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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 />
2<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 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 />
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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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7
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 />
C O N T A C T : ( 2 5 0 ) 6 9 2 - 3 7 7 3<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 />
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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 />
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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 />
20<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
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 />
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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 />
22<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
& 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 />
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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 />
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
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 />
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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 />
26<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
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 />
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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 />
28<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
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 />
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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 />
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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 />
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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 />
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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 />
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<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