Burns Lake
Rainbow over lake, Bradley J.D. Bell photo
Burns Lake (population: 2,726) is a small community with much to offer in the way of beautiful scenery and choice of summer and winter outdoor activities.
Fishing, hiking, mountain biking, rock hounding, boating, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and guide outfitting are just a few examples. The community hosts numerous colourful festivals and celebrations year-round.
The village is located at the heart of the Lakes District in the centre of the province, an area boasting 4,828km/3,000mi of lake shoreline. It's surrounded by nature, including some of BC's largest freshwater lakes, such as Babine Lake north of town.
Wildlife (including moose, bears and deer) roam the land freely, while cattle and horses live on the many ranches in the southern part of town.
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About Town
Burns Lake has two distinct geographical areas. One section of town is located north of Francois Lake near Hwy 16. The other section is south of the Lake. The northside has most of the shops and services, while the southside is mostly made up of open ranches. Residents live in both areas, though the southside has more of a laid-back reputation. There's been both UFO and Sasquatch sightings in the southside too.
Travel between the two by driving around the lake, which takes a few hours depending on the route and destination, or taking the free 20-minute Francois Lake ferry ride.
Amenities
Amenities include various accommodations, restaurants, and gas stations as well as grocery, retail and hardware stores. The town also offers a hospital, library with internet, laundromat, community college campus and several sports facilities such as an arena, golf course, curling rink, and bowling lanes. Many visitors coming to the area for a few nights stay at one of the many wilderness lodges, lake cabins or rustic campsites spread throughout the southside.
Culture and History
Burns Lake was founded as a result of Grand Trunk Railway workers that settled here once their jobs were finished. Since the town's beginnings, locals have had to be self-sufficient and, at the same time, generous with each other. That pioneer spirit still exists here and the people are diverse but connected.
Where to Begin
For directions and more information about Burns Lake and local activities, drop by the Burns Lake Visitor Centre on Hwy 16, in the heart of downtown
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