Hiking in Murtle Lake: trails, map and practical info

Description

Murtle Lake stands as one of British Columbia's most remarkable wilderness destinations, a lava-dammed lake nestled in the heart of Wells Gray Provincial Park. What makes this place truly special isn't just its stunning natural beauty, but its unique status as the largest lake in North America where only human-powered watercraft are permitted—no motorboats or aircraft disturb the pristine silence.

The lake's distinctive reversed 'L' shape creates two distinct arms, each offering different experiences for visitors. The North Arm extends like a fjord deep into the Cariboo Mountains, creating dramatic scenery as forested hills and rocky cliffs rise directly from the water's edge. Here, the Wavy Range towers above the east shore, providing a spectacular mountain backdrop. The West Arm draws most visitors with its extensive sandy beaches, numerous sheltered coves, and three islands that beckon exploration by canoe or kayak.

Central Mountain occupies the dramatic bend between these two arms, while to the south, the Stevens Lakes valley stretches toward Battle Mountain, adding to the area's impressive topographical diversity. This varied landscape means paddlers and hikers can experience everything from intimate coves perfect for a quiet lunch to expansive mountain vistas that showcase the raw beauty of the Cariboo Mountains.

The Trail Experience

The approach to Murtle Lake involves a straightforward 4.8-kilometer trail from the parking area—an easy walk that serves as a gentle introduction to the wilderness ahead. With only 50 meters of elevation gain over the entire distance, this trail remains accessible for families and those carrying canoes or kayaks to the water. Most hikers complete the journey in about 30 minutes, though you might want to allow more time to soak in the forest atmosphere.

The path winds through typical interior BC forest, giving you a taste of the ecosystem you'll be exploring once you reach the lake. Dense stands of spruce and fir create a cathedral-like canopy overhead, while the forest floor reveals the intricate details of this mountain ecosystem. The trail's gentle grade makes it an ideal warm-up for the paddling adventures that await at the lake.

Don't let the trail's ease fool you into thinking this is a casual day-trip destination. While the walk itself is simple, Murtle Lake opens up into serious wilderness territory where proper preparation becomes essential, especially if you plan to paddle the lake's full length or explore its more remote sections.

What to Expect on the Water

The moment you launch your canoe or kayak, you'll understand why Murtle Lake earned such stringent protection. The silence is profound—no engine noise breaks the natural soundscape of lapping water, bird calls, and wind in the trees. The lake's clear water invites swimming on warm days, though the mountain-fed temperatures remain refreshing even in summer.

The West Arm's sandy beaches provide excellent spots for breaks and overnight camping, while the numerous coves offer shelter from wind and intimate settings for wildlife watching. The three islands scattered throughout this section make for interesting exploration, each offering different perspectives on the surrounding mountains and shoreline.

Paddling into the North Arm feels like entering a different world entirely. The fjord-like character creates more dramatic scenery as the waterway narrows and the mountains close in. This section appeals to those seeking a more wilderness-focused experience, with fewer beaches but more impressive geological features and mountain views.

The Murtle River Connection

Understanding Murtle Lake's hydrology adds depth to your visit. The Murtle River feeds the lake after flowing 18 kilometers southwest from a large unnamed glacier high in the Cariboo Mountains at 2,300 meters elevation. After filling the lake, the river continues its journey, draining the lake and flowing another 36 kilometers southwest to join the Clearwater River. This glacier-fed system helps maintain the lake's pristine water quality and contributes to its distinctive character.

The lava dam that created this lake speaks to the volcanic history of Wells Gray Provincial Park, a region known for its waterfalls, volcanic features, and diverse geology. This geological foundation creates the dramatic landscapes that make paddling here feel like traveling through a natural cathedral.

Wildlife and Fishing

The clear, cold water supports excellent fishing opportunities, though you'll need to check current regulations and licensing requirements. The lake's protected status and limited human impact have helped maintain healthy fish populations and pristine aquatic habitat.

Wildlife viewing opportunities abound both on the water and along the shoreline. The surrounding forested hills and rocky cliffs provide habitat for a variety of species typical of the interior mountains. Early morning and evening paddles often provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities when animals come to the water's edge. Keep your eyes open for loons, whose haunting calls echo across the water, and watch for deer and other wildlife coming to drink at the shoreline.

Conservation and Your Responsibility

In 1968, approximately 40% of Wells Gray Park—some 525,680 acres—was designated as the Murtle Lake Nature Conservancy, providing this area with exceptional protection from development. The 1970 ban on motorboats and aircraft wasn't arbitrary; it recognized that some places deserve to remain as close to their natural state as possible.

This protection means you're experiencing Murtle Lake much as it has existed for centuries. The absence of motor noise allows you to hear the subtle sounds of the wilderness—the call of loons, the splash of fish jumping, the rustle of wind through trees. It's a reminder of what much of North America's wilderness sounded like before mechanized recreation became common.

The conservation status also means visitors have responsibilities. Leave No Trace principles aren't just suggestions here—they're essential for maintaining the pristine character that makes Murtle Lake special. Pack out all waste, camp only in designated areas, and respect the wildlife that calls this protected area home. Whether you're planning a day paddle to explore the West Arm's beaches and islands or a multi-day expedition into the North Arm's more remote reaches, Murtle Lake offers a rare opportunity to experience true wilderness silence in one of the province's most spectacular settings.