Box Lake Nature Trail

Trail Description

The path winds from the Forest Service camping area for 500 metres through the mature, moist forest. Very little sunlight reaches the forest floor here, so the undergrowth is sparse. A thick carpet of step moss covers the ground, and patches of boxwood, mushrooms and Devil's club are seen. Look for stumps from original logging many years ago and dead snags where birds and small animals have made their homes.

The trail winds near the marshy creek inlet, to the left of the trail. The marsh affords perfect riparian habitat for ducks, frogs, eagles, and

larger mammals and can be observed best from the little spur leading off the trail to the left, about 200 metres along the main trail (Point 2). After observing the lively marsh, hikers can return to the main trail and follow it to the Box Lake Forest Service Road (Point 3). Turn right onto the road, which will continue the loop for 700 metres back to the campsite parking lot.

Box Lake Loop provides excellent introductory hiking for children, as it not only holds the allure of interesting forest and marsh habitat, but also a lake for swimming or tossing stones and campsites for a picnic. Roasting marshmallows, exploring the Box Lake Loop, and playing at the lakeshore provide an easily accessible morning or afternoon of delightful adventure.

For hikers or bikers looking for a longer trek, there is a rough road behind Box Lake connecting to Brouse Loop Road at its far end. The road is accessed by taking the spur road leading off the sharp corner in the road leading into the campsite (Point 4). This old road is a favourite of local bikers, opening up some great territory behind Box Lake. Be respectful; the road goes through private property.