Land of Hidden Waters

Discover BC’s best-kept freshwater secrets in the Land of Hidden Waters, surrounding BC’s famed “Fishing Highway” (Highway 24). Here, you’ll find endless activities, beautiful lakeside lodging, camping sites that will amaze you, and year-round recreation opportunities. The lakes, though “hidden,” are ready to be explored!

This large region begins at the Highway 97/Highway 24 junction near 93 Mile House and stretches east to Highway 5 in Little Fort. It also extends north past 100 Mile House on Highway 97, then northeast along Canim-Hendrix Lake Road to reach Canim Lake, and continues farther north into the Cariboo Mountains to Crooked Lake. The southern boundary includes Loon Lake, near Clinton and 70 Mile House along Highway 97.

Take to hiking trails to discover secluded paths leading to serene lakes, or embark on a guided tour to uncover places few visitors get to see. After a day full of adventure, return to your cozy cabin, lodge, or campsite to relax and recharge. When you see these waters, you’ll understand what makes them special.

Fishing Highway (Highway 24): A Legendary Route

Greenlee Lake | Fly Lords/Fishing BC

Highway 24, also known as BC’s “Fishing Highway,” is a 97-km route that winds across the Cariboo Plateau, offering access to over 100 pristine lakes for fishing and water sports in the Land of Hidden Waters. From Kokanee and Rainbow trout to Lake and Brook trout, the fishing here is unmatched. As the locals say, “fish a lake a day, for every day you stay.”

The area also offers plenty of outdoor activities beyond fishing, including hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and ATV adventures. In winter, you can explore the natural ice caves near Bridge Lake; hidden gems that form when conditions are just right and offer a magical, otherworldly experience. Whether you’re looking to catch the perfect fish or simply enjoy the natural beauty, Highway 24 is an adventurer’s dream. From its stunning scenery and wildlife to outdoor activities and tranquil lakes, this area offers a truly unforgettable experience.

The Interlakes: A Fishing Paradise

Canim Lake | Jonny Bierman

The Interlakes District, located between 100 Mile House on BC Highway 97 and Little Fort on the North Thompson River, is a key stop for anglers in the Land of Hidden Waters. Known for its beautiful lakes, the area includes communities like Bridge Lake and Lac des Roches. If you’re passing through, it’s the perfect place to restock and resupply while exploring some of BC’s best fishing lakes. With its scenic beauty and tranquil waters, the Interlakes is a peaceful haven for anyone looking to connect with nature.

Loon Lake & 70 Mile House: Gateway to Southern Waters

Evergreen Fishing Resort – Loon Lake, BC

The southern gateway to the Land of Hidden Waters begins at 70 Mile House, a historic roadhouse community that has welcomed travellers along the Cariboo Highway for over a century. This charming area serves as your launching point to explore the waters of Loon Lake and the surrounding chain of lesser-known gems.

Loon Lake stands out as one of the region’s most accessible yet rewarding fishing destinations, giving you excellent Rainbow and Lake trout fishing in a stunning mountain setting. The lake’s crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding hills, creating picture-perfect moments for photographers and nature lovers alike. Family-friendly resorts and campgrounds dot the shoreline, providing comfortable accommodations with direct lake access for fishing, swimming, and water sports.

Beyond Loon Lake, the 70 Mile House area opens up access to dozens of smaller lakes tucked away in the rolling hills and forests. These hidden waters offer solitude and some of the best fly fishing in BC, where you might spend an entire day without seeing another angler.

Canim Lake & Crooked Lake: Northern Wilderness Gems

South Point Resort – Canim Lake, BC

In the northern reaches of the Land of Hidden Waters, Canim Lake and Crooked Lake represent some of BC’s most spectacular wilderness fishing experiences. These massive bodies of water, surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks, offer a true escape into unspoiled nature.

Canim Lake, stretching over 37 kilometres in length, is renowned for its trophy-sized Lake trout and Kokanee salmon. The lake’s deep, cold waters provide a perfect habitat for these prized species, while its numerous bays and inlets offer endless exploration opportunities. Canim Lake Provincial Park protects much of the shoreline, providing excellent camping facilities and hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the lake and surrounding wilderness.

Crooked Lake, true to its name, winds through the landscape like a serpentine ribbon, creating countless secluded bays and fishing spots. This lake is particularly famous among fly fishermen for its challenging Rainbow trout that test even an experienced angler’s skills. The lake’s unique shape means you can often find solitude even during peak season, with hidden coves and channels waiting to be discovered.

There’s an old saying in this part of British Columbia: “fish [or paddle] a lake a day for every day you stay!” With hundreds of lakes, one-of-a-kind waterfront stays—from cozy cabins to RV sites—and activities in every season, BC’s Land of Hidden Waters is the perfect place to connect with nature in all its forms.