Guyishton Lake Trail

Burns Lake, British Columbia, Canada

8.20 km
301m gain
3.00 hours
Level 3.0/5
3.0/5
Difficulty
Moderate
8.20
Distance
kilometres
301
Elevation Gain
metres
3.00
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

Guyishton Lake Trail is a moderate forest trail leading to the secluded Guyishton Lake south of Burns Lake. The route passes through mixed forests and meadows of aspen, spruce, and thimbleberry before reaching the lake and its rustic recreation site. The lightly used trail can become overgrown and difficult to follow, making it best suited for hikers prepared for a more rugged and remote experience.

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 most consistently reported access route is:

  1. From Burns Lake, travel south on Highway 35.
  2. Continue approximately 9 km south of Burns Lake.
  3. Turn right onto Guyishton Lake Forest Service Road / Mackenzie Road.
  4. Follow the forest service road approximately 3.5–4 km toward Guyishton Lake.
  5. Continue toward the Guyishton Lake Recreation Site/Trail and trail access.

A provincial highway landmark inventory places the Guyishton Lake FSR turnoff at approximately Highway 35 kilometre 9.45.

Important: This is a forest service road, so driving conditions can change significantly depending on weather, logging activity, snow, and maintenance. Visitors should check current road conditions before traveling.

Parking

Rustic parking is available near the Guyishton Lake Recreation Site and trail access. The site has limited developed facilities, including a table, primitive toilet, and camping area. Visitors should park in designated areas and be prepared for forest-road access and changing road conditions.

Safety & Preparation

⚠️ Overgrown and difficult-to-follow sections

This is the most important trail-specific warning. Current trail information describes the route as lightly used, somewhat overgrown, and sometimes difficult to follow. Orange squares on trees are reported as trail markers in some sections.

⚠️ Remote trail

This is a relatively secluded recreation area rather than a highly developed municipal trail. Carry navigation equipment, water, food, first-aid supplies, and appropriate emergency gear.

⚠️ Forest service road

The access road is unpaved and conditions can change quickly. Drive cautiously and be aware of possible industrial/forestry traffic.

⚠️ Wildlife

The trail passes through a forested area where wildlife may be encountered. Visitors should maintain a safe distance from animals and follow appropriate wildlife and bear-safety practices.

⚠️ Weather

Rain can quickly make both the access road and trail muddy. Snow and ice can make the route considerably more difficult later in the year.

⚠️ Fishing and lake access

The lake is a fishing destination, but the boat launch is described as rough.

⚠️ Winter access

Do not assume that the road is accessible by ordinary vehicles during winter. Local winter-fishing reports indicate that access may depend on whether the road has been plowed, and snowmobiles are commonly used. 

Seasonal Conditions

☀️

Summer

Recommended
Trail Conditions

Generally the most suitable season for hiking and fishing, although vegetation can become dense and portions of the trail may be overgrown.

Notes

Bring insect repellent, plenty of water, and navigation equipment. Because the trail can be difficult to follow in places, hikers should avoid relying solely on visible trail markers.

Highlights

Hiking, Rainbow trout fishing, Forest and meadow scenery, Wildlife viewing

Accessibility

Summer provides the best overall access, although the forest service road and trail remain relatively rustic.

🍂

Fall

Recommended
Trail Conditions

Cooler temperatures, fallen leaves, rain, and potentially slippery ground can make hiking more challenging. Vegetation may continue to obscure sections of the trail.

Notes

Fall can be a particularly attractive period for fishing and wildlife observation. Plan around shorter daylight hours.

Highlights

Fall colours, Fishing, Wildlife viewing, Quiet trail conditions, Photography

Accessibility

Rain and early snowfall may affect both the access road and trail. Later in fall, freezing temperatures may create icy sections.

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