Kathlyn Lake Paddle

4.20 km
161m gain
1.00 hours
Level 2.0/5
2.0/5
Difficulty
Easy
4.20
Distance
kilometres
161
Elevation Gain
metres
1.00
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

Enjoy a relaxing adventure on this 4.2 km loop trail near Smithers, British Columbia. Generally considered an easy route, the trail is perfect for visitors looking to experience the area's natural beauty at a comfortable pace. With its gentle terrain and peaceful surroundings, it is suitable for hikers, walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.


The loop travels through a mix of riverside scenery, forested sections, and open natural areas, providing a pleasant setting for a leisurely walk or a quiet escape into nature. Along the way, visitors may encounter native birds, local wildlife, and scenic viewpoints that showcase the beauty of the surrounding landscape.


This trail is especially popular for paddle sports, with convenient access to nearby waterways that make it an excellent destination for combining a short hike with canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Despite its popularity, the area remains peaceful during quieter times of the day, allowing visitors to enjoy a more tranquil experience.

Whether you're looking for a scenic walk, a family-friendly outing, or a relaxing stop before or after spending time on the water, this easy loop offers an enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty of the Smithers area.

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

From downtown Smithers, head north on Highway 16. Kathlyn Lake is located just north of town — watch for the signed access road on the west (left) side of Highway 16. Turn onto the short access road which leads directly to the small day use area and boat launch. The drive from central Smithers takes approximately 5 minutes.

Parking

A small free parking area is located at the day use site beside the lake. Space is limited and the lake can get busy on warm summer weekends — arrive early to secure a spot. No overnight camping at the lake day use area; the nearest camping is at a small BC Forest Service site on Glacier Gulch Road, just minutes away at the base of Hudson Bay Mountain. All other services and accommodations are available in Smithers.

Safety & Preparation

Always wear a properly fitted PFD (life jacket) — it is required by Canadian law for all paddlers. The lake is non-motorized, keeping conditions calm, but wind can pick up quickly in the Bulkley Valley and create choppy water — stay close to shore if conditions deteriorate. The lake water is cold year-round; cold water shock is a serious risk if you capsize. Supervise children at all times near the water. Bears are present in the Smithers area — do not leave food unattended at the launch area. If renting gear, contact Aquabatics (aquabatics.ca) for rental availability and lake conditions before visiting.

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