Buttle Lake Vancouver Island
A breathtaking alpine lake in Strathcona Park, offering emerald waters, majestic mountains, and access to stunning waterfalls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Buttle Lake Vancouver Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking alpine lake in Strathcona Park, offering emerald waters, majestic mountains, and access to stunning waterfalls.
"This is our Lake Louise in Banff's playground - a paddler's paradise with incredible mountain views!"
Pack Water Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Rocky shores make water shoes essential for comfortable swimming and exploring.
Download Offline Maps :iphone:
Cell service is unreliable, so ensure you have offline maps for navigation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Buttle Lake's Serene Waters
Various points along the lake
Experience the tranquil, emerald-hued waters surrounded by majestic mountains. Perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Lower Myra Falls
Southern tip of Buttle Lake
A short hike leads to this stunning waterfall with vibrant teal and emerald waters. A true hidden gem.
Scenic Gold River Highway
Access road to Buttle Lake
Enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas and potential wildlife sightings on this incredibly scenic drive.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Water Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Rocky shores make water shoes essential for comfortable swimming and exploring.
Download Offline Maps :iphone:
Cell service is unreliable, so ensure you have offline maps for navigation.
Fill Up on Gas :fuel_pump:
Gas stations are scarce; fill your tank in Campbell River before entering the park.
Paddleboard to Myra Falls? :kayak:
It's a long paddle to Myra Falls; consider it an adventure for experienced paddlers.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Water Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Rocky shores make water shoes essential for comfortable swimming and exploring.
Download Offline Maps :iphone:
Cell service is unreliable, so ensure you have offline maps for navigation.
Fill Up on Gas :fuel_pump:
Gas stations are scarce; fill your tank in Campbell River before entering the park.
Paddleboard to Myra Falls? :kayak:
It's a long paddle to Myra Falls; consider it an adventure for experienced paddlers.
Embrace the Disconnect :signal_strength:
No cell reception is a blessing for a true escape into nature.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Buttle Lake is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning natural beauty, often compared to iconic Canadian Rockies lakes. Visitors rave about the crystal-clear, emerald waters, majestic mountain backdrops, and the rewarding hike to Lower Myra Falls. It's a paddler's paradise and a great spot for swimming, though rocky shores necessitate water shoes.
"Absolutely beautiful lake to swim in. I recommend going from Auger point as it has the nicest view of the lake! Little rocky but nice warm water."
Mr Reviewer
"For Vancouver Islanders this is our Lake Louise n Banff playground. There are many day picnic and trails to explore. The lake in its length has many mountain view stops and wild life galore. This is a paddlers paradise with many launch points. Best to explore the south end and see Myra Falls as well!"
Mike M
"Absolutely stunning lake and park! Wish we could have stayed a few more days to check out more trails. We went to the famous Myra Falls! It is worth the drive and the hike to the falls. We had a wonderful time there."
Trish Sousa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Buttle Lake is located in Strathcona Provincial Park on Vancouver Island. From Campbell River, take Highway 28 West for about 30 minutes. The drive itself is scenic, with potential for wildlife sightings.
Yes, Buttle Lake is easily accessible by car via Highway 28 from Campbell River. There are several viewpoints and access points along the highway.
The drive along Gold River Highway (Highway 28) is considered one of the most scenic routes on Vancouver Island, offering stunning mountain views.
A standard vehicle is sufficient for reaching Buttle Lake and its main access points. The roads are generally well-maintained.
Buttle Lake is approximately an hour's drive from downtown Campbell River, making it a popular day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Strathcona Provincial Park, where Buttle Lake is located, typically has day-use fees. It's advisable to check the BC Parks website for current fees and to confirm if reservations are needed for camping or specific areas.
Buttle Lake and Strathcona Provincial Park are generally accessible year-round during daylight hours for day use. Campground hours may vary, so it's best to check BC Parks for specific details.
Yes, there are camping facilities available at Buttle Lake. It's a popular spot, so booking in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended.
Day-use fees may apply for certain areas within Strathcona Provincial Park. It's wise to have cash on hand or check the BC Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
Campsites at Buttle Lake can typically be booked online through the BC Parks reservation system. Popular sites fill up quickly, so plan ahead.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Buttle Lake is ideal for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, trout fishing, and exploring nearby hiking trails. The lake's stillness makes it a paddler's paradise.+1
Yes, Buttle Lake is beautiful for swimming, especially during the hot summer days. The water can be rocky, so water shoes are recommended.
Absolutely! Strathcona Provincial Park offers numerous hiking trails for all skill levels, including the popular hike to Lower Myra Falls.
Trout fishing is a popular activity at Buttle Lake. Ensure you have the necessary fishing licenses and are aware of any regulations.
Visitors have reported seeing bears and other wildlife along the highway and in the park. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wild animals.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for viewpoints along the highway, especially during golden hour for stunning lake reflections.
The waterfall at Lower Myra Falls is also a must-capture.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides magical lighting for capturing the lake's beauty and mountain reflections.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake scenery. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. Don't forget a tripod for low-light shots.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Be mindful of wildlife and avoid disturbing the natural environment. Drone usage may be restricted, so check park regulations.
The combination of the crystal-clear, often still, emerald waters, the dramatic surrounding mountains, and the picturesque Lower Myra Falls creates a stunning photographic landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that cell service is minimal, which can be a blessing for unplugging with the family. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and ensure you have enough gas before arriving. The scenic drive itself can be an adventure, with opportunities to spot wildlife, keeping younger travelers entertained.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on free activities like swimming, hiking, and enjoying the scenic drives. The beauty of Buttle Lake is its natural splendor, which doesn't require an expensive ticket. Remember to fill up on gas and groceries in Campbell River to avoid higher prices closer to the park.
💑 Couples Retreat
The drive along Gold River Highway provides breathtaking views perfect for shared moments.Consider camping for an immersive experience under the stars, or visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and a more intimate atmosphere. The quiet stillness of the lake and the majestic mountain backdrop create a truly magical setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lower Myra Falls
The trail is generally considered moderate, making it accessible for most visitors. The payoff is a breathtaking waterfall with unique emerald and teal-colored waters, a sight that many travelers find well worth the effort.While it's possible to paddleboard towards the falls from Buttle Lake, it's a significant undertaking due to the lake's length. Most visitors opt for the hike. Remember to wear sturdy footwear, as the trail can be uneven, and bring water. The vibrant colors of the falls are particularly striking on a sunny day, so plan your visit accordingly if photography is a priority.
Paddling Paradise: Kayaking and Paddleboarding
+2 The lake's vastness allows for exploration, with numerous launch points scattered along its shores. Many visitors enjoy discovering secluded coves and enjoying the serene environment away from the main access points.For those seeking a unique perspective, paddling offers a chance to get closer to the natural beauty of Strathcona Provincial Park. The stillness of the water often creates mirror-like reflections of the surrounding mountains, providing incredible photographic opportunities.
While paddling to Lower Myra Falls is possible, it's a long journey and best suited for experienced paddlers with ample time.Wildlife Encounters and Safety
While cell service is limited, the campgrounds are often populated enough to feel secure. However, it's always wise to be prepared and aware of your surroundings. Familiarize yourself with bear safety protocols if you plan on hiking or spending extended time in the backcountry. Enjoy the natural beauty responsibly and respect the wildlife that calls this area home.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit