Some maps show a trail from Murtle Lake up File Creek, but it has been impassable since the 1980s.

Float planes and helicopters are allowed to land at McDougall Lake with a permit from B.C.

[2] Canoes and kayaks can be portaged from Murtle Lake around some outlet rapids on File Creek, then one can paddle 4 km (2.5 mi) upstream.

The creek is impassable at a log jam, and a flagged route starts here.

The hike to McDougall Lake is 6 km (3.7 mi) and takes about 3 hours cross-country over the lava flows from Kostal Volcano.