The area around Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, is filled with raw breathtaking beauty. Campers, hikers and ATVers find there are few places that can be compared to this untouched treasure. There are over 300 kilometres of ATV trails to explore along forestry roads and cutlines. Riders are urged to tread lightly on this paradise, keeping to well-worn trails and paths to prevent environmental disturbance.
Many ATV trails lead into unparalleled fishing opportunities. Onion Lake Trail is for serious ATVers and provides access to what used to be a fly-in destination. Take extra gas and hang on to your seats—the ride is a bit of a rodeo.
“Sometimes it takes a couple tries to find Onion Lake," said Tumbler Ridge resident Adam Court. "But once you do, it is worth all the effort."
Waterfall Capital of the North
There are dozens of waterfalls in the Tumbler Ridge region, from falls accessible from trails and roads to hike-in destinations. Court's favourite is Bergeron Falls, which plunge down a mountain into the Murray River Valley. The 4.5-kilometre hike up and down mountainous ridges is well worth the journey.
“Bergeron Falls was the most amazing experience ever," said Court. "The waterfall is 100 metres high and you can go directly under the cascading falls.”
Another must-see is Kinuseo Falls. At over 60 metres in height, these falls are taller than Niagara Falls. There's easy access by vehicle or, for the more adventurous, via jet boat. Local tour companies provide opportunities to view the Kinuseo Falls up close and personal. See visittumblerridge.ca for a list of tour operators.
Cool caves
If you want to experience your inner somewhat like Batman, caving may be your ticket to fun and excitement - this fun activity is not just for the serious spelunker. Monkman Provincial Park has a couple of caves with easy access where you can see stalactites, calcite walls and, in the spring and early summer, a breathtaking compilation of icicles. Remember, cave systems are fragile. Tread lightly and never touch or take anything from the caves.
Court hiked the 2.5-kilometre Stone Corral Cave Trail, where a series of spring-fed lakes provides plentiful wildlife viewing opportunities. The upper lake is fed by an underground aquifer, which originally created Stone Corral Cave. There is also a smaller cave called Porcupine Cave along the trail. The Wolverine Nordic and Mountain Society has set up an interpretive walk with signs providing information on the caves as well as plants and animals in the area.
Family adventures are around every corner in Tumbler Ridge. If golf is your thing, the Tumbler Ridge Golf & Country Club provides one of the most challenging courses in northern B.C. Be sure to add Tumbler Ridge to your bucket list.
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