Top 10 Lakes around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)
Best lakes around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay) are situated within the qathet Regional District of British Columbia, offering diverse natural landscapes. This region is known for its connection to the Sunshine Coast Trail, Canada's longest hut-to-hut hiking trail. The area features a mix of reservoirs, recreational lakes, and fishing spots, providing various outdoor activities. It is characterized by thick forests, mountain views, and accessible shorelines.
Best lakes around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)
- The most popular lakes is Fairview Bay Hut, a hut that is a fully enclosed shelter with amenities. It is located in a serene spot with ocean views and a sandy beach suitable for swimming.
- Another must-see spot is Anthony Island Campsite, a facilities highlight. This remote access campsite is recommended for swimming and offers a toilet.
- Visitors also love Rainy Day Lake Shelter, an open hut. It provides access to the lake for swimming in clear water and is located at the foot of Mt. Troubridge.
- Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay) is known for reservoirs, recreational lakes, and fishing spots. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes offering different experiences, from accessible paths to remote camping.
- The lakes around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay) are appreciated by the komoot community, with 2 upvotes and 4 photos shared across 6 highlights.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
Fiddlehead Landing Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Tip by
Anthony Island Campsite
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Rainy Day Lake Shelter
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Amenities:
Outhouse, picnic tables, fire pit, sleeping loft, swimming docks
We camped on the dock
Tip by
Fairview Bay Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Amenities:
Outhouse, picnic tables, fire pit, sleeping loft, beach, covered porch
„Fairview Bay Hut was the first to be built in the fall of 2009, and is the prototype for all the other shelters on the Sunshine Coast Trail. In the summer of 2014 renovations were made to completely enclose this hut and add a covered porch. It’s a beautiful destination for a day hike, and a great spot to camp overnight.
A two-hour shoreline hike from the Saltery Bay ferry terminal, this shelter can also serve those paddling the BC Marine Trail. It is located in a beautiful, serene spot with a magnificent ocean view. A nearby sandy beach makes a good location for swimming on hot days. Oysters can be found on the beach in season. Be aware of red tide blooms.“
sunshinecoasttrail.com/plan-your-hike/hut-to-hut/fairview-bay
Tip by
Confederation Lake Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
It is a nice spot. 2 Picnic Tables, outhouse and swimming access
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay).
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)
Tips from the Community
Fiddlehead Landing is a remote lakeside access point on Powell Lake along the Sunshine Coast Trail, located near the site of the former Fiddlehead Farm and an old orchard on the shoreline. Just uphill, Fiddlehead Hut is a small backcountry shelter perched above Powell Lake, offering simple overnight accommodation and views of the lake in a quiet, forested setting. This site functions as a backcountry trailhead and staging area, with direct access by water taxi from Powell Lake Marina (Contact Justin Behan, who transports hikers to and from the landing at 604-483-6527). Alternatively, land access is via the Fiddlehead Trail as part of a longer, more strenuous backcountry approach.
0
0
This impressive bay is located very close to the Fairview Bay Hut. Here you can relax on the beach after a long walk. The water is clear and with a little luck you will find oysters and starfish.
0
0
Surrounded by dense forest, Rainy Day Lake lies directly at the foot of Mt. Troubridge. From the Rainy Day Lake Hut it is only a few meters to the lake and its jetty. Here you can enjoy a cool swim in the clear water of the lake. We had no problems drinking the filtered water.
0
0
Fully enclosed shelter Amenities: Outhouse, picnic tables, fire pit, sleeping loft, beach, covered porch „Fairview Bay Hut was the first to be built in the fall of 2009, and is the prototype for all the other shelters on the Sunshine Coast Trail. In the summer of 2014 renovations were made to completely enclose this hut and add a covered porch. It’s a beautiful destination for a day hike, and a great spot to camp overnight. A two-hour shoreline hike from the Saltery Bay ferry terminal, this shelter can also serve those paddling the BC Marine Trail. It is located in a beautiful, serene spot with a magnificent ocean view. A nearby sandy beach makes a good location for swimming on hot days. Oysters can be found on the beach in season. Be aware of red tide blooms.“ https://sunshinecoasttrail.com/plan-your-hike/hut-to-hut/fairview-bay/
0
0
Open shelter Amenities: Outhouse, picnic tables, fire pit, sleeping loft, swimming docks We camped on the dock
0
0
Open shelter with enclosed sleeping loft Amenities: Outhouse, picnic tables, fire pit, swimming dock We experienced the place not as nice as it was recommended. Nearby are neighbours who seem not to like hikers near their property (signs, big dogs) The Hut is placed in between. To sleep at Tin Hat cabin was by far the better choice.
