On left, a new connecting trail joins the horse crossing at Peers Creek.

The last of the gravel (donated last November by Hope Readymix) was spread along the trail near the parking lot. The gravel pile in the parking lot is now gone!

New Pathways to Gold Society partners Hope Mountain Centre were busy in August making improvements to the HBC Trail between Hope and Otter Lake. Since 2009, dramatic progress has been made in re-opening this historic fur trail over the Cascades.  Hikers and horseback riders can now enjoy a continuous wilderness trail that spans 50 kilometers of scenic alpine meadows and lush old-growth forest. Here’s an update from Hope Mountain Centre’s Kelly Pearce: Friends of the HBC Trail; Special thanks to the six volunteers who worked in the August heat yesterday, improving the HBC Trail at Peers Creek. Our crew came from Hope and Vancouver, and included; Darlene Reid, Anders Hopperstead, