Norse Creek Trail

Burns Lake, British Columbia, Canada

2.90 km
79m gain
1.00 hours
Level 3.0/5
3.0/5
Difficulty
Moderate
2.90
Distance
kilometres
79
Elevation Gain
metres
1.00
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

Norse Creek Trail (also spelled Nourse Creek Trail) is a scenic and moderately easy hike in the Burns Lake area, offering waterfalls, peaceful forest, unique hoodoos, swimming holes, and beautiful views of François Lake.


The trail follows Nourse (Allin) Creek upstream through a peaceful pine forest, winding along a ridge above the roaring creek. The first waterfall can be reached approximately 1.5 km from the trailhead, while the larger and more impressive Nourse Creek Falls is located about 3.4 km along the route.


Along the way, hikers can enjoy scenic hoodoos, smaller cascades, and, during warm weather, refreshing swimming holes that make this a favourite summer destination. As the trail gradually climbs into the surrounding hills, sweeping views open up to the south over François Lake.


The route features a generally gentle grade with only a few short, steeper sections, making it suitable for most hikers. Whether you're looking for a short walk to the first falls or a longer adventure to explore the upper sections of the creek, Norse Creek Trail offers a rewarding experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the Burns Lake region.

The trail is located on the traditional territory of the Nadleh Whut'en Band and Stellat'en First Nation.

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 Burns Lake, drive south on Highway 35 approximately 32 minutes. Pass the Francois Lake Ferry terminal and continue along the north shore of Francois Lake for approximately 15km to the Henkel Forest Service Road. Turn right onto Henkel FSR and drive approximately 1.5km to the trail parking lot. The trailhead begins from the parking area.

Parking

A small parking lot is located at the trailhead on Henkel FSR, approximately 1.5km from Highway 35. Free, no formal facilities beyond the trailhead. All services available in Burns Lake, approximately 32 minutes away.

Safety & Preparation

The trail runs alongside an active creek — supervise children carefully near the water, especially during spring snowmelt when water levels are high and currents are strong. The swimming holes are popular in summer but always assess water conditions before entering — cold water shock is a risk even in warm weather. Trail may be slippery near the creek banks after rain. Bears are present in this area — carry bear spray and make noise. Best visited May through October; the waterfalls are most impressive during spring snowmelt.

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