Taseko Lakes, BC

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The lake is bordered by the Chilcotin Mountains to the southeast, and the Coast Range to the west. The lakes are divided into Upper Taseko, Taseko and Lower Taseko, and are formed along the line taken by the Taseko River. Together, the total length of the river/lake chain is about 140 km. Some parts of the lake chain are contained within Ts'yl-os Provincial Park, which also contains Chilko Lake to the north. The Taseko River flows into the lakes from Taylor Pass in the South Chilcotin Mountains. The lakes and river are connected by the Chilcotin and Chilko Rivers to the Fraser River.

Chinook and Sockeye salmon run in the Taseko River in July and August, attracting grizzly bear in numbers that make for good and predictable viewing. Mountains in the area include 3,182 m Monmouth Mountain, Mount Good Hope 3,242 m, and Mount Queen Bess 3,298 m. The surrounding wilderness is rich in wildlife that includes Moose, Mountain Goat, Bighorn Sheep, Beaver, Deer, and Cougar. The lake is bordered by pristine forests and smaller lakes, many offering excellent fishing for Rainbow, Dolly Varden and Bull Trout. The Taseko and nearby lakes are at the centre of conflict between mining/ hydroelectric interests and the conservation of wilderness, fisheries and aboriginal land claims.

There are no specific campsites but the area is serviced by Guide Outfitters who offer horseback riding, canoeing and fishing, snowshoeing and x-country skiing as well as ice-fishing. Visitors will be able to explore old gold mines, hike along historic trails or camp out along the lakeshore.

Location and access
Taseko Lake is a 3 hour drive west of Williams Lake, BC; a 9 hour drive from Vancouver, BC; or a 1 hour flight by float plane from Whistler, BC to Taseko Lake.