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Visitor Guide - Burns Lake

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B R I T I S H C O L U M B I A , C A N A D A<br />

H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T


“The Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is a diverse<br />

community where residents enjoy a high<br />

quality of life, supported by economic<br />

and environmental sustainability and<br />

a vibrant community spirit.”<br />

phone: (250) 692-7587 fax: (250) 692-3059<br />

15-3rd Ave, Box 570, <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> BC V0J 1E0 • Office Hours: 8am – 4pm Monday – Friday<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre<br />

Your first point of call in <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> should be the <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre, centrally<br />

located in the village, right on Highway 16. With plenty of parking available,<br />

stopping in is easy. The centre is open year round and offers extended hours<br />

during the peak tourist season. The friendly, knowledgeable staff will be<br />

able to answer your questions and advise you about the best things to see<br />

and do in the area. So stop in and say “Hi”, the coffee is always on!<br />

Box 339<br />

540 Hwy. 16 West<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>, BC<br />

V0J 1E0<br />

Phone: (250) 692-3773 Fax: 250 692-3701<br />

Email: vc@burnslakechamber.com<br />

www.burnslakechamber.com


Table of Contents<br />

O F F I C I A L V I S I T O R G U I D E<br />

2 Message from the Mayor<br />

3 Message from the Regional District of Bulkley Nechako<br />

4 Introduction to <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> & the <strong>Lake</strong>s District<br />

6 Trails & Touring<br />

8 The Southside<br />

10 The Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Loop<br />

12 RV Sites, Resorts & Campsites<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> & District<br />

Chamber of Commerce<br />

Box 339<br />

540 Hwy. 16 West<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>, BC<br />

V0J 1E0<br />

Phone: (250) 692-3773 Fax: 250 692-3701<br />

Email: shelley@burnslakechamber.com<br />

www.burnslakechamber.com<br />

14 Hotels<br />

15 Ranches, B&Bs, Home Rentals & Restaurants<br />

16 Village Walking Tour<br />

17 First Nations Carvings<br />

18 Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Map<br />

19 Distance Chart<br />

20 History of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> & the <strong>Lake</strong>s District Area<br />

22 Four Seasons of Fun & Adventure<br />

24 Mountain Biking<br />

25 Recreation Site & Camping at Kager <strong>Lake</strong><br />

26 Annual Cold Smoke Drag Races<br />

27 Skiing Cross-Country<br />

28 Salmon Fishing<br />

30 Fishing & Fly-in Fishing<br />

32 Tweedsmuir Provincial Park<br />

33 Wildlife Viewing<br />

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:<br />

Project Coordination:<br />

Shelley Wall: <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> & District<br />

Chamber of Commerce<br />

Research:<br />

Trina Bysouth: <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre<br />

Graphic Design:<br />

Jacqueline Young – Raven Creative<br />

Writing: Rebecca Billard<br />

Printing: LD Printing & Signs<br />

Photography: Duane Conlon, Mike Robertson,<br />

Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>, Jacqueline Young,<br />

Keith Van Tine, Susan Pement, Caroline Galt,<br />

Trina Bysouth, Kaitlin Bysouth, Anne Currie,<br />

Lynda Oke, BC Archives, Royal BC Museum,<br />

Kim Minger, Linda Cutsforth, Kevin Derksen,<br />

Dave Sandsmark, Stephanie Beerling,<br />

Jason Blackwell, <strong>Lake</strong>s District Museum,<br />

Sylvia Thomas, Chris Paulson, Tena Wiebe,<br />

Donna Brochez, Leone McHugh, Sharla Martens,<br />

Garry Blair, Wendy & Brad Thompson, Wren Gilgan,<br />

Nick & Mary Hawes, <strong>Lake</strong>s District Arts Council<br />

The <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Official Tourism <strong>Guide</strong> is a publication of the<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> & District Chamber of Commerce. This document<br />

is available electronically from www.burnslakechamber.com.<br />

Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this<br />

publication, however the publisher accepts no responsibility<br />

for errors or omissions.<br />

© 2013 <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> & District Chamber of Commerce.<br />

This publication must not be reproduced in full or in part<br />

without the express permission of the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> & District<br />

Chamber of Commerce<br />

34 Arts & Culture<br />

35 Community Events<br />

36 <strong>Visitor</strong> Amenities<br />

1


FROM THE MAYOR<br />

Welcome to <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>! Here we offer heavenly surroundings,<br />

enjoy rich traditions, and are blessed with all four of Earth’s<br />

vivid and distinctive seasons. In <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> “It’s Only Natural” and we<br />

would love to share it with you. There are over 3000 miles of serene<br />

lakes that swell with runoff waters in the spring as we prepare for<br />

a rebirth of the countryside. Wildlife, especially moose, bear, and<br />

deer, roam the land freely, while cattle and horses live on ranches<br />

adjacent to town. Imagine summer nights by the campfire roasting<br />

marshmallows while star gazing into the northern skies, or cooking<br />

a fresh catch on an open fire!<br />

While hiking, camping, or mountain biking on one of our many<br />

trails, be sure to take in our picturesque wetlands and wilderness.<br />

Whether a veteran mountain biker, a casual fan, or a family in<br />

search of clean, outdoor fun, you don’t want to miss out on the<br />

renowned Big Pig Summer Mountain Bike Competition and Family<br />

Festival. This is a one of a kind family event that takes place right<br />

here in the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> area! Next, as winter approaches, the days<br />

may be cooling off, but the activities are just beginning! Winter<br />

is when <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> heats up for first class cross-country skiing,<br />

snowmobiling, and snow-shoeing, while downtown establishments<br />

are preparing treats to keep you warm and toasty.<br />

On the economic side, The Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is ”Open for<br />

Business.” We work together with the surrounding <strong>Lake</strong>s District<br />

community to facilitate business expansion, retention, and incentives<br />

to attract investors. The <strong>Lake</strong>s District has many commercial and<br />

industrial properties that are among the lowest priced in the<br />

province. Add to that our transportation advantages, and you<br />

have a workable business plan. The fully functioning Baker Airport<br />

is located just 15 minutes from town and provides air transportation<br />

complete with 5000 foot, lit runway. It accommodates commercial<br />

and recreational charter flights with low landing fees and fuel is<br />

available on-site. <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is conveniently located on Highway<br />

16, which is a major trading route for imports and exports to and<br />

from the shipping port at Prince Rupert. We also boast rail services<br />

that provide bulk shipping capacity to all destinations in North<br />

America. <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> offers all this and more because, in 2013,<br />

we will continue building and perfecting our town. By 2015 we<br />

will feature a new hospital, a multi-use facility, including an enhancement<br />

of the existing ice arena and curling rink, a revitalized<br />

downtown, and the newly rebuilt Babine Forest Products sawmill.<br />

We are surrounded by a wealth of natural resources, the beautiful<br />

outdoors, and fresh mountain air. We have exciting, year-round<br />

recreational activities and festivities. However, we take our greatest<br />

pride in our true sense of community. The people of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

have proven time and time again to be family-oriented, united,<br />

unique, and diverse. Our history is rich. It bonds us and makes us<br />

forward thinking and progressive. <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> was founded in the<br />

1920’s and is home to generations of families who have established<br />

this multifaceted community experience. Since long before<br />

then, and continuing to this day, <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> has been home to a<br />

diverse First Nations Culture. When you visit <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>, be sure<br />

to make acquaintance with Sasquatch, the First Nations wood<br />

carving located at the Rainbow gas station. You’ll also want to<br />

learn more about the First Nations’ house clans: Bear, Beaver,<br />

Frog and Caribou. Wood carvings of these clans will be installed<br />

this summer as a part of the Downtown Revitalization project.<br />

With all this said, I cordially invite you to <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>. Although we<br />

all know that you can’t buy happiness, I will share this secret:<br />

you can visit <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>, and that’s almost the same thing!<br />

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B U R N S L A K E – H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T


The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako<br />

welcomes you to the <strong>Lake</strong>s District!<br />

Whether you are looking to stay in a quaint lakeshore B&B or catch the big one at one of<br />

our many lakes, the <strong>Lake</strong>s District has something for everyone. From scenic hiking trails<br />

to adrenaline pumping downhill mountain biking, the outdoor recreation will amaze you!<br />

Bill Miller, Director<br />

Electoral Area B<br />

(<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Rural)<br />

Referred to as the <strong>Lake</strong>s District, Electoral Area B (<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Rural) and Electoral Area E<br />

(Francois/Ootsa <strong>Lake</strong> Rural) cover an area of 20,000 sq. km of adventure!<br />

Visit one of our businesses ready to serve you. Resorts with full service cabins, artisan<br />

shops, quiet lakeshore B&B’s, and unique restaurants and coffee shops are ready to make<br />

your visit a memorable one.<br />

Steve Freeman, Director<br />

Electoral Area E<br />

(Francois/Ootsa <strong>Lake</strong> Rural)<br />

Each of the seasons has something to offer in the <strong>Lake</strong>s District. From world-class Nordic<br />

skiing at Omineca Ski club to mountain biking on the new trails at Boer Mountain<br />

Recreation site, the <strong>Lake</strong>s District is the place for your adventures.<br />

Come and explore our spectacular area. The <strong>Lake</strong>s District welcomes you.<br />

Spirit Square<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Spirit Square is a great place to hold events,<br />

celebrations, concerts, reunions, weddings and much more!<br />

Book your reservation early and start planning your next<br />

work, family, or community event.<br />

Services offered at Spirit Square:<br />

• Municipal Campground<br />

• Fitness Stations<br />

• Kids Playground<br />

• Skateboard Park<br />

• Tennis Courts<br />

• Public Dock<br />

• Boat Launch<br />

• Picnic Area<br />

• Swimming Beach<br />

• Canoe and Kayak Rentals<br />

• Power hook-ups<br />

• Water<br />

• Performance Stage<br />

• Public Washrooms (7:00am-8:00pm)<br />

Book Spirit Square Today!<br />

phone: (250) 692-7587 email: village@burnslake.ca<br />

Rental forms at: www.burnslake.ca<br />

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3


<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is the “Heart of the <strong>Lake</strong>s District“. Nestled<br />

in central northern British Columbia the village was<br />

originally named ‘Burnt <strong>Lake</strong>’ by the Borland Expedition<br />

that travelled over the Caribou-Cassiar Trail in 1869, due<br />

to a tremendous forest fire that had blackened the region.<br />

European settlement of the area<br />

began around 1911, when a<br />

camp for the Grand Trunk Pacific<br />

Railway was located in the area.<br />

The Village lies near the<br />

geographic centre of B.C.<br />

and is the ideal starting point<br />

for a northern adventure. <strong>Burns</strong><br />

<strong>Lake</strong> is the consummate destination<br />

in any season. The village’s<br />

population is about 3,600, but<br />

serves as a supply centre for<br />

over 10,000 people in the<br />

surrounding Regional District.<br />

Located on Highway 16, the<br />

village is about 220 kilometres<br />

west of Prince George, and offers<br />

amenities that are expected at a larger centre, such as<br />

access to a hospital, schools, post secondary education,<br />

as well as shopping, accommodation and restaurants.<br />

It also offers an arena, curling club, tennis courts, soccer<br />

fields and a public library. A Rod & Gun Club and a<br />

nine-hole golf course are also located in the area.<br />

On <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>’s doorstep, there is access to 5,000 kilometres<br />

of lakes and streams. Summer attractions include a<br />

waterfront playground and park, fishing and copious<br />

hiking trails. Unsurpassed wilderness fishing or hunting<br />

experiences await you in Tweedsmuir Park, best enjoyed<br />

with knowledgeable local guides. <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is the<br />

