site.

– dollie Morgan

Cariboo River

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing,

Hunting

Facilities: Boat Launch,

Campfires, Walk-In/Wilderness Camping About This Park: This linear park protects a large portion of the upper Cariboo River and surrounding wetlands, from Kimball Lake downstream to where the river enters Cariboo Lake. The waterfalls, old-growth and estuaries at this park can be accessed via canoe or power boat. The park provides opportunities for water-based recreation: canoeing, rafting and power boating. Park size: 3,211 ha How To Get There: Vehicle access is on logging roads from Likely or Barkerville in snow free months only. The park is located approximately 90 km from the town of Likely on the 8400 Road or 70 km from the town of Barkerville on the 3100 Road. Please drive with caution on these active logging roads. Use your headlights at all times. The closest communities, towns and cities are Wells, Likely, Barkerville, Quesnel and Williams Lake.

Cariboo Mountains

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing,

Hunting, Pets on Leash, Swimming

Facilities: Campfires, Pit Toilet,

Vehicle Accessible Camping, Walk-In/Wilderness Camping About This Park: Cariboo Mountains Provincial Park is true wilderness, dominated by high serrated peaks and glaciers, and densely forested valleys featuring ancient redcedar and hemlock, attractive lakes and lush wetlands. The Park is situated in the interior wet belt between Bowron and Wells Gray Provincial Parks.

These parks now create one continuous protected area in the Cariboo Mountains that is over 760,000 hectares in size.

Vehicle access camping is available at Ghost Lake. This small, remote site features views down the lake and up into the surrounding mountains, and is adjacent to the scenic Matthew River Falls.

Park Ssize: 113,469 ha How To Get There: The park is located northeast of Likely and east of Quesnel. The Ghost Lake camping area can be accessed by travelling to Barkerville from Quesnel via Highway 26, and then taking the 3100 Forestry Road (gravel) from Barkerville. The park is located approximately 70 km (allow 1.5 hours) from Barkerville on the 3100 road. This is an active logging road: please drive cautiously with headlights on.

Turn left onto a sign-posted 4-km access road, which leads to the camping area.

Another route to Ghost Lake

is via Likely (about 90 km). The 8400 Road (Cariboo Lake Road) from Likely leads north past Cariboo Lake, and eventually connects up with the 3100 Road. Follow this to the Ghost Lake turnoff (signed), turn right and drive another 4 km to the campsite. The park can also be accessed from the McBride Valley via the Castle Creek

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Forest Service Road, which leads up Castle Creek and ends about 5 km from the park boundary.

Cariboo Mountains Provincial Park can also be accessed from Quesnel Lake by boat or along logging roads. However, no trails link Bowron Lake and Wells Gray Provincial Parks to Cariboo Mountains Provincial Park.

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northern explorer | 43 | may 2012

prince george south >>

Cedar Point

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Waterskiing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Group Camping, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Playground, Sani-Station/Dump, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Cedar Point Park is situated on Quesnel Lake, six km from the town of Likely. Old growth cedars are located throughout the park including the campground area. Quesnel Lake offers spectacular scenery and excellent swimming, boating and fishing. The park offers a unique outdoor “mining museum” featuring mock shafts, adits and old machinery.

Park size: 8 ha How To Get There: Drive to Likely via 150 Mile House (120 km northeast) or via McLeese Lake (about 120 km due east)

off Hwy 97. The park is 6 km beyond Likely. The closest communities, towns and cities are Likely, Horsefly and Williams Lake.

Horsefly Lake PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Pets on Leash, Scuba Diving, Swimming, Waterskiing, Wildlife Viewing, Windsurfing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilets, Playground, Showers, Vehicle Accessible Camping, WalkIn/Wilderness Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: This park offers a popular 23 site campground and day-use area which has a developed beach, a horseshoe pit and a nature trail. This is a large, deep lake and is usually fished on a troll - included are a number of smaller lakes excellent for fly-fishing. Fir, spruce, birch and cedar clothe

My grandson Dawson, having a blast,kayaking on Spanish Lake.

