Outdoor Guide - Tourism Kitimat
Transcription
Outdoor Guide - Tourism Kitimat
Outdoor Guide E M O C L E W Williams Creek Ecological Reserve Lakelse Lake 6,020,000 Lakelse Lake Wetlands Park 9 5 6 7 8 r Rive 6,010,000 We de en e 10 Ri ve r MT CHARLIE 6,000,000 4 L it tle We de en e Kiti mat Nalbeelah Creek Wetlands Park v Ri er MT ELIZABETH Kitimat River Park Hi 3 5,990,000 KITIMAT rs ch 2 12 Bish C 1 11 Kiti mat Arm k k e Wathls 5,970,000 Jesse Lake 506,000 Emsley Cove 516,000 2 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada thl e re Wa re C KITIMAAT VILLAGE C 5,980,000 Kitelse Lake 526,000 Number 1 2 3 4 5 6 to re C 7 8 9 HAISLA 10 11 MTN 12 1 re p e k Recreation Sites & Trails in the Kitimat Area Scale 1:200,000 0 1 2 3 4 Kilometers Recreation Feature Name Project ID Robinson Lake Trail REC6596 Mount Elizabeth Trail REC0604 Mount Claque Trail REC6595 Enso Recreation Site REC6420 Onion Lake Ski Trails REC6409 e iv Clearwater Lakes Trail REC3506 ek R Onion Lake Recreation Site REC3506 Chist Creek Recreation Site REC6419 West Lake Recreation Site REC6418 Upper Kitimat River Recreation Site Closed Until REC3521 Further Notice North Cove Traill and Recreation Site REC6757 a a Robinson D Ridge Trail REC0992 536,000 546,000 r ...mountains river ocean WELCOME TO KITIMAT! This information was produced to assist you, the outdoor enthusiast, in enjoying your outdoor adventures both safely and memorably. Use caution when encountering wildlife, keep a respectful distance so the animals do not feel threatened and always let them know you are in the area by making noise. For more information on being ‘Bear Aware’, visit www.wildsafebc.ca. See also page 15. Ensure you are wearing appropriate footwear and clothing for your trip and carry the essentials, including enough food and water to complete your outdoor adventure. Never go in the wilderness alone, go out with a friend or group and stay together at all times. Have a trip plan and leave it with a friend. Drive with caution on all logging roads. Check weather forecasts prior to departure. Trails described within this guide are broken into two categories; Trails located within the municipality of Kitimat and those located just outside the boundary. All are generally well marked and traveled by residents of Kitimat and the surrounding area. That said, the trails are considered ‘rustic’ and subject to occasional windfall and encroachment of lush vegetation which can partially obscure the trail at times. Annual maintenance is undertaken on most trails during the summer months. Kiosks; small wooden structures with a roof; protect a detailed trail information sign and map located at some, but not all of the trailheads (see map). In addition to the trail overview map, GPS Coordinates have been provided for the start and end of trails as well as some of the more critical junctions. NOTE: For trails INSIDE the municipality, GPS coordinates reference the map datum NAD 83 which is what most cell phones, vehicle GPS’s and Google Earth currently use. For trails OUTSIDE the municipality, GPS coordinates generally reference NAD 27 which is more common on topographic maps for this area and important to have when engaging in longer day hikes in this area. Changing the map datum is not difficult on most GPS Units (Go to your ‘Menu’ and find ‘Settings’ and then ‘Units’), and it will automatically adjust coordinates. If you don’t do this everything will still be close but out by a 100-200m’s. A copy of the “Trip Plan Outdoor Survival” form is included in this booklet. Additional forms are available at the Kitimat Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Centre. Project Manager - Trish Parsons Trail Description Updates - Andrew Blix Layout & Design - Rosemary Brady Cover Photo - Screamin’ Reels Charters Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 3 Kitimat Trails Presently there are 11 recognized trails located within the municipality of Kitimat and an additional 6 hikes located just short drives from the townsite; all of which are detailed within this guide. Be aware of any trails currently noted as either CLOSED or unmaintained. Periodic maintenance is undertaken on these trails but please recognize some trails may not have been completed (prior to your trip!). IMPORTANT: All trails within the municipality have been, or are in the process of being marked with reflective green & yellow square shaped trail markers (metal tags). Some trails also have the original orange metal tags. If you don’t see either of these on your travels you may have taken an unmaintained side trail. NOTE: The trail ‘difficulty ratings’ (easy thru advanced) are loosely based on an ‘average’ person walking at an ‘average’ speed with appropriate footwear and includes a few short rests along the way. Those with young children or elderly that require more stops and/or walk at a slow pace should add additional time to that shown. Kitimat Walkways Kitimat is a planned community with a great walkway system. Locals and visitors walk many of the loops for exercise or just to sight see. You can find a great view of the Douglas Channel from the path down Haisla Boulevard or take another to find one of our many child–friendly parks. Detailed information is located on one of the four kiosks found in each neighborhood or at the Kitimat Visitor Centre. Kitimat does have a leash and pooper-scooper bylaw. 4 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada Hirsch Creek Park Trail Easy (20-30 Minutes: 1.5 km Loop) Take Highway 37 North, just after the Hirsch Creek Bridge turn left into Hirsch Creek Park. Within Hirsch Creek Park there are short walking trails and access points to the creek. However, to get to the start of main trail (loop) take the right fork in the road right to the end (the left fork takes you to the picnic shelter). Hirsch Creek Park is an excellent place for a picnic and to view the magnificence of a coastal old growth forest and some exceptionally large trees! The main trail commences at the end of the right fork road. The trail is flat and easy to follow and perfect for the whole family. GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD83): Trailhead/ end of right fork road=525557E / 5990813N Hirsch Ck Park Entrance (Hwy turnoff) = 525830E / 5991115N www.fishinginkitimat.com info@fishinginkitimat.com 921 Kuldo Blvd. Kitimat, BC Canada T 250-639-4555 M 250-639-6431 Toll Free 1-877-781-4555 Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 5 Coho Flats Trail Moderate (60-90 Minutes Return: 2 km one-way) The trail starts on Baxter Avenue at the back of an empty lot beside the Baxter Apartments (see map). Detailed information including a map of the trail is available at the trailhead kiosk. Vehicles may be parked in the vacant lot. This trail is well blazed and easy to follow; meandering down to the Kitimat River. The rock outcrop at the end of the trail is an excellent place to fish. This trail intersects with the end of Fisherman’s Trail and as mentioned in that trail description, is an alternate destination point provided you have the time and energy (reasonable fitness level) and park a second vehicle at the Rod & Gun or get picked up there. This extension will add approx. 90 minutes or so to your trip but is well worth it if you have the time! GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD83): Trailhead/ Parking Lot= 522951E / 5991441N End of Trail (Kitimat River)= 522640E / 5993041N Fisherman’s Trail Junction= 522636E / 5993039N Smith Street Trail Easy (20 Minute Return: 400 m one-way) This recently upgraded trail primarily provides access to/from the Hirsch Creek South Trail. The trail primarily consists of a short but steep descent to the floodplain. Fortunately with the construction of more steps down the hill as well as improvements to the crossing of the lush floodplain, this trail is much more enjoyable and safe than it once was. NOTE: For the experienced adventurer this trail can also provide access to some sandbars on Hirsch Creek, however, at present these trails are neither recognized or maintained as they require crossing a deep back channel on an old log! GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD83): Trailhead/ Parking Lot= 524805E / 5990480N End of Trail /Jct with Hirsch S. Trail= 524981E / 5990787N 6 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada Fisherman’s Trail Moderate (3-4 Hours Return: 3.5 km one-way) Turn right off Haisla Boulevard just before you come to the Haisla Bridge heading west. Park in the Rod & Gun Club parking lot. There is a kiosk at the back of the Rod & Gun clubhouse containing a detailed map and information about the upper and lower trails, however the lower trail is now closed. Please use the upper trail, which starts on the right, a few metres before you turn into the Rod & Gun Club (there is a sign at the start of the upper trail). The Fisherman’s Trail is periodically maintained and has been recently brushed out. The trail terminates where it joins in with the Coho Flats Trail and provides an alternate exit for those not wanting to return the same way. Ideally you want to arrange for a ride back to the Rod & Gun, otherwise it requires walking back along the streets of Kitimat and adds another 2.5 km’s to the round trip. The first half of the trail crosses over more rugged rocky terrain with a number of short up and down pitches in order to navigate around rock bluff and the river. As a result this trail is NOT RECOMMENDED for children under 6 years of age. The last half of the trail however, is flat (floodplain) and contains giant old-growth Spruce, Hemlock and Cedar trees and is highly recommended as a very pleasant walk. GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD83): KIOSK & LowerTrailhead= 521307E / 5990267N Start of Upper Trailhead= 521322E / 59902012N Coho Flats Trail Junction=522636E / 5993039N 18 Private Suites Guided Fishing Tours All Inclusive Packages Full Hook-up RV Sites Wireless Internet On Site Laundromat Douglas Channel Halibut Steelhead flyfishing 250-632-6677 656 Dadook Ave Kitimat, BC V8C 2K5 www.kitimatlodge.com www.kitimatadventures.ca Kitimat Chinook Salmon Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 7 North Cove Trail Easy (1 to 1.5 Hours Return: 1 km one-way) Drive past Rio Tinto and turn right on the Bish Forest Road (approximately 13 km from the Kitimat Chamber of Commerce office). Head south along the mainline for approximately 8 km. Directional signs are located about 1 km prior to the parking area located at the trailhead. The trail is 1 km in length and drops approximately 100 m vertical distance to the beach. It is an easy walk down, however a little more difficult coming back. The trail ends on the shore of the Douglas Channel where you will find picnic tables, a fire pit and an outhouse. A second short trail will take you to the Mid Cove area where you will enjoy a beautiful view. This trail is of an easy to moderate hiking standard and providing you take your time, should be an enjoyable yet physically rewarding experience for all ages. Look closely at some of the older cedar trees along the trail, you will notice old tapered or rectangular scars on them. Many of these scars are the remnants of past bark stripping, done by the local First Nations who gathered bark to make a variety of items, such as clothing, baskets and rope. Reliable Guide and Charters Best of both worlds, Fresh & Salt Water Fishing Salt Water Fishing on the Douglas Channel & Jet Boat Charters River Drift Boat Trips with the Finest Local Guides F.F.F. Fly Fishing Certified Instructor Half Day & Full Day Packages Cell 250-632-1275 • wakita@telus.net www.kitimatfishingguideandcharters.com 8 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada Pine Creek Trail Easy (45 Minutes to 1 Hour Return/loop: 1 km/loop one-way) Turn onto the Kitamaat Village Road and travel 2 km down the road, across two bridges and turn right at the Minette Bay Lodge sign. Travel approximately 0.5 km down this road to the bridge. The upper trail starts on the right just before the bridge; it is marked by a large metal sign and trailhead kiosk. A small blue sign on the left hand side (across the bridge), is where you can park and just beyond that is the start of the Lower Trail loop. It will take approximately 30-60 minutes to hike each loop. Keep in mind both loops incorporate a section of gravel road but you have the option of returning the way you came if this is not desired. The kiosk provides detailed information on both trails. These are great hikes for all ages. NOTE: The lower loop includes a section through private property (Minette Bay Lodge), which the owners (Mills family) have graciously allowed. All they ask is that through this section dogs be kept on a leash. GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD83): Lower Trailhead Loop= 524970E / 5988020N Upper Trailhead Loop (Kiosk)= 525064E / 5988047N Kitamaat Village Road Junction=525707E / 5988032N Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 9 Hirsch Creek Canyon Trail NOTE: There are two ways to get to Hirsch Creek Canyon. One is a relatively short walk (15 minutes) after driving several kilometres of logging road, the other a 4 hour hike one way starting on the opposite side of Hirsch Creek Park entrance. The Hike! Moderate (4 Hour Return; 4 km one-way) This trail starts on the opposite side of Highway 37 to Hirsch Creek Park entrance and for the first km follows the old road/ ATV trail up the north side of the creek to where it junctions off the road and becomes a true trail. Follow the trail to a logging road and turn right to cross over the logging bridge. Just after the bridge, you will see a steep section of road going down to the left and the start of the original trail (trail sign). At this point the trail follows the remnants of an old skid road but is now more of an ATV trail. There are several forks in this trail (short side trails to the creek) which, although not maintained, allow access to the cooling effects of the creek on a hot day! At the first fork in the trail (approximately 5 minutes from the logging bridge), proceed right. The left fork will take you to the same spot, but is much steeper! You will reach a second fork in the trail anywhere from 15-20 minutes from the bridge along the trail; keep to the right again unless you want to go down to the creek (5 min detour) and a naturally formed pool sometimes referred to as “Egg Rock.” After climbing several steeper hills and having come almost 2 km from the bridge, you will come to the third and final fork in the trail: which is the junction to the alternate route and leads out to 2.5 km on the South Hirsch Mainline logging road. From this point it is only a 300 m walk to reach the canyon viewpoint and/or remainder of the trail, which continues down to a large side creek sometimes referred to as ‘Skidoo’ Creek where the trail presently terminates. CAUTION: Stay well back from the edge of the canyon viewpoint and maintain constant supervision with young children! NOTE: The area is becoming overgrown and views of the canyon are becoming more difficult without getting too close to the edge! GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD83): Trailhead/ Parking Area off Hwy= 525829E / 5991115N End of Trail (Skidoo Ck)= 528276E / 5991899N Canyon View Point= 528116/ 5991828N Shortcut Trail Junction (to 2.5 km on S. Hirsch Mainline)= 528219E / 5991640N 10 