‘Gateway to Tweedsmuir Provincial Park’, which at almost<br />

one million hectares, is the largest provincial park in BC.<br />

This remote wilderness park is accessible only by air or<br />

water and has consequently retained its pristine,<br />

unparalleled beauty.<br />

Fishing resorts and campgrounds are tucked away along<br />

the cool, sparkling shores of Babine, Tchesinkut, Takysie,<br />

Nadina, Ootsa, Francois and Uncha <strong>Lake</strong>s. All offer excellent<br />

opportunities to fish for rainbow trout, char, kokanee,<br />

4<br />

B U R N S L A K E – H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T


ling cod and salmon. Family owned resorts, cozy B&B’s and<br />

well-equipped campgrounds are located along the lakes.<br />

During winter, the area is a paradise for snowmobiling, ice<br />

fishing and world-class cross-country skiing. During spring,<br />

summer or fall stop by the Pinkut Creek Spawning Grounds.<br />

The cliffs across from the fishery are a great vantage point<br />

to view ancient petroglyphs. From May to September, the<br />

abundance of wild flowers is a photographer’s dream.<br />

Be sure to stop in at the <strong>Lake</strong>s District Museum. The building<br />

that houses the museum is an architectural treasure built<br />

in 1919 and it was home to the Ministry of Forests. Behind<br />

its doors you will find treasures. In addition, there is a<br />

nearby artisan centre with local handcraft items, as well<br />

as an art gallery.<br />

Explore Highway 35 south and see the Eagle Creek Agate<br />

and Opal Beds, Nourse Creek Falls and Nadina Fisheries.<br />

Take a free 20-minute ferry ride across Francois <strong>Lake</strong> to<br />

the Southside and find your way to the Skins <strong>Lake</strong> Dam,<br />

fossil beds and Cheslatta Falls.<br />

The John Baker Airport, 15 minutes west of the village,<br />

has a 5,000 foot paved runway and new accommodations.<br />

There are also excellent highway and railway connections.<br />

So come and visit, stay a day or stay a while, and discover<br />

why so many people choose to make <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> their home.<br />

GETTING HERE…<br />

The Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is located on TransCanada Highway<br />

16, also known as the Yellowhead Highway. The village is<br />

1,004 kilometres north of Vancouver, approximately 12 hours<br />

driving time and is 226 kilometres, or 2.5 hours drive, west<br />

of Prince George. From the east, <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is 496 kilometres<br />

or 5.5 hours travelling time from Prince Rupert.<br />

Greyhound bus service makes regular stops right in the<br />

village’s downtown core. West of town the John Baker Airport<br />

serves small planes year round. The airport has 1,524 metres<br />

of paved, lit runway and is capable of accepting larger aircraft<br />

if necessary. There are also new, comfortable accommodations<br />

available at the airport. B.C.’s major airlines serve both Prince<br />

George and Smithers. For more information be sure to stop in<br />

at the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre. Private operators run charter<br />

services in the area and some of the resorts have their own<br />

floatplanes.<br />

VIA Rail serves <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> year round and stops right in the<br />

centre of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>’s downtown core.<br />

Be sure to pick up a map and plenty of information about<br />

the area from the friendly and knowledgeable staff at the<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre.<br />

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5


Trails<br />

Crystal clear lakes, meandering trails and hours of<br />

peace and tranquility await you when you visit<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>. In <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> you have access to nearly<br />

5,000 kilometres of lakes and streams that produce<br />

record-breaking game fish. Pair this with trails of<br />

unspoiled wilderness, home to boundless, ever present<br />

species of wildlife including black bear, moose and deer, and<br />

you have an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise at your feet.<br />

& TOURING<br />

To find out more information<br />

about these and other driving<br />

tours, stop in and see the friendly<br />

staff at the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre.<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>’s effervescent and courteous tourism operators<br />

are ready to offer a friendly smile, invaluable advice and<br />

extend a helping hand whether you are traveling alone<br />

with a kayak, looking for adventure or just wanting a<br />

place to unwind and get away from it all. <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

welcomes you, and we would be delighted to share<br />

our experience and knowledge and offer you tourism<br />

packages to suit your specific needs.<br />

Highway 16 winds its way past unsurpassed scenery<br />

and leads directly through the Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>,<br />

as it did in 1917 when the government surveyor<br />

first laid it out. As the gateway to the vast,<br />

untouched wilderness of Tweedsmuir<br />

Provincial Park, <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> has a unique,<br />

self-guided driving circle that should<br />

not be missed.<br />

6<br />

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B U R N S L A K E – H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T


Local Hiking Trails<br />

The following are just some of the countless trails that<br />

weave their way through the <strong>Lake</strong>s District. Trails range<br />

from short walks, to overnight expeditions, from a<br />

self-guided circle tour, to rewarding rock hounding<br />

expeditions. Whatever trail you choose, you will have<br />

a sample of the <strong>Lake</strong>s District’s vast, breathtaking beauty<br />

at your feet. Most trails can be completed within a few<br />

hours and are suitable for families. If you are looking for<br />

more ‘off the beaten track’ adventure, the area offers<br />

unlimited potential, including remote swimming areas,<br />

waterfalls and the opportunity to have your own opal<br />

adventure hunting down dazzling, rainbow coloured<br />

opals that are synonymous with the area.<br />

Heritage Walking Tour<br />

Features: 5 Heritage sites dating back to the<br />

early 1900’s<br />

Trailhead: Maps available from the<br />

<strong>Visitor</strong> Information Centre<br />

Distance: 5 buildings - 6 blocks<br />

Difficulty: Easy<br />

Eveneshen Nature Trail<br />

Features: Scenic, wildlife viewing<br />

Trailhead: Beside <strong>Visitor</strong>s Information Centre, 6th Avenue<br />

Distance: 3.5 km<br />

Difficulty: Easy<br />

Rod Reid Nature Trail<br />

Features: Bird watching, some wildlife viewing<br />

Trailhead: Top of 9th Avenue<br />

Distance: 2.5 km<br />

Difficulty: Easy<br />

Magee Trail<br />

Features: Connecting three beautiful trails with<br />

viewpoints of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Trailhead: Spin off from the Rod Reid Trail<br />

400 metres up Boer Mountain Trail<br />

Distance: Approx. 4.1 km<br />

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate<br />

Kager <strong>Lake</strong> Trail<br />

Features: Wildlife, viewpoints, boardwalk over wetlands<br />

Trailhead: Boer Mountain Road<br />

Distance: 2.8 km<br />

Difficulty: Easy<br />

Long <strong>Lake</strong> Trail<br />

Features: Wildlife, bird viewing<br />

Trailhead: Start at Kager <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Distance: 6.4 km<br />

Difficulty: Easy<br />

Boer Mountain Trail<br />

Features: Viewpoints and wildlife & vegetation<br />

Trailhead: Top of Boer Mountain<br />

Distance: 13km<br />

Difficulty: Moderately Difficult<br />

Star <strong>Lake</strong> Trail<br />

Features: Viewpoints, wildlife, bridges & boardwalks<br />

Trailhead: Near top of Boer Mountain, descends to the<br />

edge of Star <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Distance: 1.0 km to Star <strong>Lake</strong> - 4.5 km loop around lake<br />

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate<br />

Opal Bed Trail<br />

Features: Viewpoint, agate and opal beds and wildlife<br />

Trailhead: Hwy 35, Eagle Creek Road<br />

Distance: Six trails, 8 km total<br />

Difficulty: Moderately Difficult<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> South Trail<br />

Features: Scenic, cultural & historic connections<br />

Trailhead: Hwy 35<br />

Distance: 8 km<br />

Difficulty: Easy to moderate<br />

Omineca Ski Trails<br />

Features: Wildlife & very scenic<br />

Trailhead: Hwy 35<br />

Distance: 2 - 25 km<br />

Difficulty: All levels<br />

Bear Dens Trail<br />

Features: Wildlife and scenic<br />

Trailhead: Omineca Ski Trails<br />

Distance: 2.4 km<br />

Difficulty: Moderately Difficult<br />

Guyishton <strong>Lake</strong> Trail System<br />

Features: Connecting lake trails,<br />

rustic boat launch & recreation site<br />

Trailhead: Hwy 35<br />

Distance: Approx. 4.1 km<br />

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate<br />

Nourse Creek Falls<br />

Features: It offers ‘hoodoo’ like formations & waterfalls<br />

Trailhead: Hwy 35, Colleymount Road<br />

Distance: 3 – 13km<br />

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate<br />

Nourse/Allin Creek Trail<br />

Features: Scenic, wildlife, hoodoos & waterfalls<br />

Trailhead: Hwy 35, Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Road/Colleymount Road<br />

Distance: 12.8 km<br />

Difficulty: Moderately - Difficult<br />

Nellian <strong>Lake</strong> Trail<br />

Features: Scenic, wildlife, old mill sites and tie hacker camps<br />

Trailhead: Babine <strong>Lake</strong> Road or West Palling Road<br />

Distance: 15 km<br />

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate<br />

Information on the Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Loop (188 km) is<br />

available at the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre or see page 10.<br />

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THE<br />

SOUTHSIDE<br />

Only a Ferry Ride Away!<br />

The Southside is just a short, scenic trip from the Village<br />

of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> travelling along Highway 35 south to<br />

the Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Ferry Landing. From there a 20-minute<br />

ferry ride across the crisp, sparkling waters of Francois<br />

<strong>Lake</strong> will deliver you to Southbank on the Southside.<br />

The Southside is an unspoiled paradise, bordered on the<br />

north by Francois <strong>Lake</strong>, the second<br />

longest natural lake in the<br />

province and, to the south, by<br />

Ootsa <strong>Lake</strong> which forms the<br />

reservoir for Rio Tinto Alcan’s<br />

aluminum power house and<br />

smelter in Kitimat B.C. The<br />

Southside is part of the wider<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s District community and encompasses vast unspoiled<br />

lakes, wide-open spaces of farm and ranch lands and<br />

thick forests that stretch to imposing snow-capped<br />

mountains. Several small communities proudly call the<br />

Southside home, some dating back to the early 1900's.<br />

The area is comprised primarily of ranching, farming<br />

and forestry.<br />

If you are looking for a destination that is largely off<br />

the beaten track, the Southside is unsurpassed. Just far<br />

enough away for the peace and tranquility to unwind<br />

from everyday pressures, but still close enough to the<br />

wide range of services and amenities offered in the<br />

Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>.<br />

There is plenty to see and do. Visit for the day, or set up<br />

camp at the Spillway, maintained by Rio Tinto Alcan as<br />

part of the Nechako Reservoir. Be amazed by the beauty<br />

of the Upper and Lower Cheslatta Falls – a photographer’s<br />

delight. Travel to the Verdun Lookout for the best view of<br />

the Southside, visit the Kenny Dam which dams the mighty<br />

waters of the Nechako Reservoir.<br />

The Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Forester, a free, regularly scheduled<br />

vehicle ferry crosses Francois <strong>Lake</strong> between the north<br />

shore and Southbank for an effortless way to begin<br />

your Southside adventures.<br />

The Southside is the geographical area nestled between<br />

Francois <strong>Lake</strong> and Ootsa <strong>Lake</strong>. It is home to approximately<br />

