The 55-mile (90-km) drive through Muncho Lake Provincial Park has a reputation of being the most scenic part of the Alaska Highway. It’s also one of the most informative. Roadside pullouts appear frequently. Interpretive displays not only provide details on wildlife and geological features but also indicate hiking trails. Accessing higher regions of the Rocky Mountains is easy from here. Pick a wash, any wash, and up you go.
Muncho Lake Provincial Park has two separate campgrounds situated on the shores of one of the loveliest big lakes anywhere. Muncho Lake displays a perpetually blue hue, the result of copper oxides leached from the bedrock. Strawberry Flats Campground (15 vehicle/tent sites) is located at the south end of the lake, while MacDonald Campground (15 vehicle/tent sites) sits roughly at the midpoint of the 7.5-mile-long (12-km) lake. There are small beaches at each location. The park is open from May to September and fees are collected during this time.
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Car-top boats can be launched at Strawberry; MacDonald has its own boat launch. The Terminal Range is on the west side of the lake, while the Sentinel Ranges, rising sharply above the campgrounds to the east, are near the northern limit of the Rockies. One of the best ways to appreciate them is to either get out on the lake in a boat or hike up into them from nearby trails. Beware the winds that rise on Muncho Lake and quickly whip up whitecaps. These same breezes will ensure that you wear a sweater on most days while camping here, even in the middle of summer.
Wilderness campsites are located along the west shore of Muncho Lake for those willing to make the crossing by boat. Hwy 97 follows the east side of Muncho Lake and passes beside both campgrounds. Recreational activities include hiking and biking trails and fishing for lake trout, arctic grayling, bull trout, and whitefish.
Muncho Lake Provincial Park is located at the 650km mark of the Alaska Highway, 156 miles (250 km) west of Fort Nelson.
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