Fraser Lake, a quaint village nestled in northern British Columbia, Canada, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Situated on the southwest side of Fraser Lake, this charming community lies between Burns Lake and Vanderhoof, along the scenic Yellowhead Highway.
The history of Fraser Lake is deeply rooted in the pioneer era, tracing back to the fur trade. The establishment of a fur-trading post by Simon Fraser in 1806 at Fort Fraser, near the east end of Fraser Lake, marked the beginning of the area's rich history. The modern-day town came into existence in 1914 during the construction of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway. It was officially incorporated as a village in 1966. Fraser Lake is also the proud hometown of Tianda Flegel, the winner of The Next Star Season 2.
The small community of Fraser Lake primarily relies on the forest industry for employment, with Fraser Lake Sawmills and various logging contractors being the main employers. The Endako Mines, a large molybdenum mine, was once a significant employer in the area.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Fraser Lake had a population of 965, residing in 444 of its 543 total private dwellings. This represented a slight decrease of -2.3% from its 2016 population of 988. With a land area of 4.06 km2 (1.57 sq mi), Fraser Lake had a population density of 237.7/km2 (615.6/sq mi) in 2021.
Fraser Lake is well-connected and supported by nearby communities. To the east along Highway 16, you'll find Fort Fraser (21 km), Vanderhoof (59 km), and Prince George (155 km). Heading west on the same highway, you'll come across Burns Lake (69 km), Topley (120 km), Houston (150 km), Smithers (213 km), Terrace (416 km), and Prince Rupert (560 km). If you venture north on Highway 27, Fort St. James is just 105 km away.
Fraser Lake experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and cool to warm summers. This climate adds to the village's charm, making it a year-round destination for those seeking a tranquil retreat amidst nature.
