Burns Lake Provincial Park Loop

Burns Lake, British Columbia, Canada

9.00 km
292m gain
3.00 hours
Level 3.0/5
3.0/5
Difficulty
Moderate
9.00
Distance
kilometres
292
Elevation Gain
metres
3.00
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

Burns Lake Provincial Park Loop is a peaceful wooded trail offering a moderately challenging hike through the natural forest landscape south of Burns Lake. The long loop follows generally gentle terrain and features three rustic gazebos along the route, making it suitable for hikers looking for a quiet nature experience away from the town. Sections may become overgrown during summer, and occasional fallen trees may be encountered.

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:

  1. Travel south on Highway 35.
  2. Continue past the Omineca Ski Club.
  3. Look for the Riddler Forest Service Road turnoff.
  4. Turn onto Riddler Forest Service Road.
  5. Follow the forest service road toward the trail access.

The Village specifically warns that the trailhead is not clearly labeled from the main road, so visitors should pay close attention to the Riddler Forest Service Road access point.

Parking

Limited rustic parking is available near the trail access along the forest service road. Burns Lake Provincial Park currently has no developed facilities or user fees. Park only where vehicles will not obstruct the forest service road or other traffic.

Safety & Preparation

⚠️ Poor trail signage

The Village notes that the trailhead is not clearly labeled from the main road. A GPS/map is strongly recommended.

⚠️ Overgrown vegetation

During summer, sections may become overgrown and hikers may become wet from brushing against vegetation, particularly following rain.

⚠️ Blowdown

Occasional fallen trees may be encountered. The Village indicates these generally should not cause significant problems, but conditions can change.

⚠️ Drinking water

The small lake surrounded by the trail is not readily accessible. If using the stream near the second gazebo as a water source, the water should be filtered/treated before drinking.

⚠️ Black bears

Black bears are common in the Burns Lake region. The Village recommends staying alert, making noise while hiking, and carrying bear spray.

⚠️ Remote environment

This is considerably more rustic than the short community trails around Burns Lake. Carry sufficient water, food, first-aid supplies, navigation equipment, and appropriate clothing.

⚠️ Weather

Rain can make vegetation and trail surfaces wet, while spring snowmelt and fall/winter conditions can create muddy, icy, or snowy sections.

⚠️ Overnight shelters

The three gazebos provide rustic overnight opportunities, but they should not be treated as serviced cabins. The Village notes that two gazebos have nearby outhouses, but these are not maintained.

Seasonal Conditions

🌱

Spring

Not Recommended
Trail Conditions

Wet/muddy; possible remaining snow

Notes

Wet/muddy; possible remaining snow

Highlights

Wildlife, spring forest

Accessibility

Mud/snow may limit access

☀️

Summer

Recommended
Trail Conditions

Generally accessible; possible overgrowth

Notes

Bring water and prepare for wet vegetation

Highlights

Forest scenery, gazebos, wildlife

Accessibility

Best overall access

🍂

Fall

Recommended
Trail Conditions

Damp/slippery; possible early snow

Notes

Shorter daylight and cooler temperatures

Highlights

Fall colours, wildlife

Accessibility

Wet/snowy conditions may affect access

❄️

Winter

Not Recommended
Trail Conditions

Snow and ice

Notes

Best for experienced winter users

Highlights

Winter forest scenery

Accessibility

Significant snow/ice limitations

GPX downloaded