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WHERE EVERYTHING’S WILD: NORTH EAST BC
A crash course on who and where to feel the magic of North East BC.
Seeking opportunities to connect with the landscape is often seen as society's current version of escapism. In the region defined as Northeast BC, the landscape engulfs you - no need to seek wild, you’re in it. The endless peaks and valleys often confine their secrets making the allure to explore stronger.
After a few weeks of submerging myself in its bountiful beauty, I was able to connect not only with the landscape, but also with those who choose to live in this encapsulating beauty and, well, they are exactly that too - raw, beautiful, connective, curious, resilient and to my benefit - welcoming. Sharing their wealth in the form of knowledge and excitement to share what they love was so welcomely contagious.
Here’s who I met, where I went and the Xtratuf’s that came with.
PEAK WYLD CO
More than a friendly face, more than a hired guide, Jocelyn, owner of Peak Wyld, knows the Northern Rockies Intimately and she’s passionate about you feeling the same. From knowing each little nook and cranny to guided multi-day hiking trips to coordinating a float plane to fish and everything in between, Jocelyn can make it happen without friction. She took our crew under her wing and sincerely provided the sampler pack of all things North Rockies. Remember how I said this place is pretty wild? Well, that also implies that the wildlife is in abundance and Jocelyn is no stranger when it comes to proper protocol. From Bison viewing to spotting bears from a distance and critters in between she’ll ensure you're safe so you can just absorb the magic of the wild. An upbringing in the area and years of guiding and hunting make her a gracious and approachable expert and character of the north.
HIGH COUNTRY EXPEDITIONS
As a visitor to these lands, I feel the utmost respect for what these lands mean to the many indigenous people who have cared for them for centuries and there is absolutely no better person to learn about their history than Brad Sorell, owner and operator of High Country Expeditions, Moose Lake. Brad is a Kaska Den man and his family has cared for these lands for centuries. With a deep history and a living presence, the family has stories, structures, trails and so much love for the Toad River area and beyond. Spending the day with Brad exploring via ATV to visit iconic views, and historical landmarks and enjoy a home-cooked meal was so insightful. The only indigenous tourism operator in the region, High Country Expeditions is a seriously special experience for connecting, exploring, and learning about the North Rockies.
TOAD RIVER LODGE
While we didn’t stay here, we frequented the Toad River Lodge for gas, coffee and gooey fresh cinnamon buns. I’ve never bought so many sweaters from a gas station before, big fan, can’t not mention this gem of a stop! Cute cabins, and close access to High Country Expeditions all situated conveniently off the Alaskan Highway on a picturesque lake.
LIARD HOT SPRINGS
Is there anything better after a big adventure or to break up a week of activity? I think not. The greater Laird River area is notorious for herds of wild Bison, moose and caribou. A jaunt to soak in the natural springs is not without excitement on the approach, even on the boardwalk into the springs you wander through moose territory. Don’t let the zen switch off your wilderness etiquette as you approach the Laird Hot Springs, but boy-oh-boy do enjoy the scenery of the soak and explore the meandering streams that feed into the springs.
WILDLIFE
Bison, Caribou, Stone Sheep, Grizzlies, Black Bears, Moose, Deer, Fish, Cougars and so much more - I can’t state enough how sincerely wild the North Rockies is. And that’s what I love about it. Nature is thriving. It’s an honor to get a glimpse into a seemingly untouched landscape. Education, approach, and due diligence are what will keep it wild for centuries to come. Hiring a guide and reading up on how to travel and move through these wild areas with a healthy presence of wildlife is a key ingredient before your arrival.
NORTH ROCKIES LODGE, MUNCHO LAKE
It's where we called home. Decadent dinners, camo hats, float planes, mountain bikes, canoes and kind staff were all at our fingertips. The North Rockies Lodge has every creature comfort we craved while on holiday, including a sauna, along with access to two generations of local knowledge from the Schildknecht family who started the lodge and continues to grow the offerings at Muncho. A trip highlight included a float plane trip to one of their cabins on an even more remote lake abundant with fish. We spent the afternoon fishing, munching, canoeing and wildlife viewing. It would be easy to call this little oasis home for a few days, which is exactly what it’s intended for - off-grid family or friend gatherings. Muncho Lake is a Provincial Park that spans beyond the water's edge and offers formal hiking trails that are well worth the effort like Boulder Canyon, my personal favorite.
STONE MOUNTAIN & NORTHERN ROCKY MOUNTAINS PROVINCIAL PARK
Undoubtedly the epicentre of hiking trails and opportunities. The parks border each other near the scenic Summit Lake which also serves as the perfect basecamp for adventure. Hiking trails in all directions that bring you to the doorstep of potential. Yes, all the trails have destinations, but there’s always more to see for the savvy hiker. The lake itself offers rich exploration via paddle board or canoe and the views from any elevation band will make your jaw drop.
XTRATUF’S FOR THE TRIP
And the tufs’ for the trip?! 15" Legacy for boat and plane loading, dock hopping, general lake shenanigans, ATV cruising and shore fishing. Homer Slip On for lodge vibes, cabin life and sometimes for a rare passenger princess moment. Riptides for paddle boarding and post-sauna cold dipping. And of course, Deck Boots for general every day.
RESOURCES
Serious about visiting this absolute gem of a place? Whether doing the whole drive to Alaska Route or popping into the region via Fort Nelson BC, here are a few resources to get the adventure wheels spinning.
How to spend five days in the Northern Rockies
Peace River Region, Alaska Highway Route