2,000 people who live on widely spaced farms, ranches,<br />

acreages and reserves throughout the area. Combined, the<br />

communities of Southbank, Uncha, Danskin, Grassy Plains,<br />

Takysie, Cheslatta, Ootsa and Wistaria, shape the beauty<br />

that is the Southside.<br />

Although untouched in its beauty, the Southside provides<br />

a range of services to meet travellers needs. For local farm<br />

fresh produce, there is a farmer’s market, held in the SEDA<br />

Centre every Saturday during the summer months.<br />

8<br />

B U R N S L A K E – H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T


The Southside has long been home to the Nee Tahi Buhn,<br />

Skin Tyee and Cheslatta First Nation peoples. The Cheslatta<br />

Carrier Nation has a long, well documented history in the<br />

area. Today, their<br />

traditional territory<br />

is centered<br />

on Cheslatta<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>. However,<br />

much of their<br />

territory, including<br />

Cheslatta<br />

Village, was lost<br />

due to the flooding of the area for the construction of the<br />

Kenny Dam in 1952.<br />

An end to their long battle to achieve justice over their<br />

forced relocation was forged on January 30, 2012, when<br />

elder and former Cheslatta Carrier Nation Chief Abel<br />

Peters paid Rio Tinto Alcan $6 in cash for the return of<br />

nearly 12,000 acres of land that Rio Tinto Alcan had<br />

acquired as a result of the 1950’s Kemano I project. The<br />

land included old Cheslatta village sites. After 60 years,<br />

the Cheslatta people once again own their homelands<br />

outright. During the ceremony, Abel Peters fired three rifle<br />

shots signaling the ‘Return of the Spirits’. Several hundred<br />

people witnessed two local priests bless the remaining<br />

cemetery and Cheslatta <strong>Lake</strong>. These are the resting places<br />

for over 60 graves that have been washed away since 1952.<br />

Most Cheslatta members now live on a dozen small,<br />

scattered reserves just south of Francois <strong>Lake</strong>. The band<br />

office and other community buildings are located two<br />

kilometres south of the Southbank ferry dock. Today the<br />

Cheslatta operate the Chief Louie Paddle Company and<br />

use reclaimed flood lumber from the depths of Ootsa <strong>Lake</strong><br />

to craft paddles and keepsakes carved by their elders for<br />

local and overseas markets.<br />

When travelling to the Southside, visitors should be aware<br />

that all roads on the Southside eventually change from<br />

pavement to gravel. Forestry roads are radio assisted,<br />

meaning that you should be ready to meet logging trucks<br />

at any time. Driving with due care is a must. The only gas<br />

station on the Southside is located at Takysie <strong>Lake</strong> Resort,<br />

so plan your travels with this in mind.<br />

For more information on the Southside<br />

visit the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre or the<br />

SEDA Centre located east of the ferry landing<br />

at 1246 Uncha <strong>Lake</strong> Road on the Southside<br />

250-694-3219 or visit: www.sedabc.ca<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<br />

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9


FRANCOIS LAKE LOOP<br />

<br />

BB<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

LEGEND<br />

Accommodation<br />

Bed & Breakfast<br />

Campgrounds<br />

Resort<br />

Food<br />

Gas<br />

Point of Interest<br />

Provincial Park<br />

Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Loop<br />

Highways<br />

Other Roads<br />

Streams<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s<br />

Southside Information<br />

<br />

Noralee<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Wistaria<br />

Wistaria<br />

Landing<br />

Tweedsmuir Park<br />

Ootsa-Nad<br />

<br />

ina Road<br />

Ootsa <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Francois <strong>Lake</strong><br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Tatalrose<br />

<strong>Lake</strong><br />

<br />

Skins <strong>Lake</strong> Spillway<br />

Keefe's Land<br />

ing Road<br />

Takysie<br />

<strong>Lake</strong><br />

Eakin Settlement Road<br />

Grassy<br />

Plains<br />

Takysie<br />

<strong>Lake</strong><br />

E ast Ootsa Road<br />

Cheslatta<br />

Village of<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Tchesinkut <strong>Lake</strong><br />

<br />

<br />

Southbank<br />

<br />

Nee Tahi Buhn<br />

Cheslatta Carrier Nation<br />

Grassy Hall <br />

BB<br />

<br />

Danskin<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

<br />

Mollice<br />

<strong>Lake</strong><br />

Cheslatta Road<br />

<br />

Uncha <strong>Lake</strong><br />

<br />

Cheslatta <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Skin<br />

B<br />

10<br />

B U R N S L A K E – H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T


RV SITES<br />

RESORTS & CAMPSITES<br />

TAKYSIE LAKE RESORT NORALEE RESORT<br />

NADINA LODGE<br />

WILDROSE CABINS SANDY’S RESORT<br />

BEAVER POINT RESORT<br />

Listed are not maintained Recreation<br />

Campsites. For more information<br />

please contact the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

<strong>Visitor</strong> Centre:<br />

Tenting Only<br />

Augier <strong>Lake</strong> • • • • •<br />

Pinkut <strong>Lake</strong> • • • • •<br />

Division <strong>Lake</strong> • • •<br />

Taltapin <strong>Lake</strong> • • • • •<br />

Maxan <strong>Lake</strong> • • • • •<br />

Co-op <strong>Lake</strong> • • • •<br />

Guyishton <strong>Lake</strong> • •<br />

Richmond <strong>Lake</strong> • •<br />

Agate Point • • •<br />

Government Point • • • •<br />

West Francois • • •<br />

Noralee West • • • • •<br />

Noralee East • • • • •<br />

Colleymount • • • •<br />

Indian Bay • • • • •<br />

Mollice <strong>Lake</strong> • •<br />

Eastern <strong>Lake</strong> • • • • •<br />

Lund <strong>Lake</strong> • • •<br />

Takysie <strong>Lake</strong> • • • • •<br />

Uncha <strong>Lake</strong> • • • • •<br />

Binta <strong>Lake</strong> North • • • • •<br />

Binta <strong>Lake</strong> South • • • • •<br />

Trout <strong>Lake</strong> • •<br />

Oosta <strong>Lake</strong> • • • •<br />

Moose <strong>Lake</strong> • • •<br />

Knapp <strong>Lake</strong> • • • • •<br />

Mclure Pit • • • •<br />

RV/Tenting<br />

Boat Launch Ramp<br />

Boating<br />

Fishing<br />

Picnicking<br />

12<br />

B U R N S L A K E – H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T


LODGE/RV SITE:<br />

Reservations Required<br />

Total Number of Sites<br />

Number Tenting Sites<br />

Number of Cabins<br />

Number of RV sites<br />

Full Hookups<br />

Showers<br />

Flush or Dry Toilets<br />

Sani-Dump<br />

Campsites/Firewood<br />

Picnic Tables or Shelter<br />

Pet Friendly<br />

Boat Launch<br />

Beaver Point Resort • 34 0 10 34 9 • • • • • • •<br />

Your hosts: Brenda & Jake Hiebert<br />

(1 week<br />

16728 Hwy 35, Box 587 minimum stay)<br />

Reservations: (250) 695 6519 or<br />

1 866 648-9788<br />

email: beaverpoint@lakescom.net<br />

www.bcnorth.ca/beaverpoint<br />

http://beaverpointresort.ca<br />

Takysie <strong>Lake</strong> Resort Highly 50 10 16 40 Power • • • • Picnic • •<br />

Your hosts: Rise & Dave Gruen Recommended and Tables<br />

37530 Eakin Settlement Rd. Water<br />

Reservations: 1 877 694-3403<br />

Only<br />

Phone/Fax: (250) 694-3403<br />

email: takysie@xplornet.com<br />

www.takysielakeresort.ca<br />

Noralee Resort • 30 15 8 30 15 3 Flush • • • •<br />

Your Hosts: Susan & Richard James • Toilets<br />

49400 Colleymount Rd.<br />

Reservations: (250) 695-6399<br />

Fax: (250) 695-6377<br />

email: info@noraleeresort.com<br />

www.noraleeresort.com<br />

or Facebook<br />

Babine <strong>Lake</strong> Resort Cabins – Yes 30 15 6 30 • • Flush • • • • •<br />

Your hosts: Traude & Bill Hoff RV – No Toilets<br />

40048 Babine Rd.<br />

Reservations: (250) 692-0363<br />

Cell: (778) 786-1159<br />

www.babinelakeresort.com<br />

Moosehorn Lodge Cabins – Yes 40 30 11 25 • • • • Charge • • •<br />

Your hosts: Bev & Roger Kyncl RV & Tents – No for<br />

7475 Moosehorn Rd. Firewood<br />

Reservations: (250) 694-3730<br />

Sandy's Resort 70 20 2 50 • • • • • • •<br />

Your hosts: Sheila & Chris Lovas<br />

6549 Colleymount Rd.<br />

Reservations: (250) 695-6321<br />

Cell: (250) 692-0854<br />

email: cslovas@lakescom.net<br />

Nadina <strong>Lake</strong> Lodge • 4 4 5 4 • Dry • • • •<br />

Your hosts: Wendy & Brad Thompson<br />

35886 MacEwen Rd.<br />

Reservations: (250) 695-6788<br />

email: info@nadinalakelodge.ca<br />

Wild Rose Camp • 2<br />

Your hosts: Margreet & Albert Slot<br />

49698 Colleymount Rd.<br />

Reservations: (250) 695-6954<br />

email: wildrosecamp@hotmail.com<br />

www.wildrosecamp.net<br />

Toilets<br />

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13


HOTELS<br />

RANCHES AND B&Bs<br />

HOTEL:<br />

Room Rate<br />

Number of Rooms<br />

Kitchen Units<br />

Pets Allowed<br />

Credit Cards<br />

Complimentary Breakfast<br />

Air Conditioning<br />

Wheelchair Access<br />

Internet Access<br />

Convention/Meeting Room<br />

Cable/Satellite<br />

Smoking Rooms<br />

Coffee Included<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Motor Inn 45 11 • • • • • • • • •<br />

