Gold Country 2017 Trail Guide

BRITISH COLUMBIA • CANADA

Trail Guide

DISCLAIMER: Those who use this trail guide do so at their own risk.

Outdoor recreation involves certain inherent risks. Gold Country Communities Society assumes no responsibility for any claims arising from incidents affecting or involving users of the trails listed in this guide. This includes, but is not limited to, personal injury, property damage, or other claims of liability. All participants must understand that hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, skiing and other outdoor activities involve risk to both persons and property. There are many variables including, but not limited to, weather, fitness level, terrain features and outdoor experience including encounters with wild animals, that must be considered prior to engaging in outdoor activities. Be prepared for your journey and be sure to check the current weather and conditions before heading outdoors. Always exercise common sense and caution.

In no way shall the Gold Country Communities Society nor any agent, officer, employee or volunteer be liable for any direct, indirect, punitive, or consequential damages arising out of, or in any way connected with the information provided for the Gold Country Trail Guide.

PRODUCTION: Gold Country Communities Society

EDITORIAL: Kat Chatten, Erica Hummel, Josephine Boxwell

DESIGN: Lori Johnson, Dragonfli Studio

MAPS: Backroad Mapbooks

PRINTER: Mitchell Press

PRINTED IN CANADA

PUBLISHED BY:

Gold Country Communities Society P.O. Box 933, Cache Creek, BC V0K 1H0 250-457-6606 info@exploregoldcountry.com www.exploregoldcountry.com

© Topographic map reproduced under licence from Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, with permission of Natural Resources Canada. Trim data reproduced under licence from the Province of B.C.

Written permission is required from Gold Country Communities Society for the reproduction of any part of the Gold Country Trails Guide. Gold Country Communities Society is not responsible for any errors or omissions that this guide may contain.

Copyright ©2017, Province of British Columbia All Rights Reserved. Printed in Canada.

Welcome!

Gold Country is located in British Columbia’s Southern Interior and is known for the incredible diversity of its natural landscapes. Discover our limestone cliffs, expansive lakes, volcanic hoodoos, rolling grasslands, protected wetlands and sagebrush-scented hills. This guide is a great starting point for non-motorized explorations into Gold Country. Pick up a copy of our Visitor’s Guide or take a look at our websitewww.exploregoldcountry.com - for more travel and adventure ideas to discover during your stay.

KELLY TUOHEY

Cultural Heritage

Human history in this region dates back thousands of years. A journey through Gold Country will take travellers into the traditional territories of the Secwepemc, Stl’atl’imc, Nlaka’pamux and Okanagan peoples. While exploring some of the trails outlined in this guide, visitors may come across sites of great spiritual and historical significance.

Pictographs in the Stein Valley Nlaka’pamux Heritage Park were created using powdered ochre and water. The Lytton First Nations and archaeologists have discovered numerous pictograph sites in the park, including one of the largest in Canada. Depressions in the earth at Monck Provincial Park are evidence that skekulis (pit houses) were once situated there. Fur trading and the Gold Rush of the 1860s brought many new settlers to this area. Visitors may also discover remnants of their activities, such as abandoned sluice boxes in creeks and trappers’ cabins in remote clearings.

Do not touch any pictographs or petroglyphs, as oils transferred from people’s hands will damage them. Please respect all archaeological and heritage sites so that they can be preserved for future generations to discover and learn from.

Protect Yourself and the Environment!

BEFORE YOU GO:

· Research current trail & weather conditions, and find relevant maps.

· Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.

Invite some friends to join you - exploring trails is safer in groups than alone.

Choose a route that matches your fitness level and ability.

WHAT TO PACK:

· Maps, a compass and/or GPS device.

First aid kit, flashlight and matches.

A cell phone - but be aware you may be travelling through areas without cell service. Plenty of food and water.

· Dress appropriately and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.

Have Bear spray and wear Bear bells.

ON THE TRAIL:

Be aware of wildlife in the area. Gold Country is home to Black Bears, Grizzly Bears, Cougars, Coyotes, Rattlesnakes and other wild animals. Avoid areas with recent signs of wildlife activity, and never approach wild animals. Use a Bear bell or make noise as you travel so that Bears are aware of you presence without being approached by surprise.