I would recommend taking the kids fishing and camping at Spanish Lake. The scenery is spectacular and it’s a nice campsite.

– dollie Morgan the slopes along the lower reaches of Dillabough Creek at the west end of Horsefly Lake - a semi-wilderness water body penetrating the Quesnel Highlands. There are old growth cedars and Douglas firs throughout the park. There are two unnamed lakes in the park, once the site of a hatchery operated to restore the run of sockeye to the Horsefly River.

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Park size: 148 ha

How To Get There: The park

is located on Horsefly Lake, approximately 65 km from 150 Mile House off Highway 97; 55 km of the route is paved, and 10 km is well-maintained gravel. The closest community is Horsefly, located 13 km southwest of the park. Other communities are Likely and Williams Lake.

east

prince george

e of Mount Robson and udless sky and took this pictur k on a 32 km trek We were delighted at the clo bar em untain. We were about to b Mount Resplendent. its neighbour Resplendent Mo und Robson on our way to clim aro and il Tra e Lak g Ber the – Quentin PhilliPS up

Emperor Falls is the most powerful and impr essive falls on the Berg Lake Trail, or anywhere in Central B.C. Its massive size is shown by the way it dwarfs my brother who is standing near it.

– nathan PhilliPS

Just as you reach the end of the Berg Lake Trail the determined hiker is rewarded with what might be the most picturesque scene in Robson Park as majestic Mt. Robson towers above you.

– orlando PhilliPS

This was taken just north of Dunkley, the area is very picturesque,especially with a rainbow background. The lush green field contrasts the dark threatening sky.

– Katrina PhilliPS

A pleasant breeze cools the hiker when reaching the incredibly beautiful Berg Lake.

– orlando PhilliPS northern explorer | 45 | may 2012

prince george east >> access to a large sandy beach.

Camping is not permitted.

George Hicks REGIONAL PARK

As you drive along Highway 16 East towards McBride, watch for moose. – Pat Suter

Cedarside REGIONAL PARK Cedarside Regional Park is 18.5 ha in size and is located 3 km south of Valemount on Little Cranberry Lake. This regional

park is a very popular spot to enjoy a swim in the lake or just laze in the sun on the large sandy beach. Facilities include a large parking area, toilets, picnic tables, fire pits and easy

George Hicks Regional Park is 2.5 ha in size and is located at Valemount, BC along Swift Creek. The Park has a small trail and lookout platform that provides excellent salmon viewing opportunities in late July to mid August. The Chinook Salmon come from the Pacific Ocean, up the Fraser River and then enter Swift Creek to spawn. Facilities at George Hicks include bus parking, an information kiosk, picnic tables, toilets and a viewing platform.

Koeneman

REGIONAL PARK Koeneman Regional Park is located in McBride. The 4.5 ha park provides a pastoral picture on the east side of the Fraser River. A notable feature is the dovetail cornered log house.

Facilities include picnic tables, fire pits, toilets, and a large open field. A new picnic shelter is under construction. Camping is not permitted.

Sugarbowl - Grizzly Den PROVINCIAL PARK & PROTECTED AREA Activities: Cycling, Fishing,

Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Cabins / Huts / Yurts, Campfires, Walk-In/Wilderness Camping About This Park: The park is located on Highway 16 approximately 95 km east of Prince George and includes the Grand Canyon of the Fraser. This park protects a component of old growth interior cedar-hemlock, and provides excellent habitat for grizzly bear, martin and caribou. It is also an important caribou movement corridor.