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada Hirsch Creek Canyon Trail Shortcut to Hirsch Creek Canyon Trail (from ‘2.5 km’ on the South Hirsch Mainline Logging Road) Moderate (30 Minutes Return; 400 m one-way) For those with less time or energy, but who would still like to see the canyon, this route is considerably shorter. Keep in mind where you park makes some difference! Drive along Forest Avenue past the Kitimat Chamber of Commerce building and continue straight for 2 km past several gravel pits (on your left) and a rock quarry (on your right). At this point the road begins to climb until intersecting with the Wathl Forest Service Road, this junction is also the start of the South Hirsch Mainline (‘0 km’). Continue straight (as if heading toward the Robinson Ridge Trail) and drive along the South Hirsch Mainline logging road for approx. 2.5 km until arriving at a sharp corner and a side road to the left, where you will see the trail sign. You can park at the trail sign, or continue down the trail road for about 500 m to a smaller parking spot. The true trail starts at the small parking area, but you’ll have to walk the last 50-100 m. Less than 100 m along the trail, you will intersect with the longer trail coming in from the logging bridge. Stay right and proceed to the canyon viewpoint approximately 250 m beyond. GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD83): Parking Area= 528370E / 5991638N Canyon View Point= 528116E/ 5991828N Road turnoff (2.5 km on S. Hirsch Mainline logging road)= 528830E / 5991688N Shortcut Trail Junction (to 2.5 km on S. Hirsch Mainline)= 528219E / 5991640N Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 11 Hirsch Creek North/South Trails Hirsch Creek North Trail Easy (1 Hour Return: 1.5 km one-way) This trail starts on the opposite side of Highway 37 to Hirsch Creek Park entrance and for the first km follows the old road/ ATV trail up the north side of the creek to where it junctions off the road and becomes a true trail for the remaining 500 m up to the logging bridge where it terminates. A great place to run the dog or get a quick walk in before heading out of town! GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD83): Trailhead/ Parking Area off Hwy= 525829E / 5991115N End of Trail (near Logging Bridge)= 526910E / 5990863N Hirsch Creek South Trail Easy (1 Hour Return: 2 km one-way) As its name suggests, this trail follows the south side of Hirsch Creek and if you only have an hour or so to get away from it all….try this one! The cool breeze coming off the creek while walking under the shade of the old growth forest makes it a perfect hike/stroll on a hot day! There are a few options for this trail. Turn left onto a small logging road just before Hirsch Creek Bridge (Kitimat side) on Highway 37. You will see the trail signs about 1 km along the logging road. Either you can take the trail leading off left to Smith Street Trail, or the right hand trail to the logging bridge. Alternatively, you can start the trail from the logging bridge (end of Hirsch Creek North Trail above) and follow the south side of river to the original start of the South Trail. You can also hike this trail from the opposite direction (end of Smith Street up the creek). Caprice Trading Post “I didn’t know you had that” Health Supplements Kathy Seager Certified Herbalist Clothing & Accessories Giftware Toys 250-632-2911 • 245 CITY CENTRE MALL • KITIMAT 12 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD83): Trailhead/parking= 526948E 5990731N End of Trail (presently Jct with Smith Street trail)= 524981E / 5990787N Joe’s Trail Easy (3 Hour Return; 3.5 km one-way) This trail starts just below the Haisla Bridge (Kitimat River) and just beyond the pump houses. It runs down the north bank of the Kitimat River to the end of the Lower Dike Road. To get to the start of the trail go just past the Riverlodge Recreation Centre parking lot (end of Columbia Street) at which point you will intersect with a well used gravel road (referred to as the Dike Road if not marked as such), turn right and continue to the end (past the left turnoff ….that goes to the ‘Giant Spruce’). The road turns down a small hill where a number of pump houses are located, go just past these and you will see the trailhead sign. The trail incorporates past fishing trails and more recently ATV trails which provide access to the river but also make for a nice walk. The trail crosses several access roads and as a result it is important to follow the trail markers. That said, it is unlikely you will get lost as the river and sounds of civilization are never too far away. The trail terminates near the end of what is referred to as the ‘Lower Dike Road’ and, although driveable, is rough and vulnerable to flooding (4WD recommended). The trail was named after the late Joe Iannarelli, long time DoK Recreation Director who enjoyed using this trail to access some of his favourite fishing holes. GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD83): Trailhead/ Parking Lot= 521054E / 5989786N End of Trail (end of Lower Dyke Rd)= 521336E / 5987425N Rosario’s Restaurant 250-632-4980 • 607 