If you are traveling from the Northern end of British Columbia South through the Pine pass or in the opposing direction, there is a treasure of a lake that is nestled along the edges of the highway. Azouzetta Lake is a must stop location for so many amazing reasons.
Where is Azouzetta Lake in Pine Pass?
North of Prince George BC, by two hours driving time on Highway 97 and you reach the edge of the Pine Pass.
At each entrance to the pass a small northern industry town is nestled. On the southside is the township of Mackenzie, a small community that has relied on the forest industry. To the north is Chetwynd, which hugs the edges of the highway. Make sure to top up your fuel before entering the pass.
Once in the pass only a few kms north of Powder King Mountain Resort is a small spring fed mountain lake, Azouzetta. This lake is known for its all around season resort. It has cabins available for rent throughout the ski season and in the summer the campground is open for RVs and tenting.
Access to Azouzetta Lake
Public access to the lake is a half overgrown road from the parking lot in front of Azouzetta lake cafe.
There is also beautiful access to the lake through the campground, though only registered guests have this opportunity.
No other public access points are known as the lake is nestled beside Murry Ridge, CN train tracks, and steep slopes back up to the highway.
Paddling on Lake Azouzetta
West shore
Paddling up the western shore line of Azouzetta lake will take you past a few small rustic cabins. These tiny hidden gems are about as basic and beautiful as they come. About half way down the lake following along the west side is the home of a small waterfall, though in the peak of summer season it is nowhere to be found.
Leaning over the edge of the freshwater are paper birch trees who’s trunks remind you of sitting out over the ocean on a palm tree.
South End
At the far south end of the lake approximately 2.5 km away from the lake a small steam feeds out of the lake. This end of the lake is well protected and usually quite glassy.
East Shore
The east shore line of the lake meets Murray ridge and the edge of Pine Le Moray Provincial Park. Explore along the forested edge of the lake dipping in and out of shallow bays. Before making your way past the last long island one must take a moment to look around at the bottom below. Located close to the pin dropped on the map below is where the fresh water springs bubble up into the lake. If you look for bubbles you won't find them, check the bottom for what appears to be potholes.
North End
Along the Northern point of the lake lies the Azouzetta Lake Lodge and Campground.
This campground has a boat launch, 32 camp sites (non-serviced), outhouses, public beach, dog beach, and boat launch. Look over the campground easily in the link above.
Must Stops Off the Lake
The Azouzetta Lake Cafe
This one is first on the list for must stops due to the delicious fresh choices of baking at the cafe. I can not say enough good things about the donuts and cinnamon buns. This locally owned little cafe offers daily delicious specials.
Bijoux Falls
Just South of Powder King Mountain resort is Bijoux Falls. This beautiful waterfall is directly off the side of the highway with outhouses and picnic tables. Once you are done your paddle grab yourself a snack and head down to the falls to sit amongst the chirping birds and sounds of the rushing waters.
Whether you are just traveling through or planning on spending the night in the pine pass there are lots of great adventures. Plan to stop for a quick paddle and a bite to eat to connect to the rural Rockies of the Pine Pass.
Shop AQ Outdoors SUP Collection
Born to Board
"Like the water, be gentle and strong.
Be gentle enough to follow the natural paths of the earth,
and strong enough to rise up and reshape the world." -Brenda Peterson
AQ Outdoors Contact
Edmonton: (p) 780 463-4892 (e) info@aquabaticsedmonton.com
Calgary: (p) 403 288-9283 (e) info@aqoutdoors.com
