When the Coquihalla Highway was built, the new route cut right through the middle of the Bush Lake Cross Country Ski Trail system so a new area was developed, the Stake Lake Trails. Over time, the Overlander Ski Club has maintained and expanded the trails. There are now over 60k m of trails all signed at junctions. There is good parking and washrooms at the Stake Lake Parking lot. A great deal of information on the trails can be found on the OSC’s website (link):
- Please note that the Ski Trails cannot be used for hiking during the ski season.
- Snowshoe Trails are available for hikers/snowshoers in winter.
- Hikers use the trails from April through November.
Driving Directions:
- From the Trans Canada Highway, take the Copperhead Road Exit, then turn onto the Lac le Jeune Road.
- At about 25 km watch for the Stake Lake sign on the left.
Trailheads:
- The main trailhead is at the Stake Lake parking lot.
- The trail system can also be accessed in summer from McConnell Lake and from the Lac le Jeune area.
- There are many trail options.
- All of the signed trails are fine for hiking and mountain biking.
- Since the trailheads are at 4200 – 4400 feet, the early season can be muddy with late snow melt. Puddles linger in low spots until summer.
- Mosquito season is usually early June through mid-July.
- When the summers become hot, the Stake Lake Trails are somewhat cooler, especially routes through the forest.
- The loop around Stake Lake is only 2.6 km, perfect for families with young children.
- Many hikers enjoy the viewpoints on McConnell Hill and the Vista Viewpoint over Lac le Jeune, creating loops from the trails.
More Information:
- At Stake Lake
- Stake Lake Trails in Summer
- McConnell Hill Double Loop
- Lac le Jeune Lookout Loop (Vista Trail)
- We have been hiking, biking, walking, paddling, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing on these trails for 38 years. There are many articles on the website, best accessed with the Search function.