Mount Edziza Volcanic Complex: Remote Wilderness Hiking in Northern British Columbia

Why Visit Mount Edziza Volcanic Complex

The Mount Edziza volcanic complex forms a vast shield volcano and surrounding plateau in the Tahltan Highland of northern British Columbia. Its dramatic landscape of black basalt flows, red cinder cones, and ice-scoured valleys offers hikers a rare chance to walk across recent volcanic terrain far from roads or crowds.

What to See and Do

Experienced backpackers tackle multi-day routes across the plateau, visiting landmarks such as the summit crater of Mount Edziza, the striking cone of Coffee Crater, and the colorful mineral springs at Kakiddi Creek. The area also contains several alpine lakes ideal for fishing and wildlife viewing, including caribou, mountain goats, and grizzly bears. Photography of lava tubes and obsidian deposits provides another draw for visitors who reach the more remote sections.

Recommended Activities

• Backcountry hiking on unmarked volcanic terrain
• Wildlife observation from safe distances
• Photography of cinder cones and lava flows
• Camping beside high-elevation tarns

How to Get There

Access begins with travel to the small community of Telegraph Creek or Dease Lake. From these points, visitors arrange floatplane charters to landing sites on Buckley Lake or Mowdade Lake inside the park boundary. Some hardy travelers reach trailheads via rough mining roads, though these require high-clearance vehicles and local knowledge of current conditions.

Best Time to Visit

July through early September offers the longest snow-free window and most stable weather for extended trips. Earlier or later visits are possible but demand winter camping skills and awareness of rapidly changing conditions on the open plateau.

Nearby Places Worth Exploring

The Stikine River canyon lies to the west, while the community of Telegraph Creek provides a historic gateway with hot springs and river access. Further south, the Spatsizi Plateau offers additional wilderness hiking opportunities for those extending their northern British Columbia journey.