Legion Ave • www.rosarios.ca Daily Specials•Halibut & Chips•Steaks•Pasta Pizza•Burgers•Breakfast•Fully Licensed Reservations Accepted Open Tuesday - Sunday 9:00 am to Late • Closed Mondays Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 13 Clearwater Lakes Trail Moderate (2 Hours Return) Drive towards Terrace on Highway 37 for 31 km and park at the pull-out area at Onion Lake. The 6 km trail system leads you through old growth forest and around the Clearwater Lakes. At the lake you can turn either left or right and circle both lakes. A side trail approximately 500 metres in leads to a viewpoint overlooking Lakelse Lake. Taking a quick dip in the second Clearwater Lake is refreshing to say the least! This is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon with the whole family! GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD27): Highway turnoff/Trailhead (Onion Lk Rest Area) =529744E / 6018337N Chalet Motel and Restaurant • • • • downtown affordable free internet in-room coffee 14 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada • • • • in-room fridge coffee shop dining room meeting rooms Bear Encounters About Bears BC is bear country. We can expect to see bears around and sometimes moving through our community. However, it is best to prevent bears from feeding on human food and lingering in our communities. Rehabilitation and relocation are ineffective. Please report bear sightings to 1-877-952-7277 immediately so that proactive education and conservation efforts can be used. For more information about bears please visit: www.bearaware.bc.ca Grizzly Bear Encounter Black Bear Encounter If you believe the bear to be stalking you, fight back with everything you have. In general though, playing dead in a daytime grizzly encounter tends to reduce the level of injury sustained by most attack victims. Many grizzly attacks are defensive in nature, and playing dead may show the bear that you are not a threat. Keep your backpack on as it will provide added protection. The best position is to lie on your side in a fetal position. Bring your legs up to your chest and bury your head into your legs. Wrap your arms around your legs and hold on tight. Do not play dead until the last moment. Staying on your feet may allow you to dodge an attack. If the attack escalates and a black bear physically contacts you, fight back with anything that is available to you. Black bears tend to be more timid than grizzlies and fighting back may scare the bear off. In addition, if a bear is stalking you then you are in a predatory situation and fighting back is your only option. This also applies to any attack at night as these may also be considered predatory in nature. Black bears come in a variety of colours from white Kermode bear through to black and most shades of brown and in between. Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 15 Robinson Lake Trail Route 1 Moderately Difficult: (4-6 Hours Return: 3.3 km one way) Start at the Chamber of Commerce road (Forest Ave.) and proceed up gravel road for 2 km past several gravel pits (on your left) and a rock quarry (on your right) at which point the road climbs up to intersect with the Wathl Forest Service Road. Turn right onto this road and drive approximately 3.5 km to reach the trailhead, which is noted by a large sign in a cedar tree on the left hand side of the road (park a few metres further down the road from the cedar tree). The road is becoming overgrown and narrow and although access to the trailhead is possible with 2WD, a creek near the start of this road can sometimes be washed out due to beaver activity, therefore 4WD is recommended. The trail gently climbs approximately 230 m in elevation to a small ‘coastal lake’, winding through coastal old growth forest and along the edges of small marshes and streams. Several ‘rest benches’ are located along the trail as well as a picnic table at the lake (end of trail). This hike makes for a nice family day trip and may even include a swim on a hot day! Note: This is a typical small ‘coastal lake’; with many attributes but lacking any real beach. GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD27): Wathl Mainline Turnoff= 527372E /5989944N (NAD83= 527265E / 5990138N) Trailhead/Parking Lot= 527038E / 5986938N (NAD83= 526931E / 5987132N) Robinson Lake (end of trail)= 528900E / 5985991N (NAD83= 528793E / 5986185 N) Route 2 Advanced (5-7 Hours Return) This provides alternate access to the trailhead but is no longer maintained and adds an additional 0.5 km to the hike! Turn off Highway 37 onto the Kitamaat Village Road. Travel down this road for 2.3 km and after crossing the Cordella Creek Bridge turn left into the gravel pit. Head up to the right and follow the road for 0.7 km to the trailhead. Possible access if Wathl Mainline became impassable to vehicles. 