On a hot summer day, head off to one of Terrace’s beaches or lakes and cool off with a refreshing dip in the water. Lakelse Lake Provincial Park, located a 10 minute drive south of Terrace, has three popular picnic areas and beaches (Gruchy’s Beach, Lakelse Lake Picnic Site, and Furlong Bay Campground). Smaller lakes, such as Findley Lake just north of town offers a more intimate setting. If your style is bit more rustic and private, take the short trek to Hai Lake.
Lakelse Lake Provincial Park
Located about 15 km south of Terrace on Highway 37, this beautiful area is surrounded by the Kitimat Mountain Range. Sandy beaches, swimming, and water sports are some of the attractions this park has to offer. A swimming area is roped off at both Furlong Bay and the Lakelse Picnic Site. The word “Lakelse” comes from the Tsimshian language meaning “fresh water mussel”, for the mollusk that is found on the bottom of both Lakelse Lake and Lakelse River. All BC Provincial Parks are open from mid May to late August.
The park comprises three separate sites:
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Gruchy’s Beach
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Lakelse Lake Picnic Site
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Furlong Bay Campground
Kalum Lake
Kalum Lake is easily accessed from the Kitsumkalum Provincial Park campground, and also offers some excellent paddling opportunities. The sandy shoreline hugs the lake to the west of the campground and is a great beach for swimming.
Lost Lake
Lost Lake is a local favourite as it's close to town, warm and has a dock. People often fish here, ice skate and swim.
Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Provincial Park - Lava Lake
Lava Lake is located approximately 80km outside of Terrace towards the Nass Valley. The lake is a popular place to take a dip or go canoeing.
Nass Valley Hot Springs
The Nass Valley Hotsprings is a magical place to relax and rejuvinate after a long day travelling around the Nass Valley.
Hai Lake
For a more rustic and secluded swimming experience, check out Hai Lake. Access to Hai Lake is via Beam Station Road off of Queensway Drive. The South Thunderbird Road leading up to the lake is not regularly maintained so it may be necessary to park and walk from Beam Station Road. A moderate 1 km hike through an old growth reserve brings you to a remote lake with a small rustic campsite. There are also fishing opportunities at Hai Lake.
Onion Lake
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Clearwater Lake
For another more remote swimming experience, check out Clearwater Lakes, located about a half an hour south from Terrace off Hwy 37 on the way to Kitimat. After a moderate 6 km hike, enjoy a rewarding cool dip in Clearwater Lakes – you deserve it!