Fletcher Gardiner

Fletcher Gardiner

11.80 km
413m gain
5.00 hours
Level 5.0/5
5.0/5
Difficulty
Very Hard
11.80
Distance
kilometres
413
Elevation Gain
metres
5.00
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

The Fletcher–Gardiner Trail is a remote backcountry route that leads hikers through dense forest, creek valleys, and gradually rising terrain toward the scenic alpine setting of Reiseter Lake. The trail is long, rugged in sections, and best suited for experienced hikers or overnight backpackers seeking a true wilderness experience.


As you move deeper along the route, the forest opens up into subalpine zones before reaching the pristine lake area surrounded by mountain ridges. This trail lies within Babine Mountains Provincial Park, part of the beautiful BC Parks system protecting some of the province's most spectacular alpine landscapes. Conditions in the backcountry can change quickly, so before you head out, visit BC Parks directly for the latest updates on trail conditions, closures, wildlife activity, and conservation efforts. You can follow their real-time updates here: https://bcparks.ca/babine-mountains-park/

Leave No Trace

Please follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all waste, stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors.

Interactive Trail Map

Elevation Profile

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Getting There

Directions

The Fletcher–Gardiner Trail (to Reiseter Lake) is accessed from the Babine Mountains Provincial Park area near Smithers, BC. From downtown Smithers, drive east along Highway 16, cross the Bulkley River Bridge, and turn left onto Old Babine Lake Road. Continue north, following signs toward Babine Mountains Provincial Park and Driftwood Canyon, and stay on the road for several kilometers until reaching the main park access area. The trailhead for Fletcher–Gardiner / Reiseter Lake typically branches off from this access zone or nearby forest service roads.


Parking

A designated parking area is available at the Babine Mountains Provincial Park access point. The parking lot is generally gravel and suitable for standard vehicles during dry conditions, but road surfaces can vary depending on weather. High-clearance vehicles are recommended when conditions are wet or rough. There are no formal amenities such as fuel, food, or restrooms at the trailhead, so visitors should prepare in advance and use services available in Smithers before heading out.

Safety & Preparation

This trail is located in a remote backcountry area with limited or no cell service, and sections of the trail may be poorly marked, overgrown, or muddy. The region is active bear habitat, including both black bears and grizzly bears, so hikers should carry bear spray, make noise while traveling, and store food properly. Terrain along the trail can be steep and uneven, with potential hazards such as slippery surfaces after rain, fallen trees, loose rocks, and stream crossings that may become dangerous during high water levels. Weather conditions can change quickly at higher elevations, with colder temperatures, rain, and fog possible even in summer. For safety, hikers are advised not to travel alone, to inform someone of their trip plan and expected return time, to start early in the day, and to bring proper navigation tools, extra food, water, and clothing.

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