Rainmaker Trail

3.70 km
66m gain
1.00 hours
Level 2.0/5
2.0/5
Difficulty
Easy
3.70
Distance
kilometres
66
Elevation Gain
metres
1.00
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

Rainmaker Trail is a peaceful loop around Ross Lake near Hazelton, British Columbia, offering a relaxing outdoor experience through a combination of forest trail and quiet road sections. Located on the unceded traditional territory of the Gitxsan Nation and managed by BC Parks, the trail provides visitors with an opportunity to appreciate both the region's natural beauty and its cultural significance.


As you make your way around the lake, you'll travel through lush forests where portions of the trail may be slightly overgrown and damp, especially after rainfall. While insects can be common during the warmer months, the occasional openings in the forest reward hikers with beautiful views of Ross Lake and the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for local wildlife—you may even spot frogs and other wetland species along the way.


Rainmaker Trail is especially enjoyable for those who appreciate quiet nature walks and don't mind a bit of mud or moisture underfoot. With sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing, it's a wonderful destination in any season, particularly on misty or rainy days when the forest feels at its most vibrant and alive.

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

No photos available yet

Community

Photos shared by fellow hikers — moderated before going live.

Community Photos

of

Have you been here?

Share a photo with the community. All submissions are reviewed before going live.

Getting There

Directions

 From New Hazelton or Hazelton, drive east on Highway 16 to the Ross Lake Provincial Park turnoff. The turnoff onto Ross Lake Road is 3.3km east of the Hazelton Visitor Centre — watch for the signed provincial park entrance. Follow Ross Lake Road for 1.5km until it ends at the parking lot. The Rainmaker Trail begins from the parking area and can be walked in either direction.

Parking

 A formal BC Parks parking lot is located at the end of Ross Lake Road, 1.5km from Highway 16. Free day-use parking. The park has a picnic area, beach, swimming area, and boat launch (electric motors only). Flush or pit toilets may be available at the park — check bcparks.ca/ross-lake-park for current facility status. No overnight camping at the day-use area.

Safety & Preparation

Bugs (mosquitoes and blackflies) can be severe along the lake edge in summer — carry insect repellent. Some sections of the trail are slightly overgrown; wear long pants in summer. Appropriate waterproof footwear is recommended as wet sections exist. In spring, toad migration occurs at Ross Lake — toads move in large numbers across the road and trail during breeding season, so watch your step and drive slowly on Ross Lake Road at this time of year. In winter, check ice thickness before venturing onto the lake for skating. E-bikes are not permitted on the trail — bikes must remain on park roads. Dogs must be on leash at all times in the provincial park. Bears are present in the Hazelton area — carry bear spray.

GPX downloaded