16 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada Robinson Ridge Trail Difficult to Advanced (4-6 Hours Return: 3 km one-way) From the trailhead to the cabin is a steady climb which can take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours depending on your level of fitness etc. Due to the present state and gradient of the last 4 km of road accessing the trailhead, 4WD is required and it will be slow and rough! Whether you drive or walk to the end of the road the trailhead is confirmed by a kiosk which provides more details on the trail. From the Chamber of Commerce, drive approximately 2 km up the gravel road to junction with the Wathl Forest Service Road which also equals the start (‘0 km’) of the South Hirsch Mainline logging road which you stay on (do not go right as this will take you to the Robinson Lake Trail!). Just over 6 km along this road, turn right onto Branch Road 2000 (previously referred to as Br. 100 prior to recent logging in the area). Approximately 500 m up this road you will come to another junction; stay right even though the road looks overgrown and rough because it is! The trailhead is approximately 4 km from this point and you can anticipate it to take you a good half hour to drive if you make it to the end! The last km is challenging (loose rock and several steep pitches) and for some it will be preferable to walk it as opposed to drive! If you have access to an ATV, it will make your travel to the trailhead considerably more enjoyable! The trail is reasonably well marked and also serves as a winter trail for snowmobiles and skiers. A variety of terrain exists including open marshes as well as timbered areas with some steep pitches before arriving at the Kitimat Snowmobile & Hiker’s Club cabin located next to a small sub-alpine lake. The trail officially ends at the cabin, however, from here one can continue on up the ridge along a much less defined trail to alpine and a view overlooking the Kitimat Valley and town site. (elevation 1300m) GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD27): Br.100 turnoff 531020E / 5992466N (NAD83= 530913E / 59992660N) Trailhead/KIOSK= 531290E / 5988884N (NAD83= 531183E / 5989078N) Cabin= 533229E / 598792N (NAD83= 533122E / 5988115N) Top of Ridge (view of Kitimat)= 532700E / 598665N(NAD83= 532954E / 5986846N) Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 17 Clague Mountain Advanced (5-7 Hours Return) Clague Mountain is a difficult 6 km trail to the peak and if not an experienced hiker it is recommended you go with someone familiar with the trail if it’s your first time. A branch of this trail will also take you too the newly constructed Kitimat Snowmobile & Hiker’s Club cabin which is a considerably easier hike (‘moderately difficult’). From the Kitimat Chamber of Commerce, drive towards Kitimat, on Haisla Boulevard and over the Haisla Bridge to Service Centre. When you come to the Kitimat Hotel on Enterprise Avenue, turn right. Continue down this road until you reach the gravel road. Follow the gravel road over the railroad tracks and then turn right onto the Wedeene Mainline logging road (sometimes referred to as the Eurocan Haul Road). Continue north on this road for approximately 1 km (long straight stretch). Turn left near the corner in this road and follow the side road for approximately 2 km going under a powerline at 1 km. You will eventually reach an open area, with a trail information kiosk this is the parking lot. The trail climbs continuously following an old mining road which winds its way up to sub-alpine meadows. The trail still has some steep pitches as well as a few muddy sections but for the most part is good going. After approximately 1 to 1.5 hours you should reach a new section of trail (well marked) going off to the left (don’t follow the old road/ snowmobile route). Taking this trail avoids wet muddy sections which now cover much of the old route. 500 m or so up the new section of trail you will encounter a junction. The trail to the right takes you on to the summit (staying left will take you to the Kitimat Snowmobile and Hiker’s Club cabin. If tackling the summit, follow the next few hundred meters carefully as it will cross part of an old route to the snowmobile cabin which you only follow for 50 m before veering off to the right (look for signage and flagging tape). RG’s Auto Marine Sales and Service 250-632-7722 741 Enterprise Avenue,Kitimat BC 18 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada Clague Mountain From here the trail is not as obvious but it drops down to a small stream and continues up through meadow like terrain before entering the timber again and joining in with a very old piece of mining road. At this point the trail begins to climb more aggressively with one very steep section (just beyond the end of the mining road). Once up this section, you get into some beautiful sub-alpine meadows and gentle terrain before the trail again begins to climb steadily. Keep your eyes peeled for trail markers (flagging tape) and eventually rock cairns to take you up to the peak which is still an hour or two away. To The Cabin At the junction (noted above) following the trail to the left for 1.5 km (30-45 minutes) will take you to the cabin. It gently climbs to take you past a small lake (‘Donut’ Lake) and continuous meadows until it joins in with old ATV tracks and within minutes the cabin. If experienced and deciding to try for the summit, from behind the cabin you can try to follow the remnants of an old unmaintained trail but it is difficult to follow and therefore not recommended. Note: Old ATV tracks in the area can be a source of potential confusion so pay particular attention for trail signs and markers. (Elevation 1350m) GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD27): Parking Lot/Trailhead= 519368E / 5992364N (NAD83= 518261E / 5992558N) Peak / Cabin Trail Junction = 517938E / 5992816N End old mining road= 517359E / 5992938N Peak=514809E / 5993176N PIZZA • BBQ • PASTA WINGS • DESSERTS “up the hill” 250-639-9241 171 NECHAKO CENTRE PICK UP OR DELIVERY View our menu and specials at www.pizzarama.ca DEBIT, VISA AND MASTERCARD ACCEPTED RIGHT AT YOUR DOOR! Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 19 Mount Elizabeth Advanced (10-12 Hours Return) Drive north on Highway 37 and turn right when you see the Mount Elizabeth sign (approximately 7.5 km from The Kitimat Chamber of Commerce Office). Stay on North Hirsch Mainline for approximately 14 km. The hike begins on the left, 200 m past the creek. There is a sign on your right indicating the trail. Park your vehicle here unless you have 4 WD or an ATV and continue up the deactivated logging road on foot. NOTE: The condition of this road can vary from year to year and may not always be drivable! There is an overgrown fork in the road at the first switchback, keep to your left (obvious). At the end of this road (approximately 3 km from your vehicle) the actual trail starts. Detailed trail information kiosk with map is located at the trailhead. Mount Elizabeth is a difficult 5 km trail (to the summit) and is only recommended for experienced hikers. Please be aware of sudden weather change, such as fog and low cloud, if this occurs turn back immediately. Proper footwear is recommended for this hike. Depending on your ability, you may choose to hike to one of the following: Lookout (2-2.5 Hours one way) The lookout is located in sub-alpine and takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours to hike up to. It provides a great view of Kitimat for those once in a lifetime photographs. Kitimat 884 Lahakas Blvd. Kitimat, BC Phone 250-632-4626 20 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada Mount Elizabeth Little Elizabeth (3.5-4.5 Hours one way) If you are an advanced hiker, you can continue to Little Elizabeth from the Lookout which is another 2 hours of hiking. This is a physically demanding hike up the spine of the ridge where you will be required to tackle some steep & rocky pitches. You will encounter loose rock and depending on the time of year, a few snow patches which can be slippery. Be sure to stay on the trail which follows along the ridge and is marked by a series of rock cairns inter-visibly placed from alpine to the peak. (elevation 1750m) Summit of Mount Elizabeth (5-6 Hours one way) From the peak of Little Elizabeth, expect another 1 to 1.5 hours of additional hiking time. Follow the trail due north, down a small hill and then up to the summit of Mount Elizabeth. The last half of this hike is a very difficult trail of loose rocks. Early in the season parts of this section can be also be covered by patches of snow so use caution and common sense if considering a summit attempt. (elevation 1850m) GPS Reference Points: (Datum NAD27): Mt. Elizabeth ’14 km’ road turnoff= 536328E / 5992140N Trailhead/KIOSK= 537025E / 5992617N Sub-Alpine= 538428E / 5993540N Little Elizabeth= 540197E / 5994196N Mt. Elizabeth Peak= 540068E / 5994734N 250-632-3232 329 City Centre Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 21 Douglas Channel Blue Heron Charters Phone 250.639.9359 Cell 250.639.5101 Email jcjse@telus.net Half Day, Full Day & Overnight Packages Private Washroom & Heated Cabin www.blueheroncharters.com Luxury Fishing Day Charters Corporate Charters High End Equipment Provided Accommodation Packages Available Custom Built 34’ Lifetimer Transport Canada Certified and Registered Screamin’ reels . . . Book your adventure today! office 778-631-2995 • mobile 250-639-6479 screaminreelscharters@yahoo.ca www.screaminreelskitimat.com 22 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada ...on the ocean Kayakers who venture out into the Douglas Channel are rewarded with stunning scenery, a few wonderful beaches, incredible rock formations, and the chance to see some wildlife, including whales, on occasion. Accessing the northerly end of the Channel offers destinations like North Cove, Bish Cove and Emsley Cove along the west side. If launching at Kitamaat Village on the east side, Wathlsto Creek around to Gobeil Bay and the cove at the north point of Coste Island are great day trips. The Channel has much to offer the experienced kayaker, including many challenges. Anyone heading out on the water for even a few hours needs to be prepared for these challenges. Weather in our area can change quickly and prevailing southerly winds can whip up thundering whitecaps in what seems like a few moments and very often on warm summer days (inflows!) It is important to be aware that in the Channel there are not many places to beach a kayak. Most of the coastline is sheer rock face or steeply tumbled boulders. There are a few beaches where landing is mostly fine at mid to high tides but at lower tides can show a disconcerting number of large boulders or sticky mudflats. Some of these beaches can totally disappear at higher tides. Most of these beaches have no clearing above them for purposes of camping. These areas are generally too steep. Less experienced kayakers can practice at Lakelse Lake where launching is easy from the park at Furlong Bay. Robin Willis Stand Up Paddle Boarding is the newest water sport craze to reach the Douglas Channel. A perfect sport to try on the no wind days here in Minette Bay. Kayaking on the Douglas Channel Rentals (MK Bay Marina) Clinics and Courses Full Day Excursions Overnight Tours on Request Accommodation Packages Available Screamin’ reels . . . so much mo . . . book your adventure today! office 778-631-2995 • mobile 250-639-6479 screaminreelscharters@yahoo.ca www.screaminreelskitimat.com Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 23 Kitimat The Onion Lake Ski Trails have over 35 km of groomed trails, including 5 km of lit trails for night skiing. The trail system has been built to suit a variety of skill levels and still provide easy access to many small lakes and spectacular views of the valley. All trails start and finish in the stadium. A warming hut, parking and toilets are available next to the stadium free of charge for season pass holders and day users. Day users can purchase day passes from the ticket booth located at the trail head. The Moose Hut is also available to members for day and overnight use. Night skiing is available every night after dark. To turn on the trail lights, press the big red button on the west side of the ticket booth. The lights will stay on for a 2 hour period each time the button is pressed. 250-632-2289 360 City Centre www.vitalitycenter.ca MASSAGE THERAPY (RMT) NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE SPA SERVICES Andrea DeSousa Tira Connell Lauren Howell Derek Sherk Dr. Michelle Dowker Catherine Barrette RAc. Dr. Van Schalkwyk ACUPUNCTURE EVER AFTER LASER Shari Pereira BOTOX AND FILLERS RESTORE WELLNESS BAR INFRARED SAUNA Facials Manicures/Pedicures Waxing Aromatherapy Massage Thai Reflexology Tanning Hot Stone Massage Gifts • Clothing • Accessories • Gift Certificates Darcy Dawson & Rhea Bachand 48 Anderson Street Kitimat, BC V8C 1A4 250-632-9760 250-632-1279 darcy.d@telus.net Private Entrance Wireless Internet Indoor Hot Tub & Sauna Comfortable Living Area Home Cooked Meals Available 24 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada ...in the winter The Kitimat Snowmobile Club maintain the trails to Robinson Ridge and Clague Mountain. They also maintain a cabin at both of these sites and those who use the cabins are asked to leave them as they found them. The dues collected from club membership assist in the costs of maintaining the cabins and trails. Those who enjoy snowshoeing and backcountry skiing will also appreciate the scenic snow covered mountains accessed by these mountain trails. Additional information is available at www.kitimatsnowmobileclub.com. What’s iN store? ThrifT Shop Family Clothing • Books Toys • seasonal supplies sporTing equipmenT FurniTure • appliances craFT supplies • music Family Clothing • Books Toys • seasonal supplies 169 Nechako ceNtre • kitimat Bc • 250-632-2354 Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 25 Kitimat Hotel rooms recently renovated 506 Enterprise Avenue Kitimat, BC V8C 2E2 250-639-6024 Pub • Liquor Store Free Internet • Cable TV Shuttle Service www.kitimathotel.com Residential • Commercial • Industrial Fabrication • Installation • Service Plumbing • Heating • Roofing Structural Steel Quality Through Craftsmanship 250-632-6859 • 245 Third St • www.101industries.com 26 Kitimat • British Columbia • Canada Photo Credits: Michele Parsons Andreas Handl Lisa Krevenchuk Wanda Ouwehand District of Kitimat Kelly Marsh Rene Grabner Ruth Mills Harry Gladwin April McLeod Rosemary Brady Screamin” Reels Community Sites & Trails Trail Heads Emergency Call 911 Police - FireDistrict - Medical of Kitimat 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. Snowflake Park Fairgrounds and Horse Trails - Hwy 37 Community Rifle Range - Hwy 37 Hirsch Creek Park - Hwy 37 Hirsch Creek Canyon - Hwy 37 Forest Avenue Mountain Bike Trails Pine Creek Trail - Kitamaat Village Coghlin Park - Haisla Boulevard High School Trail - Smith Street Coho Flats Trail - Baxter Street Fisherman’s Trail - Haisla Boulevard Radley Park Campground - Haisla Boulevard Giant Spruce Park - Dike Road North Cove Trail - Alcan Road to Bisch Creek To report a forest fire 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 from a cellular phone Toll Free 1-800-664-6554 • www.tourismkitimat.ca 27 V A LL E Y W O N S For all your vehicle, fleet/leasing, and rental needs just stop in or call any one of the SVF team Todd Bellamy General Manager Brad Opheim Fleet Manager Jeff Hockman Sales Consultant Gage Bellamy Sales Consultant Snow Valley Ford in Kitimat 405 Enterprise Ave I 250-632-6181 I 1-800-304-6181 www.snowvalleyford.ca