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Advisories

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Hiking

The number of wilderness trails in the protected area is limited. The trails are unmarked and require familiarity with the area as well as map and compass skills.

The White Lake Trail begins on the Nature Trust property south of the lake. There is a gravel pullout off Fairview-White Lake Road with parking for a limited number of vehicles. An information shelter is at this site. The trail passes through a small grove of aspen as it heads southeast into the park following a chain of alkali ponds. The small pass runs between rock bluffs to the north and a treed ridge to the south and overlooks Mahoney Lake and the rugged, rocky terrain of the northern section of the protected area. 

The trail winds its way down to Mahoney Lake crossing a dam and entering open Ponderosa pine forest. Another small pond is passed and the trail becomes a dirt road. A branch of the road veers north and travels diagonally through the park roughly following Kearns Creek. This is a much longer route that should not be attempted unless prepared for a full day of hiking through dry, rugged terrain. 

The trail follows the western shore of Mahoney Lake and comes out at Green Lake Road on either end of the lake. Allow two hours to reach the gate and parking at the north end of Mahoney Lake. For a longer hike, the trail continues across Green Lake Road south of Mahoney Lake to the top of Mt. Keogan.

Wildlife viewing

Bird watching is a popular activity in the protected area, due largely to the presence of so many rare species. Highlights include the long-billed curlew, white-headed woodpecker, and yellow-breasted chat. Popular sites are Kearns Creek, Mahoney Lake, Rattlesnake Lake and McIntyre Bluff.

Pets on leash

Pets and domestic animals must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed in beach areas or park buildings. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement. Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.

Cycling

Cycling is permitted. Recreational mountain bikes are allowed on designated roadways. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.

For details on e-biking within White Lake Grasslands Protected Area, see the e-biking section.

E-Biking

Please note that bicycles with electric assist motors (e-bikes) are permitted on signed or designated trails within White Lake Grasslands Protected Area, provided they meet the definitions and criteria for e-bike use as outlined in the BC Parks cycling guidelines.

Horseback riding

Horses and horseback riding are permitted. The open pine forest and grasslands are great for riding, though there are few designated trails.

Hunting

The majority of the protected area is open to hunting as listed in the BC Hunting & Trapping Regulations Synopsis. The exceptions are the Seacrest Toboggan Hill and the Boyscout Camp. There is no motorized access in the protected area, Horses may be used. Access to much of the protected area is through private land.

Anyone hunting in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence. Check the BC Hunting Regulations for seasons and closures.

Winter recreation

The southernmost portion of the park, on Seacrest Road, was traditionally used for tobogganing by locals.