Deep in the Forest PAGE A3
Friday, August 15, 2014
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VOL. 100 NO. 100
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Hallis Lake diversifies
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Low mobility trail open to wheelchair accessibility AUTUMN MacDONALD Observer Reporter Hallis Lake is diversifying. Recently completing the Hallis Lake Low Mobility Trail, Hallis Lake is the most recent location to provide wheelchair accessibility. The trail was built in partnership between the Cariboo Regional District (CRD); the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development through the BC Community Recreation Program; Northern Development Initiative Trust; the Cariboo Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition; and the Cariboo Ski Touring Club. “The Cariboo Regional District is to be applauded for making accessible trails a priority,” Cariboo North MLA and Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Coralee Oakes said. “For people with mobility issues, providing accessibility is more than just creating smoother pathways. It’s about opening up opportunities to participate more fully in life. It’s wonderful to see this accessible trail project come together so close to my home in B.C.. “Its completion represents one of approximately 14 accessible trail upgrades in the Cariboo region that we were pleased to support with a grant of $401,250 through the Community Recreation Program.” Hallis Lake received $5,000 towards their project from the $401,250 Community Recreation Program grant awarded to the Cariboo Regional District for the accessible trail upgrade projects “I am extremely pleased that we have now completed the Hallis
Lake Low Mobility Trail,” CRD Electoral Area A Director, Ted Armstrong said. “This is the next step in making the Cariboo Chilcotin one of the most attractive wheelchair accessible tourism destinations in the world. Projects such as the Hallis Lake Low Mobility Trail show what can be accomplished through regional collaboration and commitment to improving the quality of life for residents and visitors of all abilities.” The trail, 760m long with packed, crushed gravel, takes visitors through the forest to a lookout bench looking back to the Hallis Lake Cross Country Ski Lodge. The trail features a gentle grade with one steeper section on the way back to the Lodge. At the trailhead, an information kiosk displays a map of the Hallis Lake Low Mobility Trail and an accessible outhouse is provided for visitors’ convenience. An accessible pullout with a bench is also offered along the trail. “The low mobility trail that the Cariboo Ski Touring Club has just completed provides a great opportunity to attract a greater diversity of people to use the outstanding public recreation facility at Hallis Lake,” President of the Cariboo Ski Touring Club Brian Black said. “People who could not previously utilize the trails are now included and will really enjoy this beautiful trail.” Hallis Lake Cross Country Ski Centre is located 14.5 km east of Quesnel on Hydraulic Road. For further information about the growing list of accessible trails within the Cariboo Regional District, visit cariboord.ca and look under services/recreation.
Prospector’s Club Show & Shine August 22, 23 & 24
Residents of Dunrovin Park Lodge and other locals with mobility issues were invited to the opening of Hallis Lake Low Mobility Trail Wednesday. Whitney Griffiths photo
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