The area includes a developed trail system that offers popular alpine backcountry recreation opportunities close to Prince George. Park size: 24,765 ha How To Get There: The park is located about 95 km southeast of Prince George on Highway 16. To access both the Grizzly northern explorer | 46 | may 2012

Den Trail and Raven Lake Trail drive east following Highway 16 to Hungary Creek, a distance of approximately 88 km from the east end of the Yellowhead Bridge in Prince George. As you travel along Highway 16 east you will pass by the Sugarbowl Trailhead (80 km) and the Viking Ridge Trailhead (85 km), both within the boundaries of Sugarbowl - Grizzly Den Provincial Park. About .3 kms past Hungary Creek, turn right on to the Hungary Creek Forest Road and drive south keeping on the main road. After about 13 kms you will reach the Grizzly Den Trailhead parking lot, and about 2.6 km beyond this parking lot you will reach the Raven Lake Trailhead parking lot.

Evanoff PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Caving, Hiking,

Hunting, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Walk-In/Wilderness Camping About This Park: The park is situated in the Hart Ranges of the Canadian Rockies. This park protects one of the most remarkable caves, the nationally significant Fang Cave complex, which includes the ninth longest cave in Canada. Other caves include the Tooth Decave and Window on the West. The park also provides a scenic, easily accessible destination for backcountry recreation. It includes picturesque alpine bowls, three small alpine lakes, and distinctive limestone pinnacles and ridges. Two separate trails, the Fang Trail and Torpy Trail provide access to small alpine basins, with a connection over Fang Mountain. The Torpy Trail continues outside the park to Torpy Mountain. Park size: 1,473 ha How To Get There: The park is located approximately 121 km east of Prince George along Highway 16, the Bowron Forest Service Road and Pass Lake Road in the McGregor Mountains. Prince George is the closest community. There are two points to access the park - one from the west end just to the north of Pass Lake and one from the Upper Torpy Road and then through a logging block up to the south boundary.

prince george east >>

Arctic Pacific Lakes

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Fishing,

Hiking, Hunting, Swimming Facilities: Walk-In/Wilderness Camping About This Park: The main feature of this park is three small lakes that straddle the Continental Divide in a narrow, steep-sided glacial overflow channel. Arctic Lake is located in the headwaters of the Parsnip River that eventually drains into the Arctic Ocean. Portage and Pacific Lakes drain via James Creek into Herrick Creek and the McGregor River, which empties into the Fraser River on the way to the Pacific. The lakes are a beautiful turquoise colour, and situated in a very scenic area, with alpine peaks and ridges as a distant backdrop.

Valley bottoms alongside the lakes support wet meadows and mixed forest. Valley sides include extensive avalanche chutes and small, picturesque waterfalls. Diverse fish populations including lake trout, bull trout, rainbow trout, kokanee, dolly varden, mountain whitefish, redside shiner, lake char, and chinook salmon, and arctic grayling in Arctic Lake. Park size: 13,887 ha How To Get There: This protected area is located in a remote area 90 km Northeast of Prince George. A logging road in the Parsnip Valley provides access to within a short distance of the park, boat access is also possible via the Parsnip River and Arctic Creek.

Close To The Edge

PROVINCIAL PARK AND PROTECTED AREA Activities: Caving, Hiking,

Hunting

Facilities: None About This Park: This 702 hect-

are park and protected area is located approximately 160 km northeast of Prince George.

There is logging road access within 5 km of the park/protected area. The park/protected area is situated in the Dezaiko Range of the Rocky Mountains.

This park protects the internationally significant Close To The Edge cave, which has the

deepest shaft and is the third deepest overall cave (472m) in Canada. The primary shaft drops 255 m straight down, and its diameter varies considerably (up to 30m).There are also additional, smaller caves in the park. Park size: 702 ha How To Get There: This park/ protected area is located approximately 160 km northeast of Prince George, and is accessible via the Pass Lake forest service road to Gleason creek.

Slim Creek

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Fishing, Hunting Facilities: None About This Park: Slim Creek

Provincial Park protects an oldgrowth cedar-hemlock forest, alluvial terraces and wetlands.

