The Drowned Forest

0.20 km
2m gain
0.50 hours
Level 2.0/5
2.0/5
Difficulty
Easy
0.20
Distance
kilometres
2
Elevation Gain
metres
0.50
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

The Drowned Forest is one of the most fascinating features within Anhluut’ukwsim Lax̱mihl Angwinga’asanskwhl Nisg̱a’a Park (Nisg̱a’a Memorial Lava Bed Park) in the Nass Valley of northwestern British Columbia. The site tells the story of the volcanic eruption that sent lava down the Tseax River valley roughly 250 years ago, dramatically reshaping the landscape and creating Lava Lake.

The forest was flooded when the lava flow dammed the Nass River, creating the lake and leaving trees standing partially submerged in the water. Today, the remains of the drowned trees create an unusual and striking landscape, offering visitors a glimpse into the powerful geological forces that shaped the Nass Valley.

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 Terrace, travel north on Highway 113 (Nisg̱a’a Highway) toward the Nass Valley. The park is approximately 100 km north of Terrace and is accessed directly from Highway 113.

Continue along the highway through the Nisg̱a’a Memorial Lava Bed Park and follow signs for the designated interpretive stops and Lava Lake area. The Drowned Forest is accessed from the park's road network near Lava Lake. Follow posted signs and park information to the appropriate roadside pullout or viewing area.

Because the lava beds contain fragile geological and ecological features, remain on designated routes and follow any access restrictions in place.

Parking

Parking and roadside pullouts are available at designated areas within the park near the interpretive stops and Lava Lake. Visitors should use only established parking areas and avoid stopping in active travel lanes or blocking access roads.

The park provides day-use facilities at Lava Lake, including picnic areas, while additional facilities are available at the visitor centre and other designated locations.

Safety & Preparation

  • Stay on designated trails: The lava landscape is extremely fragile. Even a single footprint can damage slow-growing vegetation and lichens, so do not walk off established trails.
  • Unstable lava rock: Lava can be sharp, loose, and unstable. Some surfaces may also be thin, particularly around lake and stream edges.
  • Water safety: Stay well back from the shoreline and submerged trees. Water depths and conditions can be difficult to judge.
  • Do not climb on the trees: The remaining tree trunks and volcanic formations are part of the site's natural history and should be left undisturbed.
  • Wildlife: Bears, moose, mountain goats, marmots, and other wildlife inhabit the surrounding area. Maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
  • Weather: Weather can change quickly in the Nass Valley. Bring suitable footwear, water, and rain protection.
  • Limited services: This is a remote area, so carry the supplies you need for your visit.
  • Road awareness: Use caution when entering and leaving roadside pullouts along Highway 113.
  • Respect Nisg̱a’a Lands: The lava beds are both a significant natural landscape and a Nisg̱a’a memorial landscape. Visitors should travel respectfully and follow local guidance.
  • Leave no trace: Do not remove rocks, plants, wood, or other natural materials, and pack out all garbage.
  • Check conditions before travelling: Park access and individual stops can be affected by seasonal road conditions or temporary closures. 
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