Around Canim Lake, lakeshores, waterfall views, and hiking trails offer a range of ways to enjoy a stay. Canim Lake is 37 kilometres long and is one of the larger lakes in the Cariboo. This gives you a choice of different focuses when planning: time by the water or outings to viewpoints and waterfalls.

Lakeshore, Beach, and Scenery

On the shore of Canim Lake is the six-hectare Canim Beach Park. From there, you can look across the lake to the rising Quesnel Highlands and the Cariboo Mountains. Mule deer, coyotes, beavers, river otters, black bears, waterfowl, hawks, and songbirds may be found around the park.

The gravel beach at Canim Beach is considered a place to cool off and swim on hot summer days. The lakebed drops off steeply from the shore, and there are no lifeguards on duty. Keep these conditions in mind when deciding whether to swim.

Waterfalls and Hiking Trails

Canim Falls is at the eastern end of Canim Lake in Wells Gray Park. Viewpoints at the falls offer excellent views of the waterfalls. Short, easy trails lead to Canim Falls and Mahood Falls; Canim Falls can be reached on foot from the road in less than 30 minutes.

Another hiking option in the area is the Hendrix Falls Low Mobility Trail. It is about 350 metres long and passes through a forested area to a viewpoint overlooking the waterfalls. Check current trail conditions before setting out. For more challenging hikes, consider trails to Whale Lake.

Water Activities and Seasonal Options

Canim Lake is popular for fishing, paddling, swimming, picnicking, and waterskiing. Other nearby lakes are also considered popular fishing spots. Fishing requires the applicable licence.

Explore the shoreline by canoe, motorboat, or sailboat. Private resorts in the area may offer motorboats, canoes, kayaks, and paddlewheel boats for rent. Check directly with the relevant business to find out whether rentals are available.

The season also changes the focus of activities: in summer, the Canim Lake area offers opportunities for hiking, while winter brings backcountry skiing. The waterfall trails provide another option for travellers who want to reach viewpoints on foot.

Getting There and Places to Stay

For orientation around the lakeshore: Canim Beach Park is about 43 kilometres northeast of 100 Mile House and can be reached via Canim Lake Road from Highway 97. Road conditions can vary, so check them before you travel.

Several resorts in the Canim Lake area offer accommodation and a range of amenities. If you want to make the lake the focus of your stay, a lakeside location can be a helpful factor in your choice. Check specific offerings and current availability directly with the relevant resort.

Discover more destinations: Quesnel, Lone Butte, Puntzi Lake, Williams Lake, Riske Creek, Lac La Hache, Bridge Lake, Cariboo F.

For the broader travel overview: Cariboo.