The park has no services or facilities. Park size: 506 ha How To Get There: Slim Creek Provincial park is located along highway 16, approximately 110 kms east of Prince George. The closest communities are Prince George and McBride

This photo is of the McKale River located on the trail the famous Renshaw Snowmobile area near McBride, BC. It is an excellent recreation area for sledders, quadders or mountain biking or hiking. This area has it all for all people to enjoy the clear mountain streams and fresh air. – allan Miller Provincial Park is close to the Ptarmigan Creek Protected Area, and the two parks share the same access road and

Erg Mountain PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Fishing, Hiking,

Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Walk-In/Wilderness Camping About This Park: This 1011 hectare park protects interior cedar hemlock forests on a valley slope above the Upper Fraser Trench, leading to alpine/subalpine area at the top of Erg Mountain. Erg Mountain has historically been a hiking destination, and offers an excellent viewpoint of the Upper Fraser Valley and surrounding mountains. On a good day, Mt. Sir Alexander in Kakwa Provincial Park is clearly visible. Extensive alpine ridge-top hiking outside of the park is accessible from the peak of Erg Mountain.

Special Feature: Mt. Vista views.

Park size: 1,011 ha How To Get There: The entrance to the park is about 5 km west of Crescent Spur, about 165 km east of Prince George along the Yellowhead (Highway 16) corridor approximately 500 m west of Catfish Creek. Erg Mountain northern explorer | 47 | may 2012

trailhead. The trailhead is 8 km in from Highway 16. The closest communities, towns and cities are Prince George and McBride.

prince george east >>

Ptarmigan Creek PROVINCIAL PARK AND PROTECTED AREA Activities: Fishing, Hiking,

Hunting, Pets on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Campfires, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: This park and protected area is a narrow, steep-sided valley at the north end of the Cariboo Mountains Ecosection above the Upper Fraser Trench. The park protects 4,633 hectares of the complete, intact watershed of the east branch of Ptarmigan Creek, a tributary to the Fraser River and habitat for Caribou and Grizzly Bears. Park size: 4,633 ha How To Get There: The access road to the park and protected area is about 5 km west of Crescent Spur, about 165 km east of Prince George along the Yellowhead (Highway 16) corridor, approximately 500 m west of Catfish Creek. Ptarmigan Creek Provincial Park is close to Erg Mountain Provincial Park, and

the two parks share to same access road and trail head. The trailhead is 8kms from highway 16.

Kakwa PROVINCIAL PARK AND PROTECTED AREA Activities: Climbing, Cycling,

Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Hunting, Pets on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Cabins / Huts / Yurts, Campfires, Pit Toilets, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: Kakwa Provincial Park showcases iceclad mountains, extensive alpine meadows and a section of the Continental Divide. Main physical features include Mount Sir Alexander (3270 m), Mount Ida (3189 m) and Kakwa Lake. The wide range of species diversity gives excellent opportunity for wildlife viewing. Visitors interested in photography will appreciate the incredible beauty of the remote area.

How To Get There: Located approximately 70 km north of

The strenuous trek up The Valley of a Thousand Falls doesn’t disappoint the determined hiker as the spectacular scenery is highlighted by the roaring Emperor Falls. – Quentin PhilliPS McBride in British Columbia.

The Kakwa Provincial Park can be accessed from McBride in B.C., Grand Prairie in Alberta, or by air charter.

West Twin

PROVINCIAL PARK AND PROTECTED AREA Activities: Hiking, Hunting,

Pets on Leash Facilities: Cabins / Huts / Yurts, Picnic Areas, Pit Toilet, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping About This Park: This provincial park was established to protect the rich wildlife values and the wide biogeoclimatic representation. Most of all, this park contains the only protected corridor across the Robson Valley trench. The area runs from the Cariboo Mountains in the south, through the main Robson Valley trench, and up the fronting ranges of the Rocky Mountains.

From the Alpine areas, there are incredible views of the valley.

Park size: 22,317 ha How To Get There: Located approximately 180 km southeast of Prince George by Highway 16 there is a pull out with a Forestry Interpretation Trail.

