Buttle Lake: Wilderness Boating and Hiking in Strathcona Provincial Park

Why Buttle Lake Draws Visitors

Buttle Lake sits in a deep glacial valley inside Strathcona Provincial Park, the oldest park in British Columbia. Its 28-kilometre length is framed by peaks of the Vancouver Island Ranges, giving paddlers and hikers constant views of snow-streaked ridges and old-growth forest. The lake’s clear, cold water supports healthy populations of cutthroat and rainbow trout, while the surrounding park protects one of the largest intact temperate rainforest ecosystems on the island.

Getting There

Most travellers reach Buttle Lake by driving the gravel Buttle Lake Road, which leaves Highway 19 near Campbell River and climbs 48 kilometres into the park. The route passes through second-growth forest before entering the park boundary; high-clearance vehicles handle the surface comfortably, though passenger cars manage it in dry conditions. No public transit serves the lake, so visitors arrive by private vehicle or organised park shuttle from the coast.

Things to Do

Boating and Fishing

Motorboats, kayaks and canoes launch from several day-use sites along the western shore. Anglers target trout near creek mouths, especially in early morning. Because the lake is long and narrow, winds can rise quickly; boaters stay close to shore or check conditions before heading south toward the Myra Falls area.

Hiking and Trails

The Lake Trail follows the western shoreline for 20 kilometres, offering flat walking with frequent water views. Side trails climb to Crest Mountain and Marble Meadows, where alpine wildflowers bloom in late summer. Shorter loops around the northern end suit families and provide easy access to swimming beaches.

Camping

Front-country campgrounds sit at Buttle Lake and nearby Ralph River, each with picnic tables, fire rings and access to drinking water. Backcountry camping is permitted at designated sites along the Lake Trail; visitors must pack out all waste and follow park bear-aware practices.

Best Time to Visit

July through September brings the most reliable weather and open roads. Spring runoff can make the lake level high and the access road muddy until mid-June. October offers quieter trails and colourful vine-maple foliage but increases the chance of early snow on surrounding peaks.

Nearby Attractions

Within the same park, visitors combine a lake stay with a drive to the spectacular Della Falls trailhead or a short hike to the old-growth boardwalk at Forbidden Plateau. Campbell River, 45 minutes north, supplies fuel, groceries and equipment rentals.