Our day trip took us to Chilliwack Lake, a favourite for lake anglers in search of Dolly Varden, Kokanee and Rainbow trout. The lake is located in
Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park - 9,258 hectares of awesome in the upper Chilliwack River Valley! The area features old-growth forest, amazing mountain ridges, lakes, rivers and countless opportunities for those interested in exploring the outdoors. The Chilliwack River Ecological Reserve is located within the provincial park boundaries. This site and the old-growth forest it protects has been selected for a scientific research study on tree genetics. The park also feature 146 front country campsites and numerous back country camping opportunities at Greendrop, Lindeman, Flora and Radium Lakes.
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| The majestic "Doug" stands proudly |
We arrived early, attempting to get a head start on both the winds and the boat ramp chaos. The ramp at Chilliwack Lake is quite small and tricky for launching power-boats, but absolutely perfect for kayaks! We chatted briefly with a few fishermen at the boat launch and listened intently to their tales of wow. They had been at the lake for the entire weekend and had not yet caught a single fish. We wished them luck for the day and then began our paddle down the lake to the estuary.
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| Boat launch at Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park |
We stuck close to the shoreline as we circumnavigated the lake, taking in the sights and sounds of the forest. The scenery was breathtaking and we barely spoke a word as paddled along in silence taking it all in.
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| View towards the estuary |
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| Snow still visible on the upper ridges |
We found a secluded sandy beach for lunch and enjoyed a picnic.
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| Perfect picnic pull-out |
We chuckled as we passed a rope swing and diving board that Mother Nature had inspired. Some enterprising vacationers had braved a swim in the cold lake waters.
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| Rope Swing - how did they hang that rope? |
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| Diving Board |
There were several folk out fishing and all shared their stories as we paddled by...the fish just weren't biting. We soon discovered, that the fish were getting the last laugh. As we neared the estuary, we found ourselves in the middle of huge school of fish. Their vibrant crimson colour sparkled in the sun as they jumped. The water was literally boiling as the fish swam all around us. It felt like we could just put our hands in the water and pull up dinner. We lingered in the area for a long time, mesmerized by the fish just inches below our boats. The kayaks did not appear to bother them in the least and they almost appeared to be daring us to catch them.
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| Our attempt at photographing the fish jumping |
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| What lies beneath..... |
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| Schools of fish dare us to catch them! |
We later learned that
Kokanee are sockeye salmon that spend their entire lives in fresh water - land locked salmon. It was a highlight of the day to observe the fish and I must confess we giggled a little bit thinking of all the fishermen trolling out in the middle of the lake, while the fish were all hanging out down at the estuary. I would suggest that the fish won the day! Maybe it is important to stay in school! (GROAN!)
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| Return to the boat launch |
Giggle of the day:
It was another great day for nature viewing, but as we rounded the bend on our return trip we were treated to an unexpected "full-moon rising." A couple of hikers had trekked in to the lake and found what they thought was a secluded section of sandy beach. In the spirit of getting back to nature, they had discarded their clothing and were enjoying their time in the sun. I am not sure who was more surprised - the naked sunbathers or Rob and I as we paddled by.....of course, we wished them a good day!
Map and Route Tips:
Chilliwack Lake is a large lake and very cold. Be sure to start your trip early in the morning, as strong afternoon winds are the norm and can make your paddle back quite hazardous.
#kayak #nature #explorebc #discoveroutdoors
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