To access Boulder Mountain Hike, drive 166 km from Prince George on Highway 16 toward McBride and at the Goat River Forestry Road, turn in and drive another 1 km. Where a side road turns left park your vehicle. This is where the hike northern explorer | 48 | may 2012

begins. There is a popular hiking trail off the West Dore River Road (just northwest of McBride). This hike is 7 km to the cabin and then the hike can extend to various areas of the park.

Holliday Creek Arch PROTECTED AREA Activities: Hiking, Hunting,

Pets on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: None About This Park: This small protected area showcases a magnificent natural stone arch, a very rare feature of provincial significance. In excess of 80 metres wide and 18 metres high, this arch spans a steep, rocky gully. Mountain goats frequent this area, providing visitors an opportunity to view one of the most interesting geological features in the province, and a chance to see mountain goats in their natural habitat. The park has no road access, but it can be reached via an 8 km hiking trail from Highway 16.

This trail is extremely steep and rough and can be subject to snow, rock and debris slides.

Only hikers in excellent physical condition should attempt this trail. Park size: 395 ha How To Get There: This small 395 hectare protected area is located between the communities of Dunster and McBride, north of Highway 16.

prince george east >>

The magnificent Kiwa Glacier near Valemount cascades down from Mt. Sir John Abbott in the Premier Range. Kiwa Creek flows out of this lake and holds good numbers of Dolly Varden, a highly prized fish to go with the incredible scenery.

– Katrina PhilliPS

Small River Caves

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Caving Facilities: None About This Park: Small River

Caves Provincial Park protects a provincially important karst/ cave system. Located on the west side of the Small River drainage, high above the valley bottom, this cave complex is remote and difficult to access. It is considered to be a very dangerous cave system that should only be attempted by highly experienced cavers. In order to properly protect this fragile ecosystem, we require that all cavers get permission from BC Parks. Park size: 1,818 ha How To Get There: Located on the west side of the Small River drainage, high above the valley bottom, this cave complex is remote and difficult to access.

The closest communities include McBride and Valemount.

Lower & Upper Raush PROTECTED AREA Activites: Hunting Facilities: None About This Park: While the Up-

per and Lower Raush are two distinctly separate protected areas, their adjacency and similarity warrant we document them as one unit. These protected areas protect portions of an undeveloped, relatively pristine watershed.

Located on the south west side

of the Fraser River, just south of McBride, these protected areas have no road access or facilities of any kind. The Lower Raush protects excellent riparian wildlife habitat, while the Upper Raush protects a variety of biogeoclimatic subzones. Park size: Upper Raush 5,582 ha and Lower Raush 1,279 ha How To Get There: Located on the south west side of the Fraser River, just south of McBride, these protected areas have no road access or facilities of any kind. There is an old road on the east side of the Raush River, on private land, and permission from the owner must be obtained.

Rearguard Falls PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Fishing, Hiking, Pets

on Leash, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Campfires, Pit Toilets About This Park: The park viewpoint provides an excellent opportunity for travelers to witness the end of a long journey by the Chinook, largest of the Pacific salmon. From its estuary in British Columbia’s lower mainland to this point, the Chinook have traveled upstream over 1200 km. Some may be successful battling over these falls to reach the gravel above, but for most, Rearguard Falls marks the end of their journey.

Park size: 48 ha How To Get There: 285 km east of Prince George on Highway

On the Snowbird Pass trail one climbs abov e Robs gains a tremendous view of this less travelled on Glacier and area of Mount Robson Park. Resplendent Mountain looms above.

– nathan PhilliPS

16. The closest communities are Tete Jaune Cache, Valemount and McBride.

Jackman Flats PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Hiking, Horseback

Riding, Hunting, Wildlife Viewing

Facilities: Picnic Areas, Pit Toilet About This Park: This park is a

product of ice and wind. At the end of the last ice age, winds from the main trench of the Fraser River and from, what is now, Kinbasket Lake, deposited vast quantities of sand in the Jackman Flats area. Rare plant communities and shifting sand dune structures now exist in this rather small park. An extremely dry area, where drought conditions generally exist through the summer season, Jackman Flats is vulnerable to excessive recreation use. Hiking is permitted on existing trails only.

Excellent opportunities exist for bird watching and plant identification. Park size: 615 ha How To Get There: Jackman Flats Provincial park is located 10 km north of Valemount, on Highway 5, minutes from Mount Robson Provincial Park.

Mount Terry Fox PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Hiking, Pets on Leash Facilities: Campfires, Picnic Areas, Flush Toilets

About This Park: Mount Terry

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Fox Provincial Park is a day-use only park. There is no road access. A Highway 16 viewpoint 7 km west of Mt. Robson west gate provides a view of the mountain. This park is historically significant as a park dedicated to Terry Fox for his outstanding achievements.

Park size: 1930 ha How To Get There: Located adjacent to the west boundary of Mt. Robson Provincial Park, 3 hours from Prince George.

Communities close by include Tete Jaune Cache, Valemount and McBride.

Pyramid Creek Falls PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Hunting,

Pets on Leash Facilities: None

About This Park: A spectacular waterfall from a hanging valley is protected by this park. This picturesque waterfall is visible from Hwy #5. It is not accessible by vehicle. There are no developed trails at this park.

Park size: 13 ha How To Get There: 30 km north of the community of Blue River.

Pyramid Creek Falls is visible from Hwy #5 and from Canadian National Railway. Access to the falls is limited as the park is on the east side of the North Thompson River. The closest communities to this park are Clearwater, Vavenby, McBride and Kamloops.

prince george east >>

Mount Robson

PROVINCIAL PARK Activities: Canoeing, Caving,

Climbing, Cycling, Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Pets on Leash, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing Facilities: Boat Launch, Campfires, Drinking Water, Group Camping, Picnic Areas, Pit and Flush Toilets, Playground, SaniStation/Dump, Showers, Vehicle Accessible Camping, Walk-In/ Wilderness Camping, Wheelchair Access About This Park: Mount Robson Provincial Park, the second oldest park in British Columbia’s park system, is truly one of the world’s crown jewels.

The mountain for which the park is named guards the park’s western entrance. At 3,954 meters, Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, towers over the lesser surrounding peaks; winter or summer, this is one of the finest views in the Rocky Mountains. With Alberta’s Jasper National Park as its east-

erly neighbour, Mount Robson Provincial Park comprises a portion of one of the world’s largest blocks of protected areas. Mount Robson provides everything from developed, vehicle-accessible camping to remote valleys that seldom see a human footprint. Mount Robson Provincial Park also protects the headwaters of the Fraser River.

Flora and fauna are typical of the western slope of the Rocky Mountains, North Continental Range. One is able, on some trails, to travel between three different vegetation zones during a day hike. Over 182 species of birds have been documented in the park. All wildlife indigenous in the Rocky Mountain can be found here. Mule and Whitetail Deer, Moose, Elk and Black Bear call the lower elevation home while Grizzly Bear, Caribou, Mountain Goat and Mountain Sheep inhabit the higher elevations.

From mountain goats on the many cliffs and rockslides to moose in Moose Marsh, the patient observer will be suitably

Known as the back side of Robson, the nort h side offers a less seen but more awe inspiring view of the Rock ies highest peak.

– orlando PhilliPS

rewarded. Park size: 224,866 ha How To Get There: The park is located in east, central British Columbia, just west of the British Columbia/Alberta border and Jasper National Park.

Approximately 4 hours north of

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Kamloops, BC on Highway 5; 3 1/2 hours east of Prince George, BC on Highway 16; and 5 hours west of Edmonton, Alberta on Highway 16. The closest communities to this park are Valemount, Tete Jaune Cache and McBride.

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