Lakelse Lake Wetlands Park covers 1,214 hectares at the south end of Lakelse Lake, about 18 kilometres south of Terrace and 40 kilometres north of Kitimat on Highway 37. BC Parks identifies Lakelse Lake as the largest warm-water lake in northwestern British Columbia.
The park can be reached by boat from Lakelse Lake or by hiking old logging roads.
Lakelse Lake Wetlands Park is a sensitive wetland and wildlife destination rather than a developed beach park. BC Parks says it contains internationally significant salmon spawning and rearing habitat, regionally important migratory and over-wintering waterfowl, and moose winter range.
Trumpeter swans over-winter in the wetlands, and grizzly bears frequent the area in spring and fall. Canoeists and kayakers may explore the wetlands from a small parking and launch area near the northeast corner of the park.
Visitors must protect the bog system. BC Parks warns that organic soils and dwarf shrubs are very susceptible to damage from vehicles and trampling, and that regrowth after damage is slow. Personal watercraft and motorized vessels should avoid Clearwater and Andalas creeks to prevent disturbing waterfowl and wildlife.
Plan around wetland paddling, salmon habitat awareness, trumpeter swan and waterfowl observation, moose and grizzly awareness, old logging-road hiking access, and careful low-impact photography.
The old logging roads are not maintained and can be narrow or overgrown. Close the metal gate after passing through. Fires and overnight camping are not allowed in the day-use area, and maps are for information only.