· Be aware of other trail users, particularly on multi-use trails. Pedestrians have right-of-way.

· “Pack in, pack out”. Whatever you bring onto the trails must leave with you.

Do not light campfires when bans are in place.

Use these trails at your own risk. Gold Country Communities Society is not responsible for any damage to persons or property sustained on these trails.

KELLY TUOHEY

6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28

ASHCROFT INUKSHUK TRAIL

BIG BAR SKI TRAILS

BROOKMERE GREAT TRAIL

CACHE CREEK RECREATIONAL PARK TRAIL

KANE VALLEY TRAILS

LOGAN LAKE

PORCUPINE CREEK

ROCK TRAIL

SKIHIST PARK TRAIL

STAKE LAKE TRAIL

STEIN VALLEY NLAKA’PAMUX

LACEY MEMORIAL TRAIL

SWIMMING

SNOWSHOEING

VIEWPOINT

WILDLIFE VIEWING

PICNIC SITE

INTERPRETIVE SITE

HORSEBACK RIDING

HIKING

CYCLING

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING

CAMPING

WASHROOMS

SHELTER

GATE

SPRING

SUMMER

FALL

WINTER

KELLY FUNK

Ashcroft Inukshuk Trail

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

The beautiful Village of Ashcroft is situated by the Thompson River, where “Wellness Awaits You.” This community was an important part of the Gold Rush and history is still very vibrant. Ashcroft is also home to amazing murals, an authentic soddy house, a refurbished caboose and a mine haul truck. The trail is located above the community and provides sweeping views of the valley.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

This trail will take you through Ashcroft’s mesa; the arid landscape that features sagebrush, brittle prickly-pear cactus and rabbit-bush. The trail has rolling inclines as it traverses the base of the hills. Users have added to the inukshuk theme by stacking rocks along the path, feel free to leave your own creation as your mark.

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

To reach the trailhead head south on Barnes Lake Rd towards Logan Lake( Hwy 97C). Turn onto Mesa Vista Drive on the left and continue following the road up the hill. Turn Right onto Juniper Dr. and then left onto Heustis Dr. Park in the Cul De Sac.

LENGTH/DIFFICULTY OF TRAIL: Easy – 2kms

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.ashcroftbc.ca

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.): Dry, rocky mesa environments are favorable for snakes, be aware.

KELLY FUNK

KELLY FUNK

MARCIE DOWN

MARCIE DOWN

Big Bar Ski Trails

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

Located just outside of Clinton, “Where History Meets Adventure.” This charming community located on Hwy 97N has antique shops and boutiques, excellent camping and accommodations and a variety of restaurants and shops. Spend some time exploring the Village of Clinton.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

These scenic forest trails are at 1100 metres in elevation, providing plentiful snow for the groomed trails. Skiers and snowshoers can enjoy beautiful views of the Marble Mountain Range on the southwestern section of the trails. In the warmer months this trail can be utilized for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking.

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

From Clinton drive 10 kms North on Hwy 97, Turn left onto Big Bar Road and continue 6 km, signed parking area on your left.

LENGTH OF TRAIL:

Easy to Moderate – 26 km of trails

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.village.clinton.bc.ca

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.):

Snowmobiling is not allowed. There is a donation box where skiers are encouraged to support the Clinton Snow Jockey Club’s maintenance program.

KELLY TUOHEY

GUY LUNDSTROM

GUY LUNDSTROM

Brookmere Great Trail

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

Brookmere is an unincorporated settlement in the Nicola region founded in 1916 as part of the Kettle Valley Railway; the trains once ran right through the centre of town. The KVR line is now a part of The Great Trail, a network of trails over 23,000 kilometers that travels through 13 provinces and territories. (Formerly The Trans-Canada Trail). Brookmere is also home to the last surviving water tower on the Kettle Valley Railroad.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

As a former railway, steep inclines are virtually non-existent making this an enjoyable walking or bicycling adventure. You can start your adventure in Brookmere and cover as much or as little of the path as you like before heading back. For the more adventurous or those looking for a longer cycling route Brody Siding Rd has a parking lot, just 8.3 km from Brookmere. The 16 km round trip will take you through forested areas and past a restored caboose.