Your host: Kevin Ahn<br />

149 Hwy 16<br />

Phone: (250) 692-7545<br />

Fax: (250) 692-7683<br />

Reservations: 1 800 663-2968<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>land Inn 59+ 24 • • • • • • • •<br />

Your host: Kyung Ahn<br />

329 Hwy 16<br />

Phone: (250) 692-7111<br />

Fax: (250) 692-3075<br />

Reservations: 1 888 441-2999<br />

email: lakelandinn@hotmail.com<br />

Sunshine Inn 89+ 47 12 • • • • • • • •<br />

Your host: Yung Tran<br />

940 Nash Rd Hwy 16 W<br />

Phone: (250) 692-7696<br />

Fax: (250) 692-3145<br />

Reservations: 1 866 388-1100<br />

www.sunshineinn.ca<br />

Travellers Motel 55+ 13 7 • • • • • • •<br />

Your hosts: Manoj & Nutan Parekh<br />

714 McPhail Rd.<br />

Phone: (250) 692-7471<br />

Fax: (250) 692-7431<br />

Wanakena Motel 69+ 17 11 • 1RM • • •<br />

Your hosts: Sarah & James Kim<br />

815 Hwy 16 E<br />

Phone: (250) 692-3151<br />

Fax: (250) 692-7858<br />

Reservations: 1 888 413-3151<br />

www.blwana.com<br />

Takysie <strong>Lake</strong> Suites 70 4 4 • • • •<br />

Your hosts: Rise & Dave Gruen<br />

37530 Eakin Settlement Rd.<br />

Reservations: 1 877 694-3403<br />

Phone/Fax: (250) 694-3403<br />

email: takysie@xplornet.com<br />

www.takysielakeresort.ca<br />

14<br />

B U R N S L A K E – H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T


RESTAURANTS<br />

RESTAURANT: Location Phone Number Style of Food Family<br />

China Moon 117 35 Hwy – <strong>Lake</strong>view Mall (250) 692-7411 Chinese/western •<br />

San Bar 117 35 Hwy – <strong>Lake</strong>view Mall (250) 692-7538 full deli/sandwhich/soups •<br />

Mulvaney’s Pub and Grill 164 16 Hwy (250) 692-3078 Pub-style •<br />

Alternative Grounds 164 16 Hwy (250) 692-3032 Health & Hearty •<br />

KFC 166 16 Hwy (250) 692-3020 Fast Food •<br />

Canadian 2 for 1 Pizza #2 166 16 Hwy (250) 692-7900 Pizza/pasta/salads •<br />

A & W 261 16 Hwy (250) 692-0049 Fast Food •<br />

Dragon Palace 328 16 Hwy (250) 692-7612 Chinese/western •<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>land Hotel 329 16 Hwy (250) 692-7771 Western Cuisine •<br />

New Leaf Café 353 16 Hwy (250) 692-3800 Soup/paninis/dessert •<br />

Redfern’s 79 3rd Ave (250) 692-7379 Subs/soups/pizza •<br />

Subway 503 16 Hwy (250) 692-4124 Subs/soups •<br />

Pan Handle Restaurant 710 McPhail Road (250) 692-3316 Chinese/western •<br />

Dad’s Restaurant 960 16 Hwy West (250) 692-7098 Chinese/western •<br />

Carnoustie (golf season) 16180 16 Hwy, Decker <strong>Lake</strong> (250) 698-7677 Western cuisine •<br />

Grapevine Pub 156 Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Dr (250) 692-0068 Pub-style<br />

Wagon Wheel (seasonal) 35 Hwy Francois <strong>Lake</strong> (250) 695-6486 Burgers •<br />

Takysie <strong>Lake</strong> Resort 37530 Eakin Settlement Rd (250) 694-3404 Café/Diner •<br />

Keefe’s Landing 1207 Uncha <strong>Lake</strong> Rd (250) 694-3375 Café/Diner •<br />

BED & BREAKFAST:<br />

Number of Rooms<br />

Pets Allowed<br />

Children Welcomed<br />

Internet Access<br />

Full/Continental Breakfast<br />

Private Bathroom<br />

Cable/Satellite<br />

Wheelchair Access<br />

Open All Year<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>side Legacy B&B<br />

Your Hosts: Valerie & Alistair Schroff Suite (2) • • Optional<br />

2353 Hospital Point Cabin (2) • • Optional<br />

•<br />

•<br />

•<br />

•<br />

•<br />

Reservations: (250) 694-3696<br />

www.bbcanada.com/lakesidelegacy<br />

VACATION HOME RENTAL:<br />

Wistaria Manor 2 Outdoor • • •<br />

Your Hosts: Tim & Nancy Plesko<br />

36149 Ootsa Nadina Rd<br />

Reservations: Phone/Fax: (250) 694-3377<br />

www.wistariamanor.com<br />

Note: Not a B&B, Minimum 3 night stay<br />

RANCHES:<br />

Kennels<br />

Cougar Ranch 5 • • Shared<br />

Your Hosts: Miriam & Andy Stiffler<br />

51053 Eakin Settlement Road<br />

Reservations: (250) 694-3687<br />

info@cougarranch.net<br />

Double Box Ranch 2 • • Limited • Limited •<br />

Your Hosts: Annie & Ian Van Metre<br />

58686 East Ootsa <strong>Lake</strong> Rd.<br />

Reservations: Phone/Fax: (250) 694-3302<br />

DOUBLE BOX RANCH<br />

OOTSA LAKE RANCH<br />

WISTARIA MANOR<br />

Oosta <strong>Lake</strong> Ranch 5 • Cable Shared<br />

54075 Oosta <strong>Lake</strong> East Rd<br />

Reservations: (250) 694-3417<br />

www.canada-farm-ranch.com<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<br />

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15


Walking<br />

TOUR<br />

A Walking Tour of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Featuring Heritage Buildings<br />

Amble through the Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> at your own<br />

pace and discover architectural treasures of years gone by.<br />

The Village’s heritage buildings have shaped its past and<br />

forged its future into the small friendly town it is today.<br />

Gaze up at church steeples, marvel at arched doorways,<br />

take a peek inside some of the buildings and discover why<br />

these well preserved memories of days gone by are some<br />

of the most treasured and photographed buildings in<br />

the <strong>Lake</strong>s District.<br />

The Old Hospital was built in 1931 by Mrs. Gordon of<br />

the Women’s Missionary Society of the United Church of<br />

Canada and was officially opened in 1932. There was a<br />

suggestion the new hospital be named the ‘Laura Gordon<br />

Hospital’. Mrs. Gordon thanked everyone, but preferred<br />

it be known as the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Hospital. It was once the<br />

largest and finest public building between Prince George<br />

and Prince Rupert. It was famous for its fine gardens on<br />

the west side. In 1982 it was declared a heritage building<br />

and was subsequently redeveloped as an office building by<br />

its tenant and owner, the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Native Development<br />

Corporation.<br />

The old police building was constructed in 1922. It was<br />

the district’s official police residence, courthouse and jail<br />

until the 1950’s. Later, it was renovated as a newspaper<br />

office and declared a municipal heritage building in 1979.<br />

An iron cell block once filled what is now the production<br />

room of the local newspaper.<br />

trappers. Here the first town site was<br />

planned and some of the first lots were<br />

purchased. The cabin became known<br />

as the ‘Bucket of Blood’, reflecting its<br />

supposed use as a gambling club. In<br />

later years it reverted to a private home<br />

to various families. The prized building<br />

is now situated at the museum.<br />

The St. John’s Anglican Church, located<br />

on First Avenue, was constructed in<br />

1927 by the resident priest at that time,<br />

and was opened to the public in 1929.<br />

With a prominent hillside location overlooking<br />

downtown <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> and<br />

a unique arched doorway, St. John’s<br />

and its companion building, the<br />

Old Rectory, are among the most<br />

photographed buildings on<br />

Highway 16.<br />

The Old Forestry Buildings were<br />

constructed in 1939 and designated<br />

as heritage buildings in 1987. They<br />

are now the home of the <strong>Lake</strong>s District<br />

Museum, the Chamber of Commerce<br />

and the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre.<br />

These buildings represent a style<br />

common in the forest service buildings<br />

across B.C. during the 30’s and 40’s.<br />

The ‘Bucket of Blood’ was the first house to be constructed<br />

in <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>. It was built by Lyster Mulvany,<br />

better known as Barney, the founder of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>.<br />

The ‘Bucket of Blood’ was occupied for several years by<br />

Barney and his wife Lillian and it was the scene of many<br />

meetings with old timers, prospectors, land scouts and<br />

16<br />

B U R N S L A K E – H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T


First Nations Carvings<br />

If it’s a Sasquatch directly out of First Nations folklore that<br />

you are looking for, then make your way to <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>.<br />

Standing watch over Highway 16, outside the Ts'il Kaz Koh<br />

First Nation’s Rainbow Gas Bar is a giant, carved red cedar<br />

Sasquatch that is one of just two in the province. Created<br />

by talented B.C. First Nations artist Ben Gerow for the<br />

Ts'il Kaz Koh First Nation, otherwise known as the <strong>Burns</strong><br />

<strong>Lake</strong> Band, the handsome looking fellow attracts his fair<br />

share of attention. Be sure to stop by to fill up your gas<br />

tank and take some photos with the legendary <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Sasquatch. Gerow has also completed four large red<br />

cedar clan carvings that are placed in various locations<br />

throughout the village’s downtown core.<br />

The carvings are a joint initiative between the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Band, the Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>, the Regional District of<br />

Bulkley Nechako and Tourism B.C. Gerow grew up in<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> and has been carving for more than 33 years.<br />

Each of the carvings took approximately one month to<br />

produce, and are created from one solid section of red<br />

cedar. Each carving represents one of the four clans in<br />

the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> area – Bear, Beaver, Caribou and Frog.<br />

As part of the Carrier Society, whose traditional territory<br />

stretches from Anahim <strong>Lake</strong> in the South to Takla <strong>Lake</strong> in<br />

the North, the six First Nations groups in <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> maintain<br />

a governance system referred to as potlatch, or the<br />

Bah’lats. The four primary clans – the Likh ji bu (Bear),<br />

the Likh sta Mis yu (Beaver), the Gilhanten (Caribou) and<br />

the Jihl tse yu (Frog) – each also having several sub clans.<br />

These clans make up Carrier society.<br />

Take a walk around the village, see the sights and discover<br />

the proud culture of the local Carrier people through the<br />

four-clan carvings.<br />

For more information on the walking tour and clan carving<br />

locations, please stop by the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre.<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<br />

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17


Government St<br />

Center St<br />

Alice Turner St<br />

Locke Cres<br />

Witzih St<br />

Aspen St<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> LAke<br />

Village MAp<br />

Hwy 16 W<br />

Rod Reid Nature Trail<br />

Nash Rd<br />

Torrika Dr<br />

Babine Rd<br />

Babine Cres<br />

Upper Lorne St<br />

Duncan Dr<br />

Lower Lorne St<br />

Tsa St<br />

Chas Ave<br />

Toh St<br />

Sus Ave<br />

Gowan Rd<br />

CEMETERY<br />

HOSPITAL<br />

Private Rd<br />

Williams Dr<br />

LIBRARY<br />

Mulvaney Cres<br />

McPhail Rd<br />

Lorne St<br />

Lorne St<br />

7th Ave<br />

Marsh St<br />

8th Ave<br />

9th Ave<br />

Eveneshen Nature Trail<br />

Shelford St<br />

6th Ave<br />

MUSEUM<br />

VILLAGE OFFICE<br />

FIREHALL<br />

THEATRE<br />

4th Ave<br />

5th Ave<br />

Kerr St<br />

Casimir Ave<br />

Eveneshen Dr<br />

POST OFFICE<br />

RADLEY BEACH<br />

Railway Ave<br />

Charlie Cres<br />

Isaac Sam Dr<br />

Tibbes Cres<br />

Gilgan Dr<br />

Water St<br />

Bay St<br />

2nd Ave<br />

Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Dr<br />

Park St Park St<br />

Marilyn Dr<br />

Flogum Dr<br />

BOAT LAUNCH<br />

3rd Ave<br />

SANI-DUMP<br />

Hwy 35<br />

Pioneer Way<br />

Saunders Dr<br />

Gerow Dr<br />

Brown St<br />

1st Ave<br />

Carroll St Carroll St<br />

Hill St<br />

Telegraph Terr<br />

Benne Dr<br />

McKenna St<br />

POLICE<br />

SPIRIT SQUARE<br />

Richmond Loop<br />

Glans Dr<br />

Schri Cres<br />

Kerr Rd<br />

Roumieu Dr<br />

Turner Frtg<br />

Peterson Rd<br />

Hwy 16<br />

Gerow Island Rd<br />

LEGEND<br />

Hwy 35<br />

BURNS LAKE<br />

Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Buildings<br />

Walking Trails<br />

Streams<br />

Railroad<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s<br />

18<br />

B U R N S L A K E – H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T


DISTANCE FROM BURNS LAKE TO:<br />

MILES<br />

KM<br />

Anahim <strong>Lake</strong> (via Williams <strong>Lake</strong>) 485 769<br />

Augier <strong>Lake</strong> 23 37<br />

Babine <strong>Lake</strong> 20 34<br />

Barkerville 246 410<br />

Cache Creek 400 667<br />

Calgary, Alberta 609 1015<br />

Dawson Creek 379 632<br />

Decker <strong>Lake</strong> 4 7<br />

Edmonton, Alberta 578 963<br />

Endako 36 58<br />

Fort Babine 104 167<br />

Fort Fraser 56 90<br />

Fort Nelson 654 1046<br />

Fort St. James 109 182<br />

Fort St. John 428 685<br />

Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Ferry 13 23<br />

Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Loop 122 193<br />

Fraser <strong>Lake</strong> 44 71<br />

Granisle 60 100<br />

Hazelton 132 220<br />

Hinton, Alberta 426 676<br />

Hope 516 860<br />

Houston 47 75<br />

Jasper, Alberta 361 602<br />

Kager <strong>Lake</strong> 3 5<br />

Kamloops 451 751<br />

Kelowna 569 911<br />

Kenney Dam 126 203<br />

Kitimat 245 409<br />

Kitwanga 154 256<br />

McBride 263 438<br />

Moricetown 104 174<br />

New Hazelton 128 213<br />

Noralee Resort 43 72<br />

Ootsa <strong>Lake</strong> 35 60<br />

Pinkut Fisheries 38 64<br />

Pinkut <strong>Lake</strong> 12 20<br />

Prince George 136 226<br />

Prince Rupert 295 492<br />

Quesnel 206 344<br />

Rose <strong>Lake</strong> 15 25<br />

Seattle, Washington 681 1118<br />

Skins Dam 39 65<br />

Smithers 87 145<br />

Stewart 286 477<br />

Tachet 46 74<br />

Takysie <strong>Lake</strong> 26 44<br />

Tchesinkut <strong>Lake</strong> 12 19<br />

Telkwa 79 131<br />

Tete Jaune Cache 301 501<br />

Terrace 211 351<br />

Topley 31 51<br />

Topley Landing 46 74<br />

Uncha <strong>Lake</strong> 29 47<br />

Vancouver 602 1004<br />

Vanderhoof 90 136<br />

Watson <strong>Lake</strong> 661 1000<br />

Whitehorse 848 1413<br />

Williams <strong>Lake</strong> 292 464<br />

Wistaria 50 84<br />

100 Mile House 344 554<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<br />

v c @ b u r n s l a k e c h a m b e r . c o m<br />

19


HISTORY OF<br />

& THE LAKES DI<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is more than just great fishing and beautiful<br />

lakes. The area is steeped in history and rich with First<br />

Nations traditions. Long before European settlers arrived,<br />

the Indigenous Carrier people lived for generations in the<br />

area as hunters and gatherers. Trade routes between coastal<br />

and interior peoples crossed through the area and many of<br />

the larger lakes, in what is now called the <strong>Lake</strong>s District.<br />

These were important trade routes and gathering spots.<br />

Alexander Mackenzie was the first European to travel<br />

through the Carrier territory in the southern part of the<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s District on one of these trade routes. European<br />

settlers came with the westward expansion of the fur<br />

trade and the construction of the Collins Overland Telegraph<br />

Line. The first permanent European settler in the<br />

area was Charles Bulkley, an American engineer who<br />

was involved in the construction of the telegraph line.<br />

After the construction of the railroad, settlers arrived with<br />

the promise of a new life and inexpensive land. Explorers,<br />

gold seekers, traders, railway workers and surveyors<br />

flocked to the area. Today, that same railway track runs<br />

adjacent to Highway 16 and passes right through the<br />

middle of town. The haunting sound of the train whistle<br />

can still be heard throughout the village.<br />

The town’s official founder, Barney Mulvany arrived in<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> by dogsled with the money he had won from<br />

a poker game. Upon arrival he made up two tents and one<br />

became a cook tent. Large numbers showed up for his first<br />

Around 1911, <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> was a major center for the<br />

creation of railroad ties for the Grand Trunk Railway.<br />

Later, it was established as a community and a stop<br />

along the Grand Trunk line.<br />

“Tie Hackers” pull railway ties<br />

out of the dense bush<br />

Local men set up<br />

the town’s fire bell<br />

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BURNS LAKE<br />

TRICT AREA<br />

day of business. The tent town consisted of both a<br />

12 tent hotel and a cook tent. In 1915 Barney had the<br />

town surveyed so that he could sell lots. During the survey<br />

he also built more tents, and in 1917 the survey was<br />

finished. In 1918 the Cheslatta Hotel and the ‘Bucket of<br />

Blood’, the town’s first pub, were constructed. The ‘Bucket<br />

of Blood’ survives today and is on site at the <strong>Lake</strong>s District<br />

Museum. During 1923 the tent town was incorporated<br />

into the Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>. Barney passed away in<br />

1961 at the age of 85.<br />

Another local figure that is fondly remembered is Buckskin<br />

Jim, aka Herbert James Atkinson. He was a scout with<br />

General Custer and was present at Custer’s famous Last<br />

Stand. He was a friend of fellow scout Buffalo Bill and was<br />

almost a partner in Buffalo Bill’s famous Wild West Show.<br />

James lived in the Francois <strong>Lake</strong> area until his death in<br />

1932. Both he and Barney lie in the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Cemetery.<br />

Stop in at the <strong>Lake</strong>s District Museum centrally located in<br />

the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> to find out more about the history of<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>.<br />

Following World War II, forestry rose in prosperity and at<br />

one point <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> had a staggering 90 sawmills. Today,<br />

forestry is still the main industry, with ranching and tourism<br />

close behind. To see the tools and machinery of farming,<br />

forestry, tie hacking, mining and prospecting activities that<br />

have occurred in the area, stop in at the museum and<br />

meet the friendly staff. Take a short stroll around the<br />

grounds and see the tools and machinery of yesteryear.<br />

Cheslatta men on horseback, Cheslatta Trail, 1910<br />

History of the Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Ferry<br />

Today, the Francois Forester vehicle and passenger ferry<br />

crosses between the north bank and south bank of<br />

Francois <strong>Lake</strong>, and provides year-round service. The history<br />

of the crossing shows that getting from one side of the<br />

lake to the other, has not always been the pleasant<br />

experience that it is today.<br />

From the late 1800’s until 1916, residents south of Francois<br />

<strong>Lake</strong> used private boats during the summer and the lake<br />

ice in the winter to cross. In 1916 the Ministry of Transportation<br />

purchased the ‘Kitexchen and barge’. It had a<br />

one-team wagon capacity, however its service was short<br />

lived, when it sank the same year. The Francois Belle and<br />

barge set sail soon after, serving residents until 1922.<br />

In the 1949 service was provided by the Jakob Henkel that<br />

had a capacity of 16 cars and 40 passengers. The ferry<br />

did not run year-round, and winter crossings via the ‘ice<br />

highway’ occasionally resulted in disaster when a vehicle<br />

broke through, plunging into the freezing depths of<br />

Francois <strong>Lake</strong>.<br />

Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Ferry, 1922<br />

On June 13, 1976 the Omineca Princess with a capacity<br />

of four loaded logging trucks, 20 cars and 200 passengers<br />

came on line. This served the area until 2004 when the<br />

Francois Forester was launched and is still in full operation.<br />

This vessel can transport eight logging trucks, 20 other<br />

vehicles and 145 passengers. It operates 18 hours a day,<br />

365 days per year providing an easy, enjoyable way to<br />

travel across Francois <strong>Lake</strong>.<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<br />

v c @ b u r n s l a k e c h a m b e r . c o m<br />

21


FOUR SEASONS<br />

OF FUN<br />

Looking for adventure, excitement and outdoor activities<br />

with lots of elbow room? Add to this a backdrop<br />

of insurmountable scenery, ever-present wildlife and<br />

world-class fishing and you have just a taste of what<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> has to offer. With the iconic Tweedsmuir Park<br />

in its backyard, over 1,000 lakes in the district and a myriad<br />

of trails that reward hikers, mountain bike enthusiasts,<br />

cross country skiers and snow-shoers, there is adventure<br />

to be had at every turn. Wildlife enthusiasts need only<br />

to go a short distance off the beaten track to see black<br />

bear eating wild berries, salmon spawning in man-made<br />

channels, moose grazing and deer in<br />

the fields. Bird watchers will delight<br />

in spotting eagles, hawks and a wide<br />

variety of wild birds.<br />

During winter, stop in at the Tom Forsyth<br />

Memorial Arena to take in a game of<br />

hockey or lace up your skates and take<br />

a spin around the rink. Venture out<br />

onto the frozen lakes for some ice<br />

fishing and reel in a trout.<br />

Rockhounding<br />

The <strong>Lake</strong>s District is a rich hunting ground for the avid rockhounder. There are sites within<br />

a few hours drive from <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>, while others can be hiked to or are accessible by boat.<br />

From Francois <strong>Lake</strong>, to Babine <strong>Lake</strong>, to Ootsa <strong>Lake</strong> you can discover agates, an array of<br />

different coloured jaspers, ryolite and red carnelian agates.<br />

If it’s opals you are looking for, take a short drive from <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> on Highway 35 to<br />

Eagle Creek and follow the signs to the agate and opal beds. Rockhounders will not be<br />

disappointed when visiting <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>. For the fossil hunter, several areas in the <strong>Lake</strong>s<br />

District contain fossils from the mid-Jurassic period, including molluscs, ammonite and<br />

tetrapods. For more information on where to find the best sites, stop in at the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

<strong>Visitor</strong> Centre, where the helpful staff will be able to point you in the right direction.<br />

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& ADVENTURE<br />

Set off on a crisp cross-country skiing adventure. Hop on<br />

a snowmobile for an exhilarating ride through some of the<br />

best scenery in the province or stop in at the curling club<br />

to try your hand at curling. Strap on some snowshoes and<br />

explore. Feel snowflakes fall on your face, marvel at icicles<br />

hanging from every surface, breath in crisp fresh air and<br />

deeply exhale because you’re here. <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is the<br />

outdoor adventure capital of the <strong>Lake</strong>s District.<br />

In summer purchase fresh produce and baked goods from<br />

the Heritage Market, go for a stroll around town, bask in<br />

the sunshine and dip your feet from the swimming dock<br />

into the cool, sparkling waters of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>. Visit Spirit<br />

Square and use one of the free fitness and exercise stations<br />

while gazing out over the lake. Pick wildflowers and<br />

fill buckets with fresh berries. Canoe or kayak on any of<br />

the lakes that are just a stone’s throw away<br />

and marvel at the beauty that is <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>.<br />

donkeys. Watch as the fog rolls in across the <strong>Lake</strong>s<br />

and sit at a campfire enjoying the last days of fall<br />

before the first snowflakes begin to fall. During Spring<br />

watch as flowers blossom, grass emerges, birds return<br />

and <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> buzzes with activity. Four seasons of<br />

beauty, right here in <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>.<br />

Fall is a photographer’s paradise with rich<br />

hues of golden yellow, deep reds and bright<br />

oranges melting over faded greens, all blending<br />

into an awe inspiring, eye popping palette<br />

of colour. Watch as the lakes begin to slowly<br />

freeze over and breathe in the crisp, fresh air.<br />

Listen to the sounds of silence and enjoy the<br />

peace and tranquility. Attend the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

and District Fall Fair and Music Festival and<br />

discover talented locals. Watch the Heavy<br />

Horse Pull competition, loggers sports and see<br />

farm animals ranging from turkeys to miniature<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<br />

v c @ b u r n s l a k e c h a m b e r . c o m<br />

23


MOUNTAIN<br />

RECREATION SITE &<br />

Thrill seekers be ready to meet your match. Some<br />

of the best mountain biking trails in the province,<br />

in Canada and in the world are right here on <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>’s<br />

doorstep, just 10 minutes from downtown. Woven<br />

through some of the best scenery in the area are trails<br />

that are second to none, specifically designed to meet<br />

the needs of all users, from beginners to advanced.<br />

With names like Smells Like Bacon, Pork n’ Beans,<br />

Full Boar, Piglet and Pork Grind, and the Wee Piggy<br />

Skills Park, the “Boer” Mountain theme is taken<br />

to its fullest.<br />

Bike Park and Rec. Site<br />

During the fall of 2006 with the assistance<br />

of Jay Hoots and representatives<br />

from the International Mountain Biking<br />

Association, a skills area and two<br />

downhill runs were designed and<br />

constructed. Approximately 15 kilometres<br />

of single-track trail was laid out. Hoots<br />

returned in June 2007 to design and<br />

supervise construction of a Rotary<br />

sponsored skills park on the same<br />

property. This park hosts a variety of<br />

features, including ladders, teetertotters,<br />

drops, log rides, dirt jumps,<br />

and a pump track which will challenge<br />

riders of all skill levels. Construction of<br />

the single track trail on the park was<br />

completed between 2007 and 2009.<br />

More cross-country and downhill<br />

trails are scheduled for construction<br />

in the coming<br />

years. World renowned<br />

trail design company<br />

Gravity Logic spent<br />

the summer of 2009<br />

constructing new<br />

downhill trail from<br />

the top of Boer<br />

Bike trail map<br />

Mountain. The<br />

available at the<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

trails have been<br />

<strong>Visitor</strong> Centre<br />

developed in partnership<br />

with the<br />

Province of British Columbia through<br />

the Recreation Sites and Trails division.<br />

The Boer Mountain Recreation Site was<br />

the recipient of the 2010 Premier's Award<br />

for Innovation in conjunction with the Smithers<br />

Mountain Biking Association project through<br />

Recreations Sites and Trails.<br />

24<br />

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BIKING<br />

CAMPING ON THE LAKE<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is a world-class mountain biking destination<br />

and it is quickly becoming the talk of the mountain biking<br />

world, already having been featured in several articles and<br />

television documentaries. Numerous local riders, hikers,<br />

dog-walkers and snow-shoers make use of the trails year<br />

round. There is a six-week coaching program to teach new<br />

riders the skills to launch into the sport. Every summer, the<br />

‘Big Pig’ Mountain Bike Festival, rolls into town. It’s a<br />

three-day fat tire extravaganza that draws in downhill and<br />

cross country enthusiasts from across the province and<br />

features competitive riding and an evening of live music.<br />

All of the trails in the Boer Mountain trail network are<br />

100 per cent legal and sanctioned. They twist and turn<br />

through more than 4,000 hectares of wilderness on and<br />

around Boer Mountain. In the seven years since its inception,<br />

a great deal has been achieved. The Boer Mountain<br />

Trail Network is recognized and heralded as one of the<br />

most progressive, sanctioned and sustainable trail<br />

networks anywhere on the planet.<br />

Kager <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Kager <strong>Lake</strong> is the main trailhead and parking area for the<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Trails. Recently expanded to a full campground,<br />

Kager <strong>Lake</strong> now offers visitors the opportunity to park<br />

their RV or vehicle at several car camping sites on Boer<br />

Mountain. There are seven car camping sites just off the<br />

main parking area tucked away in the trees, offering<br />

privacy with centrally located outhouse facilities. Each site<br />

has a level area for tents or RVs, a picnic table and fire<br />

ring. The Kager <strong>Lake</strong> Trail is also a must ride or walk with<br />

lake views along this easy, wide, gravel surfaced trail. Ten<br />

tent camping sites are sprinkled around the Kager <strong>Lake</strong><br />

trail, offering even greater seclusion and a unique experience<br />

for those who like to venture a bit further from their<br />

vehicles. Bring your canoe or kayak for a paddling adventure<br />

on the scenic lake. There is a sun deck and swimming<br />

dock just below the main parking and car camping area.<br />

Fishing for small trout can also be enjoyed from this dock.<br />

The newest trail, the epic ‘Stearns Creek Canyon Trail’ is<br />

an awe-inspiring cross-country climb and descent.The trail<br />

originates at the Bike Park’s parking lot and follows the<br />

eastern perimeter of the Boer Mountain Recreation Site<br />

to the top of Boer Mountain itself. It’s not to be missed,<br />

so see you out there!<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<br />

v c @ b u r n s l a k e c h a m b e r . c o m<br />

25


Cold Smoke<br />

DRAG RACES<br />

Sled pitted against sled, engines rev and rumble<br />

on the starting line while anxious spectators<br />

grip steaming hot coffee in anticipation<br />

of the exhilarating speeds that will<br />

be reached on the track that day.<br />

Cameras are lined up in readiness as<br />

the light flicks from red to green, and<br />

they are off. Without missing a beat<br />

the sleds tear up the track, the skis<br />

lifting off the ground on take off from<br />

the power at the competitors fingertips.<br />

This is the Cold Smoke Snowmobile<br />

Drag Races, held annually in <strong>Burns</strong><br />

<strong>Lake</strong> usually in February.<br />

Races are held over<br />

two full days and<br />

range from the<br />

‘Kitty Kat’ class<br />

right up to the big<br />

guns – the King Class.<br />

Competitors arrive in<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> from across<br />

the north and as far afield<br />

as Alaska and the Yukon to challenge each other for<br />

a place on the podium, aiming to be the best in their<br />

class. The race site features a two lane, 500 foot track<br />

including 1,000 feet of run out and a Race America<br />

Drag Light System.<br />

The event is also a major drawing card for spectators<br />

with two days of races, scheduled entertainment and<br />

a toasty warm concession tent. Plenty of parking is<br />

available on the site. Along with the two days of<br />

exhilarating races, a dinner and dance on the<br />

Saturday night of the event has proven to be<br />

very popular. The Cold Smoke Drags are a great<br />

place for riders to meet other riders who share<br />

the same passion, and a terrific place for spectators<br />

to watch competitors push<br />

their sleds to the limit for a chance<br />

at claiming the top spot. It’s a<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> event that shouldn’t<br />

be missed.<br />

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Skiing<br />

CROSS-COUNTRY<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> has a long tradition of cross-country skiing<br />

and biathlon and proudly claims to being the oldest<br />

ski club in British Columbia and possibly in Canada.<br />

The Omineca Ski Club, established in 1927, is located five<br />

kilometres south of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>. During 2013, the club is<br />

celebrating its 85 year anniversary. To date <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

has hosted four Canadian National Championships, the<br />

Canadian Seniors in 1975, 1989 and 1996, and the<br />

Canadian Juniors in 1977. Two community members have<br />

also competed at the Olympics; Kari Engstad in the Winter<br />

Olympics in 1936, and Esther Miller in the Winter Olympics<br />

in 1976 and 1980. Take a short drive to Decker <strong>Lake</strong> on<br />

Highway 16, just west of the Village of<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> to see a sign on the highway<br />

dedicated to Miller’s Olympic feats.<br />

To experience the Omineca Ski Club trails<br />

for yourself, head south on Highway 35<br />

from <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>. A cross-country ski sign<br />

indicates the turn-off to the trails. Turn<br />

left at the sign and follow the road to<br />

the ski lodge. Once there you can set<br />

out on any number of numerous wide,<br />

groomed ski trails of easy to moderate<br />

degrees of difficulty. The trails are rated<br />

according to difficulty and this is indicated<br />

on each trail and the trail sign in<br />

the parking lot. Some of the ski trails<br />

are flat, others gentle rolling and some<br />

with steep sections. If you haven't had a<br />

chance to ski after dark then the lighted<br />

ski trails are a unique experience. Keep<br />

an eye out for wildlife too. The Omineca<br />

Ski Trails pass through various ecosystems.<br />

You may spot, deer and moose as well as<br />

all types of birds. With all this to offer,<br />

you can’t go wrong when you set out<br />

on a cross-country skiing adventure<br />

in <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>.<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<br />

v c @ b u r n s l a k e c h a m b e r . c o m<br />

27


SALMON<br />

Every year the annual salmon run attracts visitors to<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> and the <strong>Lake</strong>s District. The area boasts<br />

populations of sockeye, kokanee, chinook, pink, steelhead<br />

and coho salmon.<br />

Several species of Pacific salmon make the journey upstream<br />

from the Skeena River to <strong>Lake</strong> Babine to spawning channels.<br />

