Tatlayoko Lake: Lakes, Mountains and Nature

The aquamarine waters of Tatlayoko Lake lie against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Its name means “lake of strong winds” in the Tsilhqot'in language. This suits a place where the landscape, bird migration research and activities on the water offer different perspectives on the area.

Lake, Mountains and Bird Migration Research

The Tatlayoko Lake Bird Observatory was established in 2006 by the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) to monitor migratory bird populations in the valley. As a result, observing bird populations is a focus of the work here, alongside the experience of nature. The nearby Homathko River-Tatlayoko Protected Area protects an important low-elevation wildlife corridor through the Coast Range. The Homathko River-Tatlayoko Protected Area is remote and difficult to access.

Activities on the Water and Along the Shore

There are opportunities for boating on Tatlayoko Lake. Steady thermal afternoon winds create good conditions for windsurfing; frequent winds can also cause dangerously high waves. This comes with a clear caveat for canoeing and kayaking: only experienced paddlers should venture onto the lake. Keep this in mind when planning a paddling trip. The lake is accessible by boat. A road runs along the east shore, where there is a forestry recreation site.

Fishing is another option in the area. Fishing is available at Tatlayoko Lake, the nearby Horn, Sapeye, Bluff, Middle and Twist Lakes, and the Homathko River. Fishing is subject to licence and angling regulations.

Trails and Activities in the Protected Area

Tatlayoko Lake Community Park has a network of intersecting accessible trails. A pilot wheelchair-accessible trail was also completed in the park in 2008. One trail near Tatlayoko Lake has a surface made from reused conveyor belts from a mine, suitable for wheelchairs, walkers and strollers. Check the trail’s current condition before visiting. This distinguishes its stated suitability from the question of what condition the surface is in today.

Horseback riding is permitted in the Homathko River-Tatlayoko Protected Area, subject to backcountry conditions. The trails in the Community Park and horseback riding in the protected area are different options in the area. When planning, it is therefore important to consider not just the activity, but also the location and conditions specified for it.

Environmental Education and Getting There

Tatlayoko Field Station is located in the Tatlayoko Valley, on the inland slopes of the Coast Mountains. Its Nature-Friday program offers place-based environmental education about the land, history and culture of the Tatlayoko Valley region. The station also runs field-based programs for researchers, students, teachers, Elders and the community. At its Lincoln Creek Campus, it hosts school groups and community events.

To get there, travel 175 km west from Williams Lake on Highway 20, stopping just before the small community of Tatla Lake. From Tatla Lake, signs point 30 km south to Tatlayoko Lake. Road conditions can vary, so it is advisable to check them before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Redstone, Anahim Lake, Riske Creek, Forest Grove, 100 Mile House, Bridge Lake, Quesnel, Lone Butte

For the broader travel overview: Cariboo.