Quesnel Lake: British Columbia's Fjordland Jewel
Explore Quesnel Lake: the world's deepest fjord lake, offering pristine waters, stunning scenery, and outdoor adventures in British Columbia's Cariboo region.
Quesnel Lake, a glacial lake in British Columbia's Cariboo region, is a stunning testament to nature's power and beauty. Claimed to be the deepest fjord lake globally and the deepest lake in British Columbia, its icy depths plunge to a maximum of 511 meters. The lake stretches impressively, reaching 100 kilometers from the town of Likely to the end of its East Arm and extending 48 kilometers up its North Arm. Formed between 160,000 and 140,000 years ago through a combination of glacial and volcanic activity, Quesnel Lake boasts a dramatic landscape. As glaciers melted, volcanoes erupted, shaping the valley and preventing it from filling with volcanic debris. The lake is fed by the Quesnel River and surrounded by the Cariboo Mountains, featuring ancient cedar rainforests, sandy beaches, and fjord-like rock walls. Quesnel Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. During the summer, visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and swimming in the clear waters. Fishing is a popular activity, with the lake supporting a large population of mature rainbow trout and a significant portion of British Columbia's sockeye salmon. In the winter, the lake transforms into a serene destination for ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The lake's history is intertwined with the Cariboo Gold Rush, serving as a major transportation route for miners and supplies. Today, the nearby towns of Likely and Horsefly provide access points for exploring the lake and surrounding wilderness. Quesnel Lake offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination in British Columbia.
Local tips
- Visit between early July and mid-August for the warmest temperatures and ideal conditions for water activities.
- Bring your fishing gear! Quesnel Lake is renowned for its trophy-sized rainbow trout and abundant sockeye salmon.
- Explore the lake by boat to discover hidden beaches, secluded coves, and stunning fjord-like rock formations.
- In winter, try ice fishing or snowshoeing for a unique perspective of the lake's serene beauty.
- Check out nearby provincial parks like Bowron Lake and Cariboo Mountains for additional hiking and outdoor adventures.
A brief summary to Quesnel Lake
- Manitoba, CA
Getting There
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Driving
To reach Quesnel Lake, start from Highway 97 at 150 Mile House and turn east onto Horsefly Road. For the western arm and the town of Likely, continue to the intersection of paved roads and turn left onto Likely Road, a total of 85 km from 150 Mile House. For the southern shores and the village of Horsefly, stay on Horsefly Road for 59 km. From Horsefly, turn right at Clarke's Store to cross the Horsefly River for access to the southern edge of the lake. Note that access roads may be gravel and can be steep in places. Parking is generally free at public access points and recreation sites. Be aware that some access roads are narrow and may not be suitable for large vehicles.
