Three provincial parks located in the Quesnel area provide great opportunities to get out and enjoy nature, whether camping over several nights, or hiking for the day. Visit one of the most exotic geological wonders in British Columbia at Pinnacles Provincial Park. Swim, water-ski and paddle the waters of Puntchesakut Lake Provincial Park, or view lush wilderness and abundant wildlife such as moose, deer, porcupine, coyotes and black beasr – at Ten Mile Lake Provincial Park. Quesnel's provincial parks combine heritage preservation, wilderness conservation, and endless outdoor adventure.
Pinnacles Provincial ParkPinnacles Provincial Park (128ha/36ac) is home to ancient sediment formations – hoodoos – fragile remnants of past volcanic activity that continue to weather and erode. Hike up a 2km/1.2mi well-maintained trail and view these impressive geological spires and the mighty Fraser River in the background. Pinnacles Provincial Park is a 10-minute drive along Pinnacles Road in West Quesnel, and is open year round.
Puntchesakut Lake Provincial Park Puntchesakut Lake Provincial Park (38ha/94ac) is a great location for outdoor lake-oriented seasonal activities. Explore the natural setting of rolling aspen forest, and 1200m/3937ft willow- and birch -lined shores. The lake supports year-round fishing, so cast a line for Rainbow trout or Rocky Mountain whitefish. In summer, bask in the sun on the park's sandy beach, swim in the lake's warm waters or skim along its surface in a canoe. Puntchesakut Lake Provincial Park is a half hour drive from Quesnel.
Ten Mile Lake Provincial Park Ten Mile Lake Provincial Park (260ha/642ac) located between the moist Quesnel Highlands and the dry Chilcotin Plateau, has a diverse natural environment supportive of various wildlife species – great for wilderness and wildlife viewing. Towering white spruce, douglas-fir, aspen, and Lodgepole pine with low dogwood and Saskatoon shrubs provide the perfect setting for camping. As well, the park features a number of campsite amenities, picnic tables, and a playground. Explore the abandoned Pacific Great Eastern Railway tracks, or stroll the 2km/1.2mi nature trail leading to a large beaver pond, lodge, and a series of beaver dams, and check out waterfowl nesting boxes placed along the pond's edge. Ten Mile Lake Provincial Park is fifteen minutes north of Quesnel on Highway 97. Drop into the Quesnel Visitor Centre for more information, maps, and local and provincial park listings.
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