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

Brody Siding Rd Parking Lot: From Hwy 5 take Exit 250 Larson Hill, and then turn onto Brody Siding Rd.

LENGTH/DIFFICULTY OF TRAIL:

Easy – 16 km round trip from Brody Siding Parking Lot to Brookmere.

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.thegreattrail.ca

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.):

The wide gravel path can be rough in places as unregulated motorized activates have deteriorated some portions. Make sure to come prepared there are no opportunities to purchase goods here.

GUY LUNDSTROM

Cache Creek Recreational Park Trail

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

Cache Creek is a transportation hub that offers travellers a great place to rest and recharge, “An Oasis in the Desert.” This urban trail is ideally situated beside the Bonaparte River at the north end of the Village of Cache Creek.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

This trail is paved and flat, making it barrier free and able to be enjoyed by everyone. It circles the Cache Creek Recreation Park which features a playing field, an outdoor pool and outdoor gym equipment. There is a viewing platform, also barrier free, adjacent to the Bonaparte River where visitors can spot trout and salmon. Picnic tables, a gazebo and a newly renovated playground create a wonderful spot to take a break or spend the afternoon.

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

Travelling North on Hwy 97, turn right onto Parke Rd. Turn left at the 4-way stop onto Quartz. The park is located at the end of Quartz Rd.

LENGTH/DIFFICULTY OF TRAIL: Easy – 0.8 km

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION OR MAINTAINING OF TRAIL: Village of Cache Creek 250-457-6237

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.):

Within the Recreation Park there is the outdoor swimming pool, which offers free swimming to the public May long-weekend through to September long-weekend.

TERRI HADWIN

KELLY TUOHEY

JONAH GREENMAN

Kane Valley Trail

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

Located in the beautiful Kane Valley, the 50+ kilometres of the Kane Valley cross country ski trails are adjacent to Kane Lake. This very popular recreation site is used by all types of outdoor recreationalists. The nearby Harmon Lake Forest Interpretive Trail allows hikers to walk on the southeast side of Harmon Lake and learn about forestry and wildlife.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

Over 50 kms of trails can be explored on skis in the winter or by foot, mountain bike or horseback through the warmer months. The trails are varied in difficulty and provide a challenge for all users.

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

These trails are just 18 km outside of Merritt. From Merritt, travel south along Hwy 97C towards Kelowna. Watch for the “Kane Valley Ski Trails” highway signs. Take the exit onto Kane Valley Road. There are 6 trailhead parking areas on Kane Valley Road, Trailhead parking for Menzies Novice Trail is less than 2 km from Hwy. 97C on Kane Valley Road.

LENGTH OF TRAIL:

Easy – Menzies Trail is 1.2 km

Moderate – Kane Trail 4.2 km

Difficult – Hill’s Homestead 5.2 km

There are more than 20 different trails to explore!

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.nicolanordic.ca

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.):

Dogs are only allowed on the Chute, Matthew’s Loop and Parts of the Kane Trail in the winter time. No snowshoeing on the groomed trails, please. A donation to the Nordic Ski Club for the maintenance of the trails is appreciated or there is an annual membership available as well.

Logan Lake All Season Recreation Trail

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

Located right outside the wonderful community of Logan Lake, a community that was created for the Highland Valley Copper Mine. Logan Lake has year round recreation, a wonderful campground and a multi-use community centre. The trail provides stunning scenery and a great chance to catch a glimpse of the wild horses in the area.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

Logan Lake’s recreational trails provide over 36km of well-marked trails to be explored by hiking and mountain biking in the warmer months. When the snow starts falling, the trails become a winter wonderland for the groomed and ungroomed trails are perfectly balanced between snowshoeing and cross country skiing and there is even a lit section for night skiing, a must try!

