It seems I discover something new every time I visit Boundary Country. Here are a few favourite spots if you’re looking to cool off in the water or catch a lake breeze. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, boating, or picnicking, be sure to explore one or all of these five lakes on your next visit to Boundary Country:

1. Christina Lake

Christina Lake is the biggest lake in Boundary Country, also known as the warmest tree-lined lake in Canada. The sandy shores can be accessed from various parks – Christina Lake Provincial Park to the south, Gladstone Provincial Park to the east, and the Community Nature Park near the Christina Lake Welcome Centre.

The community of Christina Lake is at the south end, offering a wide variety of accommodations and services, including watersport rentals at the Christina Lake Marina and WildWays.

2. Jewel Lake near Greenwood

Located in Jewel Lake Provincial Park, this peaceful, low-horsepower lake is excellent for paddling the day away. Jewel Lake Resort offers boat and watersport rentals, along with accommodation and other essentials. You can also stay at the BC parks campground, or 20 minutes away, in Greenwood.

3. Rhonda Lake at Big White Resort

While Rhonda Lake is covered by snow in winter, the serene, turquoise waters lay below steep, rocky cliffs make for stunning views in the summer months. Rhonda Lake can be accessed from the Big White Resort village, by hiking up one of the mountain trails or riding the chairlift to the top, then walking down towards the lake.

In summer, Big White Resort has a wide variety of accommodations and restaurant options, with lift-access biking and hiking trails available from your doorstep.

4. Conkle Lake near Westbridge

Soak in the tranquillity of this non-motorized lake, located in the secluded Conkle Lake Provincial Park. This is a popular spot for windsurfing and paddling, depending on the day’s weather.

Spend the night under the stars at the BC Parks non-reservable campground or drive 40 from the communities of Westbridge, Rock Creek, or Bridesville.

5. Wilgress Lake between Grand Forks & Greenwood

Cruise along the Crowsnest Highway (BC-3) and make a stop at the Wilgress Lake Rest Area. There are picnic tables, a cartop boat launch, wheelchair-accessible washrooms, and a dock on the lake. There are no accommodations but this eye-catching spot is only 20 minutes from Grand Forks and 15 minutes from Greenwood.

Check out the Maps page to get a gauge on where these lakes are located and start planning your Boundary Country adventure!

Chelsea McGonigal

Chelsea is a Kelowna resident who loves to explore Boundary Country, both in person and on Instagram. Chelsea spends her weekends exploring trails, rivers, and lakes with her tiny yet adventurous rescue dog, Rocky. Along the way, she loves to learn about the history of the land and culture of the local people. Chelsea hopes that sharing her experiences will inspire people to plan their own adventures along Highway 3 and 33.