Bear Lake (Bear River) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bear Lake |
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 Bear Lake
Location in British Columbia
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| Location | North-Central Interior British Columbia |
| Coordinates | 56°06′N 126°49′W / 56.100°N 126.817°W |
| Primary outflows | Bear River |
| Basin countries | Canada |
| Settlements | Bear Lake |
Bear Lake is a large, beautiful lake found in the northern part of British Columbia, Canada. It's located in an area called the Omineca Country, which is known for its wild landscapes and many lakes. Bear Lake is special because of where its water goes and the small, historic community on its shores.
Discover Bear Lake
Bear Lake is a significant body of water in the vast wilderness of British Columbia. It's a place where nature thrives, offering a glimpse into the province's amazing geography. The lake is quite large, though its exact size isn't always highlighted, its importance comes from its unique position in the water systems of the region.
Where is Bear Lake?
You can find Bear Lake in the northwestern part of the British Columbia Interior. This is a huge area in the middle of the province, away from the coast. The lake is north of two other well-known lakes, Babine Lake and Takla Lake. Imagine a map of British Columbia; Bear Lake sits in a more remote, northern section.
The Bear River Connection
What makes Bear Lake stand out is its connection to the Skeena River. Many lakes in this part of British Columbia, like Babine and Takla, are part of the Fraser River system. This means their water eventually flows into the Fraser River. However, Bear Lake is different! Its water flows out through the Bear River, which starts at the northern end of the lake. The Bear River then joins the mighty Skeena River, which eventually empties into the Pacific Ocean. This makes Bear Lake a key part of the Skeena River's journey.
A Historic Community
On the northeast side of Bear Lake, there's a small community also named Bear Lake. This place is also known by its older name, Fort Connelly. This name comes from a historic trading post. In the past, these posts were important places where people traded goods, especially furs. The exact spot of the original Fort Connelly might have been slightly different, perhaps at the very northern end of the lake or even on an island within Tsaytut Bay. These small communities often have rich histories tied to the early exploration and trade in British Columbia.
