Km 55: Whitewater, Birch Hills County & MD of Smoky River

MD of Peace on West Bank of the Peace River, Birch Hills in the middle and Northern Sunrise County on the East Shore.
GPS Coordinates: N56° 11.379′ W117° 19.933’

Sagitawa is the Cree word for “where the rivers meet,” a fitting name for this naturally beautiful confluence. This spot is also accessible through mixed-use trails within the Peace River Wildland Provincial Park, this spot opens up to a wide sandy beach that shifts with the seasons, sometimes revealing calm back channels perfect for wading or exploring. There is also rocky section here that is a great spot for rock hounding, with unique rocks exposed by changing water levels. It is a lovely spot to spend the day and very close to the Town of Peace River.

GPS Coordinates: N56° 06.768′ W117° 23.239’

Locally known as Gord’s Beach, named for a gentleman who owns a trapline and cabin on the opposite riverbank, this spot offers a mix of sandy and rocky beach areas and plenty of space to stretch your legs. While there are few trees for shade or shelter, the beach provides striking views, including a large red iron deposit on the riverbank. This vivid red coloration comes from iron-rich sandstone. As the river erodes the layers, oxygen from the air and water reacts with the iron minerals, creating the bright red and rusty hues visible today.
In the distance, you can spot a Wildland Provincial Park lookout, accessible via mixed-use trails. Visitors can reach it by crossing the Peace River using the Shaftesbury Ferry and following the trails through Peace River Wildland Provincial Park.

GPS Coordinates: N56° 05.057′ W117° 26.678′

At times, this back channel is navigable by boat or paddle, though opportunities are rare and dependent on water levels.

GPS Coordinates: N56° 05.023′ W117° 27.099’

This island features a beautiful sandy beach and can be fully walked around when water levels allow. A large rocky section makes it a perfect spot for rock hounding. From here, you can enjoy views of Murphy Flats Recreation Area in Northern Sunrise County, which is accessible by road. Some areas of the island are shaded by clusters of trees, providing natural shelter and resting spots for paddlers and boaters.

GPS Coordinates: N56° 04.390′ W117° 27.555’

Murphy Flats is a rare spot where docking your boat is possible, but it’s not recommended for jet boats. It’s an excellent starting point for a paddle adventure to the Town of Peace River, allowing you to bypass all the rapids from the outset. It’s also a great stopping point for those paddling the Smoky River. Depending on your pace and style, the paddle can take 4–7 hours. This day use recreation area in Northern Sunrise County offers trails, picnic tables, free firewood, and washrooms, with convenient road access for visitors.

GPS Coordinates: N56° 02.070′ W117° 29.394′

The Three Sisters are named for three large rocks that rise from the river. Depending on water levels, they may be partially hidden or stand out prominently. While they make a striking sight, boaters and paddlers should give them a wide berth, as the current can be very strong in this area and there are multiple other rocks surrounding them.