December 23, 2008 | Tips from Travellers >
Merritt, Camping
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One of 2 lakes in Kentucky-Alleyne Provincial Park, Alleyne lake is about 40 km. from Merritt, just southeast of Aspen Grove. The lake is a stunning turquoise colour that changes with the light This is mainly due to the mineral content and depth. The lakes were created when huge chunks of ice fell from retreating glaciers and sunk in the surrounding mud. The beautiful white sand on the shore is seashells ground up by the glaciers. Be careful near the water's edge,as this sand is like quicksand. Many intact seashells can be found near shore. The calcium supports a large population of gammarus shrimp which impart a tastiness to the 2 to 3 kg. rainbow trout . The smaller potholes between the 2 lakes are stocked with trout and fishing in these kettles is restricted to young people. The mule deer population is numerous and they have little fear of humans. They regularly browse throug the campground, and caution should be used as the does with fawns can be agressive and territorial. Osprey fish the lakes regularly, and often land to rest in the old nest just out of sight from the campground. The park staff are excellent people, and keep the pit toilets very clean.i have been here twice and will return again in may when the ice is gone and the water is re-oxygenated.