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Trail name: The Gorge Creek Trail
Trail Length: 1.7 kilometres
Trail Difficulty: Easy
Directions:
The trail is located at the Craigellache “Last Spike” rest area, off of the Trans-Canada Hwy, 25 kilometres East of Sicamous.
Description:
Throughout the Okanagan there are a couple places I consider to be hidden treasures. In my opinion the Gorge Creek Trail is one of them. Not only is the water along the creek just stunning, it is surrounded by a lush green forest! This unmaintained trail starts at the parking lot of the Last Spike. As we walked up the paved path way towards the highway, we made sure there were no vehicles in sight before crossing to the opposite side. Within a couple minutes of walking on the trail, the sound of traffic is soon replaced with the soothing sounds of water. As we followed the trail, we found the first marker with an arrow pointing us down to the first of three waterfalls. This smaller, but beautiful waterfall is called Fir Falls.
After admiring the waterfall we continued back to the main trail in search for the second. Within five minutes we found the trail sign for Cedar Falls.
We walked down the trail as it brought us into a moss lined canyon. It is kind of hard to get a good look at these falls, but its mystery makes it that much better. After taking some photos we walked back to the main trail to continue to the last waterfall. As you can guess the best is saved for last. After another 10-15 minutes, we followed the sign for Hemlock Falls down to the first viewpoint. Hemlock Falls consists of multiple waterfalls that make up its stunning qualities. Once we enjoyed this view, we went back to the main trail and continued on to the bridge. After crossing the bridge, we followed the trail along the creek. As the sound of rushing water grew louder, we were treated with a different view of Hemlock Falls.
From this point, the trail continues but it is closed. The Gorge Creek Trail was once a loop circuit but, unfortunately, a few large trees have fallen and broken the lower bridge. Until it is repaired, we have to go back and return to the parking lot the same way we came in.
It is important to use extreme caution when crossing the Trans-Canada Highway.
Always be mindful of your surroundings, PACK OUT what you PACK IN, stick to the trails and Happy Exploring!
Things to have :
- Good hiking shoes
- Water
- Bear Spray (always a good thing to carry)
- Camera/Phone
* Dogs are welcome
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