Kager Lake, Slug Lake, and Boer Mountain

Burns Lake, British Columbia, Canada

23.20 km
850m gain
8.00 hours
Level 4.0/5
4.0/5
Difficulty
Hard
23.20
Distance
kilometres
850
Elevation Gain
metres
8.00
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

The Kager Lake, Slug Lake, and Boer Mountain Trail is a challenging backcountry route connecting several scenic lakes with the higher elevations of Boer Mountain. The approximately 22.7 km route passes through forested terrain, along Kager and Slug Lakes, and toward pristine alpine lakes and mountain landscapes. Its length, elevation gain, and remote sections make it best suited for experienced hikers and backpackers.

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 primary access is through the Kager Lake Recreation Site.

From Burns Lake:

  1. Travel from Burns Lake toward Gowan Road.
  2. Follow Gowan Road toward Boer Mountain Road.
  3. Continue toward the Kager Lake Recreation Site.
  4. The main trailhead is at/near the Kager Lake parking area.

The Kager Lake trail system has a large gravel parking area at the trailhead. Access information also identifies a secondary entrance near the Long Lake side of the system via Tintagel Road.

The trailhead is located approximately 4.5 km east of Burns Lake in straight-line/location data, while the practical driving distance is somewhat greater.

Parking

Parking is available at the Kager Lake Recreation Site in a large gravel parking area near the main trailhead. Camping and basic recreation facilities are also available. Visitors should park in designated areas and avoid blocking access roads or trail entrances.

Safety & Preparation

⚠️ Long and strenuous route

At approximately 22.7 km with 823 m of elevation gain, this is considerably more demanding than the shorter Kager Lake and Porcupine trails. Hikers should be prepared for a long day or overnight trip.

⚠️ Remote backcountry terrain

The route extends well beyond the developed Kager Lake recreation area. Carry appropriate navigation equipment, emergency supplies, food, water, and first-aid equipment.

⚠️ Bear and wildlife awareness

The area is wilderness habitat. Bears, moose, deer, and other wildlife may be encountered. Store food securely, avoid approaching wildlife, and consider carrying bear spray.

⚠️ Weather changes

Weather can change rapidly as the route climbs toward Boer Mountain. Conditions near the summit and alpine lakes can be significantly colder and windier than around Kager Lake.

⚠️ Water

Although the trail passes several lakes and water sources, do not assume natural water is safe to drink. Carry adequate drinking water and treat/filter water from natural sources before consumption.

⚠️ Navigation

The route passes through an extensive interconnected trail network. GPS/navigation equipment is strongly recommended, particularly when continuing beyond the Kager and Slug Lake areas toward Boer Mountain.

⚠️ Mountain biking

Mountain biking is permitted on portions of the Boer Mountain trail system, particularly at higher elevations. Hikers should remain alert for cyclists on shared sections.

⚠️ Fire and camping

If camping, follow current restrictions and fire regulations. Wildfire conditions can result in temporary closures or restrictions; the Kager Lake/Boer Mountain area has previously been subject to wildfire-related evacuation orders.

Seasonal Conditions

☀️

Summer

Recommended
Trail Conditions

Generally the most favorable conditions, with mostly accessible trails and snow-free higher elevations.

Notes

Best time for completing the entire route. Carry sufficient food and water and be prepared for changing mountain weather.

Highlights

Kager Lake, Slug Lake, Boer Mountain, alpine lakes, mountain views, wildflowers, camping, wildlife viewing.

Accessibility

Best overall accessibility. Most of the route should be accessible, although heavy rain can temporarily affect trail conditions.

🍂

Fall

Not Recommended
Trail Conditions

Cooler temperatures, wet or slippery surfaces, fallen leaves, and possible early snow at higher elevations.

Notes

Start early because daylight hours are shorter. Bring warm layers and check mountain weather before departure.

Highlights

Fall colours, peaceful forest scenery, cooler hiking temperatures, wildlife viewing, fewer visitors.

Accessibility

Access becomes increasingly limited later in the season as snow begins accumulating on Boer Mountain.

❄️

Winter

Not Recommended
Trail Conditions

Full winter snowpack; trail ungroomed and untracked. Significant avalanche terrain present on upper slopes.

Notes

Only attempt with appropriate winter equipment, navigation skills, and experience in remote winter terrain. The full route is not recommended for ordinary winter hiking.

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