Wapiti Lake Park
About this Park
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Wapiti Lake Park with its fast flowing rivers, crystal clear lakes and surrounding mountains provide outstanding scenic viewing, fishing and wilderness camping opportunities.
At Wapiti Lake visitors have the choice of tenting or using the backcountry cabin. Please keep this cabin clean and in good condition for the next visitor.
Safety information
- This is a mountainous wilderness area. Terrain is rugged and weather can change quickly. Expect minimal or no contact with people. Other than the shelter at Wapiti Lake, there are no facilities. Those venturing into this area should be experienced backpackers. Be prepared for an extended stay if necessary. Advise friends or relatives of your trip duration and destination.
Special notes
- Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs) are prohibited in this park. ORVs include ATVs, off-road motorcycles, snowmobiles and side-by-sides.
Location notes
Wapiti Lake Park is located about 60 km south of Tumbler Ridge in the upper portions of the Wapiti River drainage. It is accessed via the Ojay Main Road. Follow this road to kilometre 29 and turn right onto the 2500 road (at approximately 25 km) a road that leads to an old well site. The trail starts at the southwest corner of this site.
The trail is approximately 18 km and follows the north side of the Wapiti River and the shores of a few smaller lakes. A view of Wapiti Falls can be achieved by following a short 200 metre trail off the main trail at kilometre 7. Be sure to bring your camera, as the scenic views are plentiful.
Activities
- 8109:Hiking The Wapiti Onion Trail crosses through the park. This 30 km trail is located on the East slope of the Rocky Mountains and is open for hiking and horseback riding. The first 19 km of the trail to Wapiti Lake follows the north side of the Wapiti River and the shores of a few smaller lakes. Scenic views are plentiful, especially while along lakeshores. There is a short side trail (200 metres) to Wapiti Falls at 7 km. A reasonable goal would be to reach Wapiti Lake in day one. Backpacking time to Wapiti Lake is variable and depending on your level of experience allow six to nine hours for the one way trip to km 19.The trail from Wapiti Lake to Onion Lake ascends steeply into the alpine. The 2 km climb above Wapiti Lake has an elevation change of 1000 metres. Between 24 and 25 km there is a terrific view of both Wapiti Lake to the south and Onion Lake to the north. At this point the trail descends 500 metres to Onion Lake. Allow seven to 10 hours for the trip from Wapiti Lake to Onion Lake.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.
- 8109:Canoeing There are canoeing and kayaking opportunities at this park. Canoeing and kayaking opportunities exist on Wapiti Lake and along the Wapiti River. The river has rapids and waterfalls which should be portaged around. Prior to paddling down river have detailed maps and an excellent knowledge of all water hazards. The largest of the hazards to portage around is Wapiti Falls.
- 8109:Fishing There are fishing opportunities at this park. Bull Trout and Mountain Whitefish are present in Wapiti Lake. Bull trout are a species of special concern and as such have special regulations for fishing. For current information please refer to the BC Fishing Regulation synopsis.
- 8109:Wildlife viewing A viewpoint of Wapiti Falls can be accessed via a short 200 metre trail at km 7.
- 8109: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.
- 8109:Horseback riding Horseback riding is allowed in Wapiti Lake Park. Horses are permitted on the Wapiti Onion Trail. At km 19.2 an area in which horses can be tied has been established.
- 8109: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. ATVs are not permitted on the trails or within the park.
- 8109:Winter recreation Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities exist along the Wapiti Onion Trail.
Facilities
- 8109:Pit or flush toilets This park only has pit toilets, no flush toilets. A pit toilet is provided at the 19.2 km camping area.
- 8109:Campfires Campfires are permitted. Firewood and a fire ring are provided at the designated camping area and backcountry cabin located on the northwest side of Wapiti Lake. While campfires are allowed and campfire rings are provided at each campsite, we encourage visitors to conserve wood and protect the environment by minimizing the use of fire and using campstoves, instead.
Location
54.50943, -120.76218 · Peace