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

Trailhead and parking area can be reached by travelling northwest on Galena Ave, Turn right onto Chartrand Ave and travel to Breccia Dr. Head north on Breccia Dr until it turns into a dirt road which will then take a sharp right and lead you to up the hill to the parking lot.

LENGTH/DIFFICULTY OF TRAIL:

Easy – Easy Does It 0.9 km

Moderate – Rudi’s Loop 2.0 km

Difficult – Roller Coaster 3.5 km

There are more than 20 different trails to explore!

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.highlandvalleyoutdoorassociation.com

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.):

No motorized recreation allowed. Fees apply for the use of the trail for snowshoeing and skiing, all fees provide funding for the maintenance of the trails.

KELLY TUOHEY

KELLY TUOHEY

NATHAN FROESE/ JOY FACTORY

Porcupine creek canyon Trail

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

Located 25 km from Clinton, this hike is located high into the Cariboo’s Marble Range. The trail showcases the unusual looking limestone and wondrous views of Edge Hills Provincial Park and Marble Range Provincial Park. Be sure to bring binoculars, this area is a migration route for the sure footed Big Horn Sheep.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

Spectacular views of limestone cliffs attract hikers to this trail. The trail travels through a forest, across a stream and up through a gully until it climbs steeply for less than a km to reach the ridge. Paths leading left and right offer breathtaking views.

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

From Clinton, take Kelly Lake Rd for 16.5 km then turn right onto Jesmond Rd. In approximately 5.5 km turn right at the sign post for Porcupine Creek Trail. This dirt road reaches the trailhead at about 4.5 km. This road may require high clearance and a 4x4 wheel drive. You can chose to cycle or hike the road to the trail head.

LENGTH OF TRAIL:

5 km, round trip Moderate, steep hill for approx. 1 km.

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION. www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.):

In 2009 the forest in this area were damaged by a forest fire. There is no cell service in this area. Camping is available nearby in Downing Lake Provincial Park.

KELLY TUOHEY

TERRI HADWIN

MARCIE DOWN

Red Rock Trail

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

The community of Lillooet plays host to spectacular scenery, wildlife, and recreation. Downtown is fascinating to explore on your way to or from the Red Rock Trail. It features the Jade Trail- a stroll that exhibits over 30 pieces of jade. There are many businesses, shops and attractions to explore in Lillooet.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

Pink flags and trail signs will guide visitors to Red Rock, where hikers will be greeted by spectacular views of Lillooet and the Fraser Canyon. Trail is steep in places with an elevation gain of 500 meters.

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

Head north on main street and turn left on 6th Ave. Turn left again at the top of the road onto Victoria St. Follow Victoria St to the end of the pavement and park in the Cul De Sac. Walk up the gravel road and turn right before you reach the water tank. Follow the pink flags on the steep gravel road.

LENGTH OF TRAIL:

Moderate to Difficult – 6.4 km round trip

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.lillooetbc.ca

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.):

The Lillooet & District Chamber of Commerce publishes an excellent Map of Hiking Trails in Lillooet and Area. Copies of this map are available at local businesses and the Visitor Information Centre.

KELLY TUOHEY

Skihist Park Trail

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

This trail is situated above the Thompson River on Highway #1, 6 km East of Lytton. The trail is located at Skihist Provincial Park, a popular campsite that is located close to river rafting, fishing and world class recreation.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

Breathtaking views of the Thompson Canyon await hikers on this 8 km trek. The Gladwin Lookout may offer visitors a glimpse of mountain goats on the opposite hillside. For a roundtrip, hike along the historic Cariboo Wagon Road.

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

Travel 6 km east of Lytton on Highway #1, follow signs to Skihist Provincial Park. Continue through the campground to the top loop of the campsites. The trail head is located beside campsite #29, just past the yellow gate.

LENGTH/DIFFICULTY OF TRAIL:

Easy to Moderate – 8 km round Trip

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.env.gov.bc.ca

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.): Provincial Park open seasonally.

