The area now known as the Top Of The World Provincial Park was once the home of the Upper Kutenai Indians. This 8,790 hectare Park is an alpine region of great beauty. Most of the Top of the World Plateau is at an elevation of above 2,200 metres.
To the east of Top Of The World Provincial Park stands the Van Nostrand mountain range and to the west are the jagged peaks of the Hughes Range. Forest cover consists of alpine fir, Engelmann spruce, lodgepole pine, Sitka elder, alpine larch, white bark pine and spruce. Alpine flowers carpet much of the plateau. Photographers and animal lovers alike will not be disappointed, as the Park is home to numerous species of birds and big game. Weather conditions are typically "Rocky Mountain", temperatures varying greatly between summer and winter, even night and day.
Top Of The World Provincial Park is located in the Kootenay Range of the Rocky Mountains, 48 kilometres as the crow flies from Kimberley. The route to the Fish Lake area utilizes logging roads that are accessible from late May to mid-November. Use caution.
Access is from the north via Whiteswan Lake. Turn east off of Highway 93/95, 4.5 km south of Canal Flats, 17 km north of Skookumchuck. At km 21.3 take the fork to the right, then at km 29.6 turn right and cross Coyote Creek. Go straight ahead at km 30.7 and stay on the main road to km 52. The trail begins here.
Camping and hiking are popular activities in this backcountry park that has many family-friendly features. An easy, improved and well maintained trail leads to Fish Lake, where a 16 site lake-side campground is located. There is also a public cabin available accommodating 20 people. Walk in only - about 7km.
Fishing & Boating - Fish Lake is noted for its cutthroat and Dolly Varden fishery. Although there is a bait ban at present, angling with flies and lures is permitted. Be sure to check the BC Fishing Regulations.
Hiking & Trails - Because trails provide the only access to the park and to its attractions, there are many located throughout Top of the World, all varying is stages of difficulty. Some include the Parking Area to Fish Lake, 6.7 km Fish Lake to Sugarloaf, 7 km; Lakeshore Trail, 2 km; and Fish Lake to Summer Pass, 4 km.
Other Activities - Horses are permitted in Top Of The World Provincial Park on the Coyote Creek, Galbraith and Fish Lake horse trails. An intermediate cross-country ski trail from Nicol Creek crossing to Fish Lake is accessible during winter months.
