History
The Chaunigan Lake area was originally dominated by the Athabaskan
First Nations people the Tsilhqot’in. The Native St’at’imc
people also lived in this region for centuries before European
settlers conquered the area. During that period most First Nations
families lived nomadic existences. Clans lived together in large
numbers, surviving off the riches of the land. Chaunigan Lake provided
an excellent source of resources for First Nations, due mainly
to its vast abundance of fish and other wildlife. Today it still
remains very popular among the fishing and hiking community.
The Chaunigan Lake Lodge was built in 1935 and continues to provide
excellent accommodation and activities at the lakeside. Chaunigan
Lake is frozen over from November to early May.
Location
Chaunigan Lake is located in the Chilcotin region of British Columbia.
At Williams Lake turn west onto Hwy 20. Follow this road approx 97
km (60 mi) to Hanceville (a.k.a. Lee's Corner). Turn south off Hwy
20, cross the bridge over the Chilcotin River and follow the Taseko
Lake Road for about 85 km (52.7 mi). Just after passing Big Lake
turn north. Follow this road to Chaunigan, which lies just past Elkin
and Vedan Lakes.
Places to See
- Chaunigan Lake Lodge
The Chaunigan Lake Lodge, situated on the shores of Chaunigan Lake,
is an excellent choice for a relaxing vacation. The lodge has 9 cabins
for rent, ranging from deluxe log cabins to rustic log cabins. The
main lodge has a roomy lounge with a cozy stone fireplace as well
as a dining area, sauna and outdoor hot tub. The Chaunigan Lake Lodge
is fun for all the family, with an outdoor play area for kids, fishing,
horseback riding and legendary Chilcotin hospitality!
- Chaunigan Mountain Trail
Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the Chaunigan Mountain Trail. This
three hour round trip, takes you to the top of nearby Chaunigan
Mountain. Spend the afternoon hiking and be rewarded with a spectacular 360
degree view of the beautiful landscape.
- Lily Lake Trail
For those who prefer short hikes, the Lily Lake Trail is an
ideal choice. This small hike follows a creek to the scenic
Lily Lake, an excellent way to get some exercise. The hike takes one
and a
half
hours round trip.
- Mainguy Lake Trail
This hike follows an old fireguard at the end of Chaunigan
Lake to Mainguy Lake. The trail takes approximately 40
minutes each way.
At Mainguy Lake one can take a boat to explore Ducharme and Augers
Lake. Contact Chaunigan Lake Lodge for more details.
- Konni Mountain Trail
For the more adventurous hiker the Konni Mountain Trail is
twelve hours in duration and boasts fantastic surroundings
and scenery.
Most will make this hike an “overnighter”,
enjoying wilderness camping as its best!
Things to do
- Fishing
Chaunigan Lake is famous for its excellent fishing conditions.
Careful management and remote location has preserved world
class rainbow trout, lake fishing. The average fish size is 2 1/2 pounds.
The lake has many weed beds and shoal areas, and cool water
temperatures year round. The abundant freshwater shrimp population
produces a
clean
firm rainbow trout. There are many days
when experienced fly fishermen will catch 50 fish a day. For
a change of pace try one
of the 6
fly-in fishing lakes within a 70 mile radius of Chaunigan
Lake.
- Horseback Riding
A ride along forested trails with birds, wildflowers, and
the beautiful vistas is part of the Chaunigan experience
you
won't want to miss. During the summer months the Chaunigan Lake
Lodge offers daily
guided horseback tours for riders of all levels.
Enjoy the breathtaking scenery on the many trails surrounding
the lake.
- Hiking
Hiking is one of the most popular activities for visitors
to Chaunigan Lake. There are many trails within close
proximity to the lake, which are suitable for varying levels of fitness.
The Lily Lake
Trail,
Mainguy Lake Trail and the Konni
Mountain Trail are just some
examples of the fabulous hikes available in this
region. Take in landscapes of moderately forested hills
of spruce and lodgepole pine,
decorated
in the background by beautiful
snowcapped mountains.
- Wildlife Viewing
Chaunigan Lake and the surrounding area boast many different
types of wildlife. Bald Eagles and Ospreys make their home
at Chaunigan
Lake and can frequently be seen sitting in the tops of trees
along the beach waiting for their rainbow trout lunch to
come along!
Red Squirrels, Yellow Pine Chipmunks, Beavers and Moose are also
frequently spotted here.
Notable Comments
“Chaunigan Lake is a fisherman's dream. The lake has a shelf
around the perimeter. The wild rainbow trout like to come up on the
shelf to feed. As the weather gets warmer, move further into deeper
water. I like to fish with a sinking line and 12' leader. I usually
spool out all of the sinking line until I am into the backing. Be ready
for hard hitting rainbows averaging 4lbs. Pound for pound, they are
the best fighting fish that I have ever experienced”.
- A Chaunigan Lake enthusiast!
Contact Information
Chaunigan Lake Lodge
c/o 11465 Baynes Rd,
Pitt Meadows, BC, Canada
V3Y 2B4
Toll Free No: 1-888-879-8885
Local No: 1-604-519-9317
E-Mail: info@chaunigan.com
Website: http://www.chaunigan.com/109