0
0
“Confederation Lake sits at the edge of an ancient fir forest, and this is a part of the SCT you won’t soon forget. The hike is easily accessible off of the Inland Lake trail section, and though it is steep, you will find yourself distracted by the awe-inspiring trees that surround you most of the way up. Confederation Lake itself is a peaceful oasis, the perfect place to “get away from it all”.” (https://sunshinecoasttrail.com/plan-your-hike/hut-to-hut/confederation-lake/) It is a nice spot. 2 Picnic Tables, outhouse and swimming access
0
0
Anthony Island is a marvellous place where we had the most fascinating swim with Common Loons in the water, who were giving us a concert. I can absolutely recommend this campsite. Although the old hut looks more welcoming for mice than hikers, you can sleep in your tent. Food has to be lifted in the trees. There is also a toilet. Check out the Common Loon sounds before you come here - it is a very soul touching sound which might be confusable with a wolf if you’re alone at night:)
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes or spots to visit in Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)?
Visitors often enjoy the diverse offerings of the region. For a serene spot with ocean views and a sandy beach, consider Fairview Bay Hut. If you're looking for a remote access campsite ideal for swimming, Anthony Island Campsite on Inland Lake is highly recommended. For clear water swimming and mountain views, Rainy Day Lake Shelter is a great choice.
What outdoor activities can I do around the lakes in Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)?
The area offers a wide range of activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the Sunshine Coast Trail or the accessible loop around Inland Lake. Cycling is also popular, with various routes available for different skill levels. Many lakes are excellent for water sports such as canoeing, paddle sports, swimming, and fishing. For more detailed route information, explore the hiking guide or the cycling guide for the region.
Are there family-friendly lakes or accessible trails in Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)?
Yes, Inland Lake is particularly family-friendly and accessible. It features a flat, wheelchair-accessible 13-km path that loops around the entire lake, making it inclusive for many visitors. It's popular for hiking, swimming, and biking, with dotted campsites and picnic areas. Lois Lake also offers picnicking and beach activities suitable for families.
When is the best time to visit the lakes in Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)?
The warmer months, generally spring through fall, are ideal for most outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and camping. Fishing is often best in spring and fall, particularly near feeder creeks at lakes like Lois Lake and Khartoum Lake. Inland Lake is a popular summer recreation area for families.
What unique natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The region boasts diverse natural beauty. Lois Lake is known for its unique 'drowned forest' along much of its northwest shore, consisting of submerged stumps and thousands of dead upright trees. Rainy Day Lake offers amazing views of heavily wooded mountain slopes reflected in its shimmering water. You'll also find dense forests surrounding many lakes and, from spots like Fairview Bay Hut, magnificent ocean views.
Are there camping options available at the lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer camping. Lois Lake has a main campsite with a large parking area for both day-use and overnight camping. Inland Lake features dotted campsites, small wood huts, and picnic areas, with Anthony Island Campsite being a remote access option. The tiny Elephant Lakes along the Sunshine Coast Trail also permit camping, providing resting points for multi-day hikers.
Which lakes are good for swimming in Area C?
Rainy Day Lake is highly recommended for its clear, refreshing water, ideal for swimming, with a jetty near the Rainy Day Lake Shelter. Inland Lake is also excellent for swimming, especially around Anthony Island Campsite. Lois Lake also offers beach activities and swimming opportunities.
Can I go fishing in the lakes of Area C?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Lois Lake supports diverse aquatic life, including cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, kokanee, and Dolly Varden, with fishing best in spring and fall near feeder creeks. Khartoum Lake, connected to Lois Lake, is also known for cutthroat trout, particularly near feeder creeks. Inland Lake also offers good fishing opportunities.
What is the Sunshine Coast Trail and how does it relate to these lakes?
The Sunshine Coast Trail is Canada's longest hut-to-hut hiking trail, and it passes through the Area C region. Several lakes, such as Rainy Day Lake and the Elephant Lakes, are directly accessible via or located along this trail, offering hikers scenic views, swimming spots, and overnight shelters like the Rainy Day Lake Shelter and Confederation Lake Hut.
Are there any specific considerations for paddling on Lois Lake?
When paddling on Lois Lake, caution is advised due to numerous submerged stumps and snags, particularly in the 'drowned forest' areas. Additionally, winds can make crossing the northern section of the lake challenging, so it's wise to check weather conditions before heading out.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)?
Visitors frequently highlight the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. Many appreciate the opportunity for refreshing swims in clear waters, the scenic views from lakeside huts, and the diverse hiking and paddling experiences. The inclusive accessibility of places like Inland Lake and the unique 'drowned forest' at Lois Lake are also often mentioned as memorable features.
How can I access Lois Lake?
Lois Lake can be accessed by traveling south from Powell River and then turning northeast onto Canoe Main. This is a rough Forest Service Road, and a high-clearance vehicle may be required. The main campsite at Lois Lake has a large parking area for convenience.
Most popular routes around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)
Most popular attractions around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Area C (Lois Lake/Saltery Bay)? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
