USE CAUTION: THIN ICE

As the temperatures are fluctuating just above and below freezing, ice is beginning to form and is very thin and unpredictable across the region, including St. Mary Lake.
It is critical that the public use extreme caution and stay off local lakes and waterways until we've had a sustained cold snap.
Even then, it is important to test ice thickness when entering an ice-covered lake or water body and to remember that ice depth can vary across a waterbody, particularly in areas with springs and flowing water (such as creeks and rivers entering or leaving lakes). It is recommended all recreationalists planning to venture out onto the also carry Ice Picks and know the basics of self-rescue. 

The Canadian Red Cross recommends ice be a minimum of 5” thick before it is safe to skate on or 7” for groups of people. Ice that is either blue or black is strongest and any ice that is opaque or white may not be safe to walk on, even if it is 5" thick. To learn more or access more ice safety tips, CLICK HERE.

St. Mary Lake Regional Park Brochure

Parks, Trails and Recreation Facilities Brochure

History

St. Mary Lake Regional Park is located approximately 20 km west of Kimberley on St. Mary Road and is on the east end of St. Mary Lake. In 2018, the RDEK signed a License of Occupation Agreement with the private landowner to operate and maintain the park.

Location

Civic Address 8740 Lake Front Drive

Going north from Marysville on Highway 95A turn left onto St Mary Lake Road (just past CARSTAR Signal Collision). Follow St Mary Lake Road for 16 km. Turn left onto St Mary River Road. Travel south across the bridge. Turn right onto Lake Front Drive (350 m).

Follow Lake Front Drive to the upper parking lot is around 150 m from the turn off. There is additional parking if you continue south on lake front drive.

Amenities

The amenities at St. Mary Lake Regional Park include parking, hiking trails, picnic tables, a fire pit, benches and stairs to a viewing platform at the bottom of the waterfall. Seasonal portable toilet

Seasonal Hours

Park open May 15th until September 15th annually.

Park hours are sunrise to 9:00 pm

Park Etiquette

• No alcohol or cannabis
• Limit your stay to daylight hours only (no overnight camping)
• Keep pets on leash and clean up after them
• Park in a manner that doesn’t restrict road or trail access (no beach parking)
• Pack out all garbage with you
• Swim at your own risk (there is no Lifeguard on duty)
• Open fires are allowable in the designated fire pits (please bring your own firewood)

Inquiries  

If you have additional questions, or to report any issues you can contact the Environmental Services Department at 250-489-6900 or email environmentalservicesdept@rdek.bc.ca.