The trail around McConnell Lake is a moderate BC Parks forested loop trail of 3 km.   It takes about an hour to hike around the lake, most of it close to the lakeshore.   The trail is at 1326m elevation (4350 feet) so the high montane forest is primarily douglas fir and spruce.   The trail is a narrow one so it is best hiked from April through November.

McConnell Lake is popular with fishermen and paddlers.   On a windier day it is a good spot since it sits within natural bowl, offering some protection for boaters.

Along the way we spotted a number of wildflowers in the open spots.

wild rose	tiger lily
bunchberry	columbine

Side trails lead off the Fish and wildlife cabin,and up to Sidewinder on the Stake Lake system.  We explored a bit to lengthen the day’s hike.

An enjoyable combination is to paddle around the shoreline, then hike the loop trail, a 6 km outing.

More information:

• McConnell Lake Provincial Park
• Stake Lake Trails