5 Northern BC Lakes Along Route 16 Perfect for Paddling

1. Seymour Lake, Smithers

Seymour Lake is a small municipal lake on the outskirts of Smithers. Its tucked-away deciduous-forest setting feels like “the cottage at the lake” with modest homes, colourful deck chairs, and cottonwood trees peppering the edge.

What the lake lacks in size it makes up for in its quaint rural setting, its beginner friendliness, and a peaceful, humble atmosphere. Rent a paddle board at Local Supply Co.; canoes and kayaks are available for rent at Aquabatics Smithers. Pack a lunch to go from Two Sisters Cafe, or create a charcuterie platter with help from The Sausage Factory. Grab a locally roasted coffee from Bugwood Coffee and head for the water.

Access to the lake is mostly private but there is a small area off the main road to park and launch. Practice your stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) skills while dodging the colonies of frogs and lily pads on the water’s surface. Visiting in fall is ideal for pops of colour between the evergreens.

While there are no camping options on Seymour Lake, nearby Tyee Lake Provincial Park, Glacierview RV Park & Cottages, and Aspen Bay Cabins on the shores of nearby Chapman Lake (also a wonderful location for paddling) offer camping and cabin rentals.

3. Meziadin Lake, Stewart

If you’re taking the offshoot headed north on Highway 37 and you’re looking for a place to chill on the water (literally, it’s surrounded by glaciers!), Meziadin Lake is your best bet. Two hours north from the village of Kitwanga—or 50 kilometres east of the mining town of Stewart near the Meziadin Junction—is Meziadin Lake Provincial Park with its lake and recreation area. Meziadin is a popular and scenic lake perfect to play on or to stay for the night, especially if you want to explore areas north of Highway 16. This lake is especially popular with the RV crowd given its near-junction location, but if you go during the shoulder seasons, it’s possible to have more space to yourself.

The roadways to and from are also known as prime viewing grounds for wildlife in transit (drivers, stay vigilant). It’s not uncommon to see grizzlies and black bears snacking on the side roads while travelling. There are also lots of opportunities in the vicinity to check out tributaries that feed the lake with its freezing cold water and act as freeways for much of the coastal salmon population.

5. Wainwright Basin, Prince Rupert

While technically a bay, Wainwright Basin offers a change from freshwater paddling. Slip into the salt and experience the deep range of tides around Prince Rupert. Bring your own water craft, rent from the locals, or book a tour with Outer Coast Outfitters to learn about sea life in the area. An inlet sheltered by land, the basin is a good choice for those wanting to experience ocean paddling without significant swell expertise. Connected to river ways and the Pacific, the water in the basin is brackish and carries characteristics of both river and ocean paddling. You’ll get to practice working with mini-currents and tide forecasting while being greeted by fresh and saltwater residents.

Look overboard for bright orange feathers or “sea pens” sprouting in shallow areas—a treat for anyone interested in unique marine life. Sunny days in Prince Rupert can be hard to come by, but if cutting through glassy ocean water under moody grey skies is what you’re after, this is paradise.

Finish your saltwater adventure with fresh seafood from Dolly’s Fish Market or locally-sourced sushi from Fukasaku. For lodging, nearby Cassiar Cannery offers ocean-side cabins, the Crest Hotel offers luxury accommodations with all the amenities, or, for accommodation in the heart of Cow Bay, stay at Eagle Bluff Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast.