MURTLE LAKE CANOEING TRIP (WELLS GRAY PROVINCIAL PARK)

MURTLE LAKE CANOEING TRIP (WELLS GRAY PROVINCIAL PARK)

This is the largest non-motorized lake in North America.

This will be done the best 5 or 6 days seen on the long range forecast probably determined the Wednesday before or thereabouts.

THIS IS DEFINITELY NOT A BEGINNER EVENT. DO NOT OVERESTIMATE YOUR ABILITIES PLEASE.

There is no need to RSVP "No", if you are not attending. We only need to know who IS attending. The "No" feature is there for people who need to change their RSVP

Went for a 7 day paddle here back in September 2016 exploring the West Arm mostly swearing to return and explore the North Arm mostly one day. This is the original posting from back in the day though I'm in the process of updating it somewhat. This will probably be a 5 day paddle this time. Six at the very most including the stunning Helmcken Falls everyone comes to see. I still have my canoe and am raring to use it. Hopefully others will join me again (:

Details:
This event is all about a variety of pursuits. First, and most obvious, is the canoeing aspect of this adventure, replete with a 2.5 km portage right at the start. Secondly, there is also one night of alpine backpacking to the Wavy Range and its Wavy Peak summit with a challenging scramble (see YouTube video link below). This will be another highlight of the trip. This night will be spent at high altitude bivouacking under the stars where no light pollution exists. Two other day hikes will also be on the itinerary: one to the McDougal Falls and the other to Central Peak. Also, the fishing for trout is remarkable, having seen a few YouTube's. So bring your trolling gear for those pan fries. The lake is fringed with sandy beaches all along our route for us to peruse with all kinds of swimming opportunities abounding in these crystal clear waters. Did I mention this is the largest non-motorized lake in North America. It has over 100 kilometers of shoreline to explore where the only sound is that of waves, wind and wildlife, not necessarily in that order. Last but not least are the famous waterfalls in this 4th largest BC Provincial Park. We will visit these on the final day as a topping on the cake; one of which is Helmcken Falls, the fourth highest in Canada. Here we can hike down this treacherous path to the base if we feel so inclined for some real adventure. Not recommended for inexperienced foot soldiers. On this trip gourmet food is highly encouraged as opposed to freeze dried as well as your favorite beverages. We will base camp twice possibly 3 times. There will be some down time for relaxation! In fact some of these itineraries could be optional.

NOTE: Canoes only for this event.

Also, obviously those with canoes get first dibs followed with experienced backpackers as a close second. The crews will be added afterwards. Eight or less will be will be the maximum number for this adventure into the Caribou Mountains of Well's Gray.

Paddle Our Wilderness
Bounded by ancient lava beds, Murtle Lake, is at the eastern end of Wells Gray Provincial Park (http://www.blueriverbc.ca/play/attractions/parks)and is the largest lake in North America that does not allow motorized watercraft. Camping or paddling along its rugged shores is a blissfully quiet experience. Drink it all in. Whether you set your compass north or west, there’s plenty of wilderness, peace, and quiet for everyone here.
Paddle north or west, exploring Murtle Lake the only way you can – by kayak or canoe. Experience the serenity of backcountry wilderness camping. Fall asleep in the shadow of fjord-like mountains on soft, sandy beaches. Hike the Wavy Range wildflower meadows, a kaleidoscope of colour at their peak. Watch moose migrate through marshy meadows. Marvel that you can be on Murtle Lake for days and never see or hear another soul. Experience true quiet, where the only sounds you’ll hear are the ones Mother Nature creates…the call of a loon, splashing trout, and the wind blowing through the trees.

Getting There is Half the Adventure
Remote, yet fairly easy to access, just getting to Murtle Lake is half the adventure. Turn off the Yellowhead Highway (BC Highway 5) at Saddle Mountain Lodge; go past the Blue River Campground (http://www.blueriverbc.ca/play) and head into the wilderness along a 27 km (16.7 mi) winding gravel road. Park your car. You’re not quite there yet. Hike the 2.5 km wheelchair accessible trail, initiated by Canadian legend, Rick Hansen, and you’ll arrive at Murtle Lagoon, the put-in point for your backcountry canoe, kayak and camping adventure.
Over 100 Kilometres of Get Away From it All
The more of Murtle Lake you see, the more there is to discover. Take a deep breath of the fresh air, feel the warm sun on your face, and take a moment to decide where you’ll explore above Murtle Lake’s water line. An easy 20-minute hike to Henrietta Lake, one of the most beautiful hikes in BC? A full-day trek through the Wavy Range; where postcard-like views unfold from the alpine? Or is it something in between, like McDougall Falls, a 5 km (3 mi) hike from Murtle’s Diamond Lagoon? Perhaps hunting for your name carved on the walls of the old prospector’s cabin before you embark on your hike. Or is it just a day visit with a 5 km (3 mi) walk to picnic at campsite # 1? You decide – with no outside distractions, you’ll find yourself grounded in the present, with nothing on your agenda, except exploring hundreds of kilometres of pure mountain wilderness.
Go Fish
Drag a spinner as you paddle, or spend the day fishing the creeks at the mouth of the lake, something is usually biting on Murtle Lake. Rainbow trout and Kokanee (landlocked sockeye) make fishing Murtle a tasty treat. Spend your day fishing and your nights savouring the catch – nothing tastes as good as fresh caught trout, swimming in butter from the frying pan onto your plate. New to fishing or to Murtle Lake? Just ask the Park Ranger patrolling the campsites; he’ll be happy to tell you where the big ones are biting.

Where Wild is Wild
Untamed, unspoiled, rugged and raw. Murtle Lake is pure Canadian wilderness and home to countless wild animals and even wilder weather!
Watch moose migrating the meadows beneath Murtle Glacier. Witness the magic of black bears and the occasional Grizzly ambling along distant shores. Be spellbound as eagles and osprey fly aerial acrobatics, fishing in the lake.
Canoeing, kayaking and camping at Murtle Lake means close, and sometimes personal, encounters with wildlife you won’t have anywhere else. Its wilderness setting also means mosquitoes in summer. While the number of hatches varies from week to week and year to year, you should come prepared. Lightweight clothing or netting to protect arms, legs and your head will go a long way toward your comfort.

Experience “real” weather.
Take an unscheduled nap during an afternoon rainstorm. Feel the rumble of thunder in gathering clouds. Sit back and watch one of Mother Nature’s great shows, when lightning illuminates the north arm sky. Let the Northern Lights dazzle you, out here, where the skies are wide open and free of any artificial light. Count stars from your tent flap, where they’re hanging so low, you want to reach out and pluck one straight out of the sky.

Resources
Here's an idea of what to expect for our trek up the Wavy Crest Trail https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxHWoLRn-94
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxHWoLRn-94
A trip report also for your perusal for about the same time of year. One week earlier to be exact. http://forums.clubtread.com/27-british-columbia/35393-murtle-lake-paddling-sep-4th-6th.html
Government Site: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/wg_murt/

REAL FOOD AND DRINK AFTERWARDS SOMEWHERE ANYWHERE :
Hopefully to find a local eating establishment in Blue River or Clearwater after our epic journey to replenish those zillions of calories spent and to just shoot the breeze and rehash before hitting the road back to civilization. Something I usually like to do (:

Safety:

While we will look out for each other on the hike please remember that you are ultimately responsible for your own safety so come prepared for the hike. Ensure you leave a trip plan with a responsible person, explaining your destination, the route you are taking, who is with you, and your return time.
It is the responsibility of everyone on the event to do their own research and come prepared. Do not expect the organizer to know everything about the hike, or that they are the leader or guide.

Carpooling:
It is suggested that passengers offer the driver $10.00 per hour of driving (includes mileage and vehicle wear & tear). This is a guideline, and the driver may charge more or less depending on the situation.

Disclaimer/Waiver
BC Hiking Community, is not a company, but an online community, run by its members. The Organizers are volunteers, not professional guides and their role is to coordinate the gathering of people at the appointed meeting place for the group to voluntarily take part in the organized Event.
It is expected that you will show up to events prepared (first aid, proper footwear, clothing, 10 essentials etc.) and that you will be physically able to take part in the event. Also, please be aware that risks are inherent in all of the outdoor type activities that we take part in and if you are injured or worse, BC Hiking Community, or your event organizer, cannot be held responsible/liable in any way. The success of each event depends on the cooperation & efforts of every member who participates. Although we always make an effort to look out for one another to the best of our ability, each of us is nevertheless responsible for our own safety and well-being during every event. By RSVP’ing "yes" for this event, you acknowledge and accept these terms.

More details to follow for those selected.