Both the Fulton River and Pinkut Creek artificial spawning<br />

beds are popular tourist attractions. Make a day of it or<br />

stay a while. There are many resorts that cater to anglers<br />

and camping is also available at some locations.<br />

Pinkut Creek Spawning Channel<br />

The Pinkut Creek Spawning Channel is a Department of<br />

Fisheries and Oceans Canada facility located on the shore<br />

of Babine <strong>Lake</strong> at the mouth of Pinkut Creek. It was<br />

created as part of the Babine <strong>Lake</strong> Development Project<br />

to enhance sockeye salmon production by providing a<br />

sustainable spawning habitat. The facility is located<br />

approximately 42 kilometres north of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> on<br />

FISHING<br />

unpaved forestry roads. The public can<br />

access the site near the lake, at the<br />

marine park access point. Parking is<br />

limited and visitors are asked to walk<br />

into the site and stay within public<br />

viewing areas. A 4-wheel drive vehicle<br />

is recommended. Larger motor homes<br />

are difficult to turn around on the narrow<br />

road leading to the parking area.<br />

Camping is not permitted on site, but<br />

there are a couple of campsites nearby.<br />

Dogs must be kept on a leash at all<br />

times. Please be aware that bears and<br />

other wildlife may be observed during<br />

different times of the year, and use<br />

caution at all times. The salmon usually<br />

arrive between the first and second<br />

week in August, with channel loading<br />

completed by the end of August.<br />

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Native Salmon Fishing<br />

For generations, <strong>Lake</strong> Babine Nation has used traditional<br />

salmon weirs on Babine <strong>Lake</strong> and the Babine River, harvesting<br />

in excess of 750,000 sockeye annually. The fish were<br />

preserved in vast quantities for food and used as a commodity<br />

to trade with neighbouring First Nations groups,<br />

fur traders and sold to the Hudson’s Bay Company.<br />

In 1906, the Canadian government banned the traditional<br />

fishery. Over the past two decades <strong>Lake</strong> Babine Nation<br />

worked to re-establish their traditional fishery and their<br />

efforts have paid off. During 2011 and 2012 <strong>Lake</strong> Babine<br />

Nation’s fisheries were the second largest commercial<br />

sockeye fisheries in the province and one of the world’s<br />

most sustainable wild salmon fisheries.<br />

Over the last couple of years <strong>Lake</strong> Babine Nation has been<br />

selling fresh sockeye salmon directly to the public from all<br />

three fishing sites, which has become very popular for<br />

both locals and tourists.<br />

<strong>Lake</strong> Babine Nation’s fishery connects the past with the<br />

future, creating employment, training opportunities and<br />

revenue through the sustainable use of a renewable<br />

resource.<br />

<strong>Lake</strong> Babine Nation’s commercial fisheries are considered<br />

sustainable as they target fish from the Pinkut and Fulton<br />

spawning channels using dip nets, beach seines, and<br />

small fish boats. Approximately 100 <strong>Lake</strong> Babine Nation<br />

fishers produce wild sockeye that can be found in<br />

seafood markets throughout the world. The nontargeted<br />

species are released back into the river.<br />

<strong>Lake</strong> Babine Nation has three<br />

commercial fisheries:<br />

two on Babine <strong>Lake</strong> and<br />

one on Babine River. As a<br />

direct result they are gaining<br />

socially and economically<br />

significant results, just as<br />

they did over 100 years ago.<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3 v c @ b u r n s l a k e c h a m b e r . c o m 29


FISHING<br />

& FLY-IN FISHING<br />

With approximately 20 crystal clear freshwater lakes<br />

in the immediate vicinity of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>, you can<br />

understand why the area is known as a fishing paradise.<br />

There is a very good reason why the Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>’s<br />

logo prominently features an image of a fish leaping from<br />

a lake.<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is nestled close to five<br />

thousand kilometres of lakes that<br />

ripple from the Stikine Mountains in<br />

the west to the Omineca Mountain<br />

range in the east. When it comes to<br />

fishing in the <strong>Lake</strong>s District, you can<br />

be sure there are plenty of options.<br />

Avid anglers can drop a line in any<br />

of the lakes in the area and reel in<br />

cutthroat and rainbow trout, char,<br />

kokanee, ling cod and salmon.<br />

The <strong>Lake</strong>s District provides excellent<br />

fishing for some of the largest<br />

rainbow trout and lake char in the<br />

province. There is no need for ‘tall<br />

fishing tales’ when you go on a<br />

fishing expedition in the local area,<br />

with char weighing in at upwards<br />

of 12 kg (25 lbs) and rainbows from<br />

5-6 kg (10-14 lbs) and you can take<br />

home the photos to prove it!<br />

There is no better place in the province to sit back, relax<br />

and drop in a line. Whether you choose to cast your line<br />

from the shore, or launch your boat into one of the many<br />

lakes and search for that perfect fishing spot, it’s up to you.<br />

Why not join the locals for ice fishing in the winter? Grab<br />

your auger, bundle up warmly and set out on the lake for<br />

a fun day of ice fishing and reel in a trout or char.<br />

If you want to see one of the largest salmon runs in the<br />

world visit the Pinkut Creek Spawning Channel. Located<br />

on Babine <strong>Lake</strong>, the longest natural lake in the province,<br />

the 177 kilometre long lake is just 30 kilometres north<br />

of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>.<br />

Pinkut Creek is owned and operated by Fisheries and<br />

Oceans Canada.<br />

<strong>Visitor</strong>s to the area should keep in mind that travelling to<br />

Pinkut Creek requires travelling on a radio assisted logging<br />

road for most of the journey. Watch for wildlife on the<br />

scenic drive.<br />

<strong>Visitor</strong>s are also welcome at the Pinkut Creek Hatcheries.<br />

It’s one of the largest of its type in the world. The salmon<br />

run is a magnificent sight that is sure to be a much talked<br />

about memory for years to come. The best viewing of this<br />

natural phenomenon is in late August and early September.<br />

A popular angling event in the <strong>Lake</strong>s District is the annual<br />

Ootsa <strong>Lake</strong> Fishing Derby. This takes places every year on<br />

the Labour Day weekend at the beginning of September.<br />

Prizes are given for the catch of the day.<br />

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Fly-in Fishing in the <strong>Lake</strong>s District<br />

Fly-in fishing is also offered in the area in Tweedsmuir Park<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>’s door step.<br />

A guided trip to Tweedsmuir Park offers world renowned<br />

fly-in fishing for trophy rainbow trout. Couple this with<br />

scenic mountains, lakes and wildlife and you have a<br />

wilderness adventure that is second to none.<br />

Tweedsmuir Park<br />

Fly-In Fishing Lodges:<br />

Reservations required<br />

Number of Cabins<br />

Supplies Needed<br />

Boats Supplied<br />

Open<br />

Fishing Gear Supplied<br />

Coles <strong>Lake</strong> Lodge • 1 Bedding • May to<br />

TESLA LAKE LODGE<br />

Your Hosts: Nick & Mary Hawes Food Oct.<br />

1810 Hwy 35 Fishing<br />

Reservations: 1 877 235-2115<br />

Gear/<br />

(250) 692-3229 License<br />

email: flying@ldair.ca<br />

www.ldair.ca<br />

Redfern River Lodge • 1 Fishing • • June to<br />

COLES LAKE LODGE<br />

Your Hosts: Randy & Gabriella Hamp License Sept.<br />

Box 1088 <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Reservations: 1 877 692-7808<br />

All<br />

www.redfernriverlodge.ca<br />

Inclusive<br />

Tesla <strong>Lake</strong> Lodge • 1 Bedding • June to<br />

Your Hosts: Nick & Mary Hawes Food Oct.<br />

1810 Hwy 35<br />

Reservations: (250) 692-3229<br />

Fishing<br />

email: flying@ldair.ca<br />

Gear/<br />

www.ldair.ca<br />

License<br />

REDFERN RIVER LODGE<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<br />

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TWEEDSMUIR<br />

PROVINCIAL PARK<br />

If you are looking for the perfect place to get away<br />

from it all and somewhere to fully immerse yourself in<br />

nature, then Tweedsmuir Park wilderness area will, without<br />

a doubt, surpass all your expectations. Whether you are<br />

looking for a boating adventure, some of the best fishing<br />

spots in the Province, a relaxing place to camp and go hiking<br />

or to set out on a hunting expedition, Tweedsmuir Park is<br />

your ultimate destination. <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> is the ‘Gateway’ to<br />

the Northern end of Tweedsmuir Park. With<br />

the northern section at just under 500,000<br />

hectares of wilderness, the recreational opportunities<br />

are boundless. Keep in mind that<br />

a Tweedsmuir Park adventure requires you to<br />

be completely self-sufficient, since there are<br />

no supplies of any kind available within the<br />

park. A highly recommended option is to<br />

travel with a professional guide, who will<br />

know all the best places to visit, as well as<br />

the rules and regulations of the park.<br />

The park also has a well-documented history.<br />

It was established May 21, 1938, being<br />

named for the 15th Governor General of<br />

Canada, Baron Tweedsmuir of Elsfield. The<br />

Governor General travelled by floatplane<br />

and horseback throughout the park during<br />

August 1937, and he and his party were<br />

greatly impressed by its magnificence. The<br />

adventures have been well documented in<br />

the National Geographic Magazine issue of<br />

April 1938, by Lady Tweedsmuir of Elsfield.<br />

First Nations traditions are also<br />

infused throughout the park.<br />

Eutsuk <strong>Lake</strong> derives its name<br />

from the Ulkatcho Carrier<br />

dialect. As well, a number of<br />

waterways have been named<br />

after Father Adrien Gabriel<br />

Morice, who surveyed and<br />

mapped the park in the late<br />

19th century.<br />

Wildlife is abundant in the<br />

park and during summer and<br />

fall a wide variety of fauna can<br />

be viewed. Caribou inhabit the slopes of the Quanchus<br />

and Chikamin Mountain Ranges. Mountain goats, moose,<br />

wolves, mule deer and both black and grizzly bears are<br />

also common.<br />

Wolverines, Siberian lemmings and grouse inhabit the<br />

grasslands and a number of bird species, including willow<br />

ptarmigans, grey-crowned rosy finches and goldencrowned<br />

sparrows can be viewed throughout the park’s<br />

grassland and wooded areas. Around the Nechako<br />

Reservoir, dead trees provide nesting sites for ospreys.<br />

The park is located south of Highway 16, approximately<br />

90 kilometres between <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> and Houston.<br />

Maps and brochures are available<br />

at the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre<br />

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WILDLIFE<br />

VIEWING<br />

The opportunities for viewing wildlife in the <strong>Lake</strong>s<br />

District are just as plentiful as the lakes that give<br />

the area its name.<br />

Black bear, grizzly bear, moose, deer, lynx, cougars,<br />

wolves, coyotes, beaver and mountain goat all inhabit<br />

the area, along with a myriad of other small<br />

mammals.<br />

Bird watchers and avid photographers<br />

will take delight in viewing the local<br />

area’s birds such as grouse, bald<br />

eagles, hawks, woodpeckers and<br />

a variety of hummingbirds, which are<br />

plentiful during the summer months.<br />

With all the beautiful flowers blooming<br />

in the <strong>Lake</strong>s District during summer<br />

hummingbirds can be seen flitting from<br />

garden to flower basket drinking nectar.<br />

The Rufous Hummingbird is just one of<br />

the species to inhabit Northern British<br />

Columbia during the summer. It travels<br />

all the way from Mexico to Northern B.C.,<br />

heading as far north as Southern Alaska,<br />

a 2400 km (2000 mile) journey. The<br />

Anna’s Hummingbird also frequents the<br />

area. It is the only type of hummingbird<br />

with a red crown.<br />

If it’s birds of prey you are looking for,<br />

take a scenic 20 minute drive from <strong>Burns</strong><br />

<strong>Lake</strong> on Highway 35 to Francois <strong>Lake</strong>.<br />

Board the free car ferry to the Southside<br />

and head to beautiful Ootsa <strong>Lake</strong>, the<br />

home of the world’s largest nesting population<br />

of osprey. The osprey is a fish eating<br />

bird of prey that can grow to in excess of<br />

60 cm (24 inches)<br />

in length, with a<br />

wingspan of 180 cm<br />

(71 inches).<br />

A visit to the<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s District<br />

provides the<br />

opportunity<br />

to see this<br />

majestic bird<br />

in its own<br />

natural habitat –<br />

a photographer’s dream. A variety of<br />

species of owls can also be seen in<br />

the area.<br />

There are several locations along Highway<br />

16 on the way to Houston and on the<br />

Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Circle Loop where bald<br />

eagles can be viewed quite regularly.<br />

When viewing wildlife, care should be<br />

taken not to disturb the natural habitat.<br />

As well, all necessary safety precautions<br />

must be taken. Be bear aware when<br />

travelling in the area and watch out<br />

for wildlife on the roads.<br />

For more information on local area wildlife, and to<br />

see a number of local species on display done by a<br />

local taxidermist, stop in to see the friendly staff at<br />

the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre, conveniently located<br />

on Highway 16, right in the centre of town.<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<br />

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ARTS & CULTURE<br />

IN OUR COMMUNITY<br />

A<br />

rts<br />

and culture is alive and well in the <strong>Lake</strong>s District.<br />

From musical and dance acts, to concerts, street<br />

parades, festivals and organized events, there is always<br />

something to do and see. Indigenous Arts permeate the<br />

spirit of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> with several annual festivals celebrated<br />

in the community. National Aboriginal Day is a large<br />

celebration in <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> with six local area First Nations<br />

groups gathering together for a colourful parade through<br />

the village centre, followed by a full day of events at Spirit<br />

Square on the shores of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>. From soapberry ice<br />

cream making to traditional dance and song, it’s a<br />

memorable day for everyone.<br />

Also not to be missed is the Kyle Daniels Memorial<br />

Pow-Wow. A cultural extravaganza that is held in <strong>Burns</strong><br />

<strong>Lake</strong> on an annual basis, bringing in First Nations groups<br />

from across the county for traditional dance and song.<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s District Secondary School also holds an Indigenous<br />

Arts Festival annually, as well as several top-notch musicals<br />

and performances throughout the school year.<br />

If you are looking for a unique work of art for your home,<br />

the <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> area has a number of talented artists<br />

producing award winning works including scratch art,<br />

soap stone carvings, photography and paintings on a<br />

wide variety of mediums, all available for purchase from<br />

local art galleries.<br />

Since 2006 the <strong>Lake</strong>s District Arts Council has been hosting<br />

numerous live performances in the <strong>Lake</strong>s District. Both in<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> and the Southside, musical, dance and theatre<br />

acts from across Canada and the world, have tread the<br />

boards in <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>. From Tchaikovsky's Swan <strong>Lake</strong> Ballet<br />

to a capella harmonies and talented instrumentalists,<br />

to energetic ethnic dancers, a night out at a performing<br />

arts event is all that it is promised to be, and more.<br />

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Community Events<br />

WINTER<br />

November<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Rotary Radio Auction<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Public Library Christmas Craft Fair<br />

December<br />

Mistletoe Mania – Late Night Shopping<br />

Grassy Christmas Bazaar<br />

January<br />

Annual Ladies Night Out<br />

February<br />

Cold Smoke Snowmobile Races<br />

Rod & Gun Wild Game Dinner<br />

Teck Northern Cup #3<br />

Omineca Open<br />

Family Skidoo Poker Ride<br />

Southside Winter Games<br />

SPRING<br />

March<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s Loppet & Family Marathon<br />

Coffee House<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Figure Skating Club Carnival<br />

Indigenous Arts Festival<br />

April<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s District Festival of Performing Arts<br />

May<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s District Kennel Club Dog Show<br />

Mud Bogs<br />

Mother’s Day Tea<br />

SUMMER<br />

June<br />

Aboriginal Days<br />

Sandy’s Resort Fishing Derby<br />

Family Fishing Weekend All over BC<br />

(Father’s Day Weekend)<br />

Father’s Day Quad Poker Ride<br />

Senior Society BBQ<br />

July<br />

Canada Day Celebrations<br />

Grassy Plains Summer Music Festival<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Show & Shine<br />

August<br />

Summer Garden Tour: Southside<br />

Big Pig Festival<br />

Babine Resort Fishing Derby<br />

(August Long Weekend)<br />

Granisle Days<br />

FALL<br />

September<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s District Fall Fair<br />

Terry Fox Run<br />

Oosta <strong>Lake</strong> Fishing Derby<br />

Labour Day Weekend<br />

Grassy Plains Fall Poker Ride<br />

Labour Day Fishing Derby<br />

October<br />

Harvest Supper<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s District Arts Council<br />

– Grassy Plains Hall Performance<br />

C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<br />

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35


VISITOR AMENITIES<br />

Emergency Contact Numbers<br />

911 (EMERGENCY SERVICES)<br />

Police Local (250) 692-7171<br />

Ambulance 1 800 461-9911<br />

Fire Local (250) 692-3555<br />

Forest Fire Reports 1 800 663-5555<br />

Conservation Officers (250) 692-7777<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s District Maintenance (250) 692-7766<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Car Service (Taxi) (250) 698-7988<br />

BVK Towing (250) 692-3414<br />

Other Important Numbers:<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s District Hospital (250) 692-2400<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> and District<br />

Chamber of Commerce (250) 692-3773<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Medical Clinic (250) 692-3111<br />

Village of <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> (250) 692-7587<br />

Regional District of (250) 692-3195<br />

Bulkley Nechako 1 800 320-3339<br />

<strong>Lake</strong>s District Air Service (250) 692-3229<br />

Baker Airport (250) 692-0220<br />

or (250) 698-7364<br />

Nadina Forest District (250) 692-2200<br />

Church Directory<br />

First Mennonite Church (250) 692-3259<br />

530 Kerr Road, <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Sunday Service: 10:30 am<br />

Island Gospel Fellowship (250) 692-7551<br />

810 Hwy 35<br />

Worship Service: 10:30 am<br />

Grassy Plains Gospel Church (250) 694-3329<br />

Sunday Service: 10:45 am<br />

Immaculate Heart (250) 692-3568<br />

of Mary Catholic Parish<br />

248 3rd Ave<br />

Saturday Service: 7:30 pm<br />

Sunday Service: 10:00 am<br />

The Church of Jesus Christ (250) 695-6316<br />

of Latter-Day Saints<br />

Hwy 35 & Francois <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Sunday Service: 10:00 am<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Community Church (250) 692-7949<br />

(call for location)<br />

Sunday Service: 10:30 am<br />

Old Landmarks Christian (250) 692-9196<br />

Fellowship at:<br />

Muriel Mould Neighbourhood<br />

Learning Centre<br />

Sunday Service: 10:30 am<br />

St. Paul’s United Church (250) 692-7202<br />

136 4th Avenue<br />

Sunday Worship: 10:00 am<br />

Decker <strong>Lake</strong> Mennonite Church (250) 698-7444<br />

6760 Hwy 16, Decker <strong>Lake</strong><br />

Worship Service: 10:30 am<br />

Seventh Day Adventist (250) 695-6586<br />

Church Group<br />

Meets at the United Church:<br />

136 4th Avenue<br />

Saturday Service: at 10:00 am<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Pentecostal Church (250) 692-7464<br />

724 Babine <strong>Lake</strong> Road<br />

Sunday Service: 10:30 am<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> Vineyard (250) 692-7962<br />

Christian Fellowship<br />

457 Hwy 16 West<br />

Sunday Service: 10:30 am<br />

Francois <strong>Lake</strong> Ferry Schedule<br />

Departs Northside Departs Southside<br />

5:55 A.M. 5:30 A.M.<br />

6:45 A.M. 6:20 A.M.<br />

7:35 A.M. 7:10 A.M.<br />

8:25 A.M. 8:00 A.M.<br />

9:15 A.M. 8:50 A.M.<br />

10:05 A.M. 9:40 A.M<br />

11:00 A.M. 10:30 A.M.<br />

12:01 P.M. 11:30 A.M.<br />

1:00 P.M. 12:30 P.M.<br />

2:00 P.M. 1:30 P.M.<br />

2:55 P.M. 2:30 P.M.<br />

3:45 P.M. 3:20 P.M.<br />

4:35 P.M. 4:10 P.M.<br />

5:25 P.M. 5:00 P.M.<br />

6:15 P.M. 5:50 P.M.<br />

7:05 P.M. 6:40 P.M.<br />

8:00 P.M. 7:30 P.M.<br />

9:00 P.M. 8:30 P.M.<br />

10:00 P.M. 9:30 P.M.<br />

11:00 P.M. 10:30 P.M.<br />

36<br />

B U R N S L A K E – H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T


<strong>Lake</strong>side, Hillside, Countryside…<br />

the<br />

Southside<br />

Just a Ferry Ride Away!<br />

Services • Hook-ups • Camping • Accommodations • Food<br />

seda@lakescom.net<br />

250-694-3219 www.sedabc.ca


H E A R T O F T H E L A K E S D I S T R I C T<br />

For more information on <strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong><br />

and the <strong>Lake</strong>s District please contact:<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong> <strong>Visitor</strong> Centre<br />

Box 339<br />

540 Hwy. 16 West<br />

<strong>Burns</strong> <strong>Lake</strong>, BC<br />

V0J 1E0<br />

Phone: (250) 692-3773 Fax: (250) 692-3701<br />

Email: vc@burnslakechamber.com<br />

www.burnslakechamber.com

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