Dunalter Lake Nature Walk

1.60 km
55m gain
1.00 hours
Level 2.0/5
2.0/5
Difficulty
Easy
1.60
Distance
kilometres
55
Elevation Gain
metres
1.00
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

Dunalter Lake Nature Walk is a short, easy 1.6km out-and-back trail near Houston leading to a quiet forest lake in the Barrett Hat / Vallee Lake Recreation Area. The trail is suitable for all skill levels and ages, and is used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and mountain biking. The route passes through boreal forest and opens up at the lake with peaceful views. Part of the broader Barrett Hat / Vallee Lake trail network developed and maintained by the Morice Outdoor Recreation Society (MORS), one of the most popular recreation areas near Houston. Dogs welcome. Open year-round. Located on the unceded traditional territory of the Wet'suwet'en people.

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 the Houston Tourist Information building, drive west on Highway 16 for 14.5km. Turn left (south) onto Barrett Hat Road (not Barrett Station Road) and travel 1.4km to the junction with Parish Road. The Barrett Hat / Vallee Lake trail network begins at the west side of this intersection. Follow the well-signed trail network to reach the Dunalter Lake Nature Walk trailhead. A downloadable trail map is available at houstonhikers.ca.

Parking

 Park at the trailhead at the Barrett Hat Road / Parish Road junction, approximately 14.5km west of Houston on Highway 16. Free parking with no formal facilities at the trailhead. Picnic tables are available elsewhere in the Barrett Hat / Vallee Lake Recreation Area. All services available in Houston.

Safety & Preparation

Trail sections may be overgrown in summer — wear long pants and sturdy footwear. Bears are present in the Houston area; carry bear spray and make noise. Keep dogs under control near the lake. Some sections can be muddy or soft in spring. The trail network is well-signed — download the MORS trail map before your first visit to navigate the area. 

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