Catherine Creek Ecological Reserve is a BC Parks ecological reserve about 12 kilometres southeast of Hazelton. BC Parks says it was established to protect a forest stand of large-diameter old-growth western red cedar within the Hazelton variant of the Interior Cedar Hemlock moist cold subzone.
The reserve is listed in the Interior Cedar-Hemlock biogeoclimatic zone and the Cranberry Upland terrestrial ecosection.
Catherine Creek is a focused old-growth cedar protection site rather than a recreation park. BC Parks explains that ecological reserves protect special natural ecosystems and support research and education.
The reserve is open to the public for non-destructive activities such as hiking, nature observation, and photography. Its main appeal is careful observation of the old western red cedar stand and the moist Interior Cedar-Hemlock setting near Hazelton.
The reserve's Cranberry Upland setting adds useful ecological context for field study.
That context helps guide low-impact observation.
Rules are strict because ecological values come first. Consumptive activities such as hunting, fishing, camping, and foraging are prohibited, and motorized vehicles are not allowed. Research and educational activities require a permit.
Plan around quiet walking, old-growth cedar observation, forest photography, non-destructive natural history study, and education-focused visits. Keep the trip light and avoid disturbing trees, bark, soil, plants, wood, water, or research values.
Use official maps for general information only, not legal boundaries or navigation. Do not camp, hunt, fish, forage, or use motorized vehicles, and apply for a permit before research or education work.
