Loon Lake Recreation Area Trail

Trail Overview

Embark on an off-road adventure to the serene Loon Lake, a picturesque gem nestled in the woods near Grasmere, British Columbia. Your journey begins just a short distance from the Grasmere General Store, the last opportunity to stock up on essential supplies before immersing yourself in the tranquility of the area. The trail itself is a dirt road that winds its way through the forest. Be prepared for mild off-road challenges like washboard surfaces, occasional large potholes, and some ruts. In some sections, one may have to back up to allow for oncoming traffic. Exercise caution, especially after rainfall, as sections of the trail could become impassable when very wet or in the winter. Keep an eye out for free-range cattle that may be grazing along the route. As you approach Loon Lake, you'll be rewarded with stunning views. The lake offers excellent boating and fishing opportunities. Keep an eye out for the lake's namesake, the elusive loon, as it gracefully glides across the water or serenades you with its haunting call. Upon arrival, a well-maintained day-use area awaits to the right. Enjoy a relaxing picnic at one of the provided picnic tables or utilize the pit toilet facilities. For those looking to extend their stay, continue past the recorded track to discover the Loon Lake Campground. This campground offers a variety of campsites, many situated right on the water's edge. Contact the campground host for current rates and availability. Cell service in the Lake Koocanusa area can be intermittent. To ensure you have consistent map coverage, please download your offline maps before exploring the area. Crown Land Camping: Canadian Crown land is open to Canadian residents for free camping. Out-of-country visitors, particularly from the US, will need to obtain a camping permit from the nearest FrontCounter BC office in Cranbrook before camping on Crown land if camping outside of the paid campsite.

Photos of Loon Lake Recreation Area Trail

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Difficulty

This is an easy trail that narrows in some sections. It features a standard washboard and the occasional rut. It may be impassable when very wet and is not maintained in winter.

History

The area surrounding Loon Lake and Grasmere holds a rich history. For centuries, this land was home to the Ktunaxa (Kootenai) First Nation, who relied on the forests and waterways for their livelihood. In more recent times, the area became a hub for logging, with the surrounding forests providing timber for growing communities. The construction of the Libby Dam in the late 1960s dramatically reshaped the region, creating Lake Koocanusa and altering the landscape. As you explore, remember the layers of history that lie beneath the surface, from the ancient traditions of the Ktunaxa to the more recent legacy of resource extraction.

Technical Rating

Loon Lake Recreation Area Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike