Ptarmigan Creek Park
About this Park
Ptarmigan Creek Park is a narrow, steep-sided valley at the north end of the Cariboo Mountains Ecosection above the Upper Fraser Trench.
The park protects 3,329 hectares of the complete, intact watershed of the east branch of Ptarmigan Creek, a tributary to the Fraser River which is habitat for Caribou and Grizzly Bears.
Safety information
- Bring your own drinking water as potable water is not available in the park.
Location notes
The access road to this park is about 5 km west of Crescent Spur, about 165 km east of Prince George along the Yellowhead (Highway 16) corridor, approximately 500 m west of Catfish Creek. Ptarmigan Creek Park is close to Erg Mountain Park, and the two parks share to same access road and trail head. The trailhead is 8 km from Highway 16.
The closest communities to this park are Prince George and McBride.
Activities
- 9034:Winter recreation There are backcountry skiing opportunites and showshoeing opportunities available on the regular summer trails. However, no cross-country skiing tracks are set.
- 9034:Hiking From Crescent Spur along the Yellowhead Highway (Hwy 16), the park is accessible via the Ptarmigan Creek Forest Road (about 8 km). From this location, an 11 km trail follows Ptarmigan Creek to three subalpine lakes (Hammel Lakes) near the headwaters. High waters during the 2001 summer season have washed out many sections of the trail and the footbridge crossings. Note: the trail is not well-marked. The trail is not recommended for inexperienced people as it is difficult to follow due to dense shoulder-high vegetation and few markers. For your own safety and the preservation of the park, obey posted signs and keep to designated trails. Shortcutting trails destroys plant life and soil structure.
- 9034:Fishing Please check the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis for site-specific information.
- 9034:Wildlife viewing There are wildlife viewing opportunities in this park. There are beautiful mountain lakes and great view from different ridges.
- 9034:Pets on leash Pets and domestic animals must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed in beach areas or park buildings. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement. Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.
- 9034:Hunting The discharge and carrying of firearms is permitted in this park for the purposes of hunting during open season. Please consult the BC Government Hunting and Trapping Regulations Synopsis for more information. Contact BC Parks at parkinfo@gov.bc.ca with any specific questions.
Facilities
- 9034:Campfires No firewood available for purchase in the park, but you can bring your own wood. Please bring a portable stove for cooking. You can conserve firewood and air quality by keeping your campfire small.To preserve vegetation and ground cover, please don’t gather firewood from the area around your campsite or elsewhere in the park. Dead wood is an important habitat element for many plants and animals and it adds organic matter to the soil.
Location
53.48763, -120.88025 · Robson
