Paddlers from all over the world travel to North America's largest non-motorized lake.   In British Columbia, we sometimes take such special places for granted, but it's right in our backyard.   Murtle Lake is a destination for paddlers, hikers, and anyone loving to camp in remote mountains.    The water is crystal clear, the beaches are wonderful, wildlife is abundant, and the views are wonderful.   We hope to get back to Murtle Lake every 2-3 years.

Murtle Lake will require some preparation.   It would be very impractical to think of it as a day trip.   Traveling time, a portage, and overnight camping all need to be planned.   No campfires are allowed so you have to bring a camp stove and all of your own gear.   Campsites are primitive so your boat has to have all the gear you might need.  

To get to Murtle Lake, drive north to Blue River.   Turn left at a signed intersection and follow a twisting, rough gravel road for 27km up into the hills.   At the parking lot, you will start the process of loading your boat onto a cart.   If you don't have a cart, you can rent one at the campground at the turn-off in Blue River.   Load your supplies into your boat and pull your cart along a gravel path for 2.5 km to the lagoon launch site.   You can lock your cart there (a rack is provided).    You will then reload your canoe or kayak to launch.   A fee is charged for staying overnight at one of the campgrounds at $5/person/night.   The first 1.5 km is through a lagoon where you emerge into the lake.   There is a wide beach at this point and a campground there if you have made a late launch.   As you paddle out into the east bay, you will have to decide to head west or north.   There are 19 camping spots on the lake.   Your first paddle will likely be to your first campground.   it is a long paddle to the end of either arm, so the conditions, the time, and your fitness will limit your choices.   Each arm is different and a subsequent post will explain a bit about what to expect. 

Some campsites are special spots:

More posts to follow in succession.