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Birken BC Canada

A Unique Mountain Community
In the north east of the Pemberton Valley, visitors will find Birken, a diverse and artistic community located at Birken Lake in the Gates valley in the Southern interior of BC, 20 minutes drive from Pemberton.The stretch of Portage Road from Pemberton through to Birken & D'Arcy encompasses spectacular scenery and is a popular route for drivers and road cyclists.
The road meanders through an eclectic mix of homes, hobby farms and artist studios. There are numerous recreational residential homes surrounding the lake and a small lodge and cabin and the areas only store (the Birkenhead Resort) on it's north west side adjacent to the main road to D'Arcy. A campground (Whispering Falls Resort) is just north east of the lake. The tracks of the Canadian National Railway run along the lakes north west shore.
Birken's name is derived from the Birkenhead River and adjacent Birkenhead Peak which overlooks the settlement. It is one of the few places in the province where salmon enter from 2 sides. From the north, they enter the valley, from Anderson Lake into Gates River system, and from the south, from Lillooet Lake into the Birkenhead River system.
Great places to see the salmon are at the hatchery on the N'Quatqua Reserve near D'Arcy and from the suspension bridge across the Birkenhead River just past Mt. Currie.The best times of year to watch the salmon run are late August and early September.
Birken Artists & Studios
The valley is home to several artists' studio's and some are open to the public:
- The Mute Raven Studio shows photographs, feather collages and paintings by Wim Tewinkel.
- Our Glass Works Studio, opened in 1979 is operated by Judy & Hugh Bourhis. They specialize in custom design, some jewelry and ornaments. 604 452 3273
When driving up to the community look for open signs on the road or call ahead to make an appointment to avoid disappointment.
Cafe with Traditional Native Flair
Events
- On the 3rd Saturday of every month from May to September you may enjoy local produce, baked goods, jams, novel artisan products, jewelry and photography at the Birken Country Market.
- The annual Gates Lake Shinny Tournament held in February offers a complete family day of Canadian Fun. Cross country ski, skate or snowshoe on this versatile lake
- The Birken 4X4 Off Road Rally. An annual event held the first weekend of June featuring a Tow Test, Hill climb & large mud pools!
Birken Accommodation
Birken offers a variety of unique accommodation:
- Birken Lake Resort offers six housekeeping cabins offering wood stoves and kitchenettes. Peddle or power boats are available for rent. Camping sites offered. 604.452.3255
- Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park Campground's amenities include picnic area, fire pits, hiking trails, boat launch and sandy beach. The campground is 50 km from Mt. Currie, turn and drive along 17km gravel road to the park.

