Close To The Edge Provincial Park and Protected Area
Attention Visitors – Important Notice!
White-Nose Syndrome
White-nose Syndrome is a fungal disease that has been linked to the mass die-off of hibernating bats in Eastern North America – it poses a significant threat to bats of the west and British Columbia. There is evidence that humans have accelerated the spread through entering caves with contaminated clothing, gear or equipment. Therefore, prevention strategies are focussed on public education/awareness to prevent the introduction of the fungus through human activities. There are currently (as of June 2011) no reported cases of WNS in B.C.
To ensure the protection of bats and their habitat in this park, BC Parks strongly advises that personal caving gear that has been used anywhere east of the Rockies not be used in B.C. Also, before entering caves in B.C, cavers and visitors should consult the provincial WNS website, which includes a link to a Decontamination Protocol for Mines and Caves.
About This Park
This 702 hectare park and protected area is situated in the Dezaiko Range of the Rocky Mountains, approximately 160 km northeast of Prince George. This park protects the internationally significant Close To The Edge cave, which has the deepest shaft and is the third deepest overall cave (472m) in Canada. The cave was bottomed in 2001.
The primary shaft drops 255 m straight down, and its diameter varies considerably (up to 30m). There are also additional, smaller caves in the park.
Park Size: 702 hectares
Know Before You Go
Park Safety
- Close To The Edge cave is particularly dangerous because of its depth and vertical shaft. It is suitable only for very experienced cavers. Access requires crossing Hedrick Creek via a hand-operated cable car.
- Please bring your own drinking water, as potable water is not available in the park. Drinking out of any streams or lakes is not recommended, unless the water has been filtered or treated. There are limited water resources in the eastern half of the park near the cave.
Location and Maps
Please note: Any maps listed are for information only – they may not represent legal boundaries and should not be used for navigation. This park/protected area is located approximately 160 km northeast of Prince George, which is the closest community, town or city. The Pass Lake Forest Service Road leads to this park, but it is currently blocked at the McGregor River bridge, which is about 20 km from the park.Nature and Culture
- History: The cave was discovered in 1983, but the bottom was not reached until 2001.
- Conservation: Important habitat for caribou, moose, black and grizzly bears. Internationally significant cave features: the deepest shaft and the third deepest cave (472m) overall in Canada; the cave has multiple pitches.
- General Wildlife, Marine & Outdoor Ethics Information
Management Planning
Activities Available at this Park
Caving
Hiking