Stake Lake Trail

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

Stake Lake features a recreational site on its shores with day use facilities. This lake is stocked with rainbow trout and very popular with anglers. Nearby lakes such as Lac Le Jeune offer both provincial campsites and resorts with endless recreational opportunities.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

Stake Lake Trails offer over 60 km of wilderness hiking, biking and horseback riding in the summer months. In the winter months skiers enjoy over 25 expertly groomed trails that are perfect for skiers with a variety of skill levels. The area features 13 km of snowshoe trails that range from easy to extremely challenging. The Stake Lake Ski trails are beautiful during the day and they are equally spectacular at night. The trail around the lake and a few of the smaller surrounding trails are completely lit at night for night skiing. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful outdoors with their furry friends as well; Stake Lake offers 5 km of dog friendly trails.

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

The trails are situated just 29 km from Logan Lake. Travel northwest from Logan Lake on Meadow Creek Rd, continue along as it crosses the Coquihalla Highway and becomes Lac Le Jeune Rd. Turn right at the BC Forest Service Stake Lake sign. Parking is located at the North end of Stake Lake.

LENGTH/DIFFICULTY OF TRAIL:

Easy – Cartwheel 2.6 km

Moderate – Quick Draw 2.0 km

Difficult – Bush Wacker 2.7 km

There are more than 25 different trails to explore!

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.overlanderskiclub.com

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.):

In winter, there are fees for accessing the trails, passes for multiple visits or seasons passes are also available. Equipment rental is also available as well as lessons.

Stein Valley Nlaka’pamux trail

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

Located west of Lytton, this is a wilderness park containing spectacular scenery and outstanding historical, cultural and spiritual values. It protects the entire Stein River watershed. This is a user-maintained area, with 150 km of hiking trails and routes, four cable crossings, a suspension bridge and several wilderness campsites.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

The Stein Valley straddles the transition from the dry interior to the damp Coastal Mountains. Higher elevations will mean rougher, steeper sections of trail. There are several cable cars and suspension bridges on these trails and in wet conditions the trail may be muddy or flooded. The longer more strenuous hikes will reward visitors with colbalt blue lakes and views of glaciers. Experience in back country hiking is a necessity for multi-day hikes.

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

The main trail head is located on the west side of the Fraser River by Lytton, accessed by crossing the Lytton Ferry. After disembarking from the ferry, follow the road to the right for 4.8 km to the junction with the Stein Valley Road (marked). Turn left and follow it to the parking lot.

LENGTH OF TRAIL:

Moderate – Lower Valley 30 km

Difficult – Upper Stein 10.5 km

The park has many opportunities for multi-day back country hiking adventures.

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.):

This park is only accessible via hiking, no horses or mechanical vehicles allowed (atv, mountain bikes, snowmobiles etc) Dogs should not be taken in the park. No open fires. Do Not Touch or Tamper with any Pictographs, Petroglyphs or Culturally Modified Trees. Contact between these artifacts and your fingers transfers oils and acids which damage them. In some cases these pictographs have existed for several thousand years. Please, join us in protecting them for future generations. It is an offence under the Park Act to damage or destroy any park resource, including cultural artifacts.

Tom Lacey Memorial Trail

LOCATION OF TRAIL:

One of many trails located in the community of Merritt, this trail starts at the north end of town. This viewpoint has amazing views that allow you to see Merritt in its entirety and the valley beyond it.

DESCRIPTION OF TRAIL:

This trail is a moderately difficult climb but visitors are rewarded by spectacular views of the city and the valley. Southern exposure makes these hiking or biking these trails perfect all year round.

PARKING AT TRAILHEAD:

Access the flagpole lookout parking lot by heading North on Nicola Ave to Juniper Drive. Turn right, then left on the dirt road just before the Pineridge Cemetery. Follow the switchbacks to the parking lot.

LENGTH/DIFFICULTY OF TRAIL:

Moderate – 4 km

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION:

ADDITIONAL INFO

(Trail Fees, restrictions etc.):

From the parking lot make your way up to the flagpole lookout, the trail is well marked from there.

Lundstrom ‘14