Backcountry enthusiasts will soon be able to make reservations for two popular adventures in B.C. parks, the provincial government announced Wednesday.
Beginning this Monday, hikers wanting to explore Berg Lake Trail in Mount Robson Provincial Park or paddle the canoe circuit in Bowron Lake Provincial Park can reserve a spot for the 2021 season through Discover Camping.
The Berg Lake Trail boasts some of the best scenery in the province, providing views of waterfalls, turquoise-coloured lakes and massive glaciers. Gaining 800 metres of elevation in 23 kilometres, the trail is open year-round and can be reserved from June 12 to Sept. 30.
The Bowron Lake Canoe Circuit involves 116 kilometres of paddling across 10 lakes with several portages that are relatively flat. The entire trip takes six to 10 days to complete, depending on skill level. Those looking for a shorter trip can paddle the west side of the circuit, which takes two to four days to complete. The canoe circuit can be reserved from May 15 to Sept. 23.
Reservations for long weekends fill up fast for both adventures. Visitors need to be well prepared and self-sufficient due to the limited facilities in wilderness areas.
The system will begin accepting bookings for campsites in all BC Parks on Mon., March 8. People from out of province can begin using the system on July 8.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reservations for day-use facilities, including picnic shelters and halls, remain closed for the 2021 season and there will be limits on how many people can be in a campsite and restrictions on group site.
"We are all looking forward to another summer of camping and outdoor recreation in B.C., and while public health concerns and advice remain, we are asking people to pick a campground as close to home as possible to avoid long road trips and non-essential travel," environment minister George Heyman said in a statement.
Reservations can be made at: www.discovercamping.ca.
