Co-Op Lake Trail

9.30 km
268m gain
2.50 hours
Level 3.0/5
3.0/5
Difficulty
Moderate
9.30
Distance
kilometres
268
Elevation Gain
metres
2.50
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

Co-Op Lake Trail is a moderate 5.7-mile (9.2km) out-and-back trail in the Burns Lake area, with 879ft (268m) of elevation gain taking approximately 2.5–3 hours. The route travels through boreal forest past lakes, creeks, and marshes in the quiet backcountry east of Burns Lake, eventually reaching Co-Op Lake — a small, peaceful backcountry lake at 886m (2,907ft) elevation with a free BC Forest Service Recreation Site featuring 4 campsites, tables, toilets, fishing, and a boat launch. The trail provides a great combination of forest hiking and lake scenery, making it an excellent option for an overnight trip or a longer day hike. Suitable for hiking and snowshoeing. Dogs welcome. Located on the traditional territory of the Lake Babine Nation and Ts'il Kaz Koh (Burns Lake Band).

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

No photos available yet

Community

Photos shared by fellow hikers — moderated before going live.

Community Photos

of

Have you been here?

Share a photo with the community. All submissions are reviewed before going live.

Getting There

Directions

 From Burns Lake, head east on Highway 16 and follow directions toward the Co-Op Lake FSR access road. The Co-Op Lake Recreation Site is located northeast of Burns Lake — consult a downloaded GPX track or the Burns Lake Visitor Centre for precise access road details, as the turnoff from the highway is not prominently signed. Stop by the Burns Lake Visitor Centre on Highway 16 or call 250-692-5077 for current road and trail conditions.

Parking

Informal parking is available at the trailhead area. The Co-Op Lake BC Forest Service Recreation Site at the trail's end has 4 free campsites with tables, toilets, fishing access, and a boat launch — an excellent base for overnight visits. No day-use fees. All services available in Burns Lake.

Safety & Preparation

Trail signage is minimal carry a downloaded GPX track. Some sections may be overgrown or have downed trees after storms. Bears (black bear and grizzly) are present throughout the Burns Lake area carry bear spray and make noise. The access road may be soft and rough in wet conditions or early season; check conditions before driving. Cell service is unreliable in this area inform someone of your plans before heading out. Best visited June through October.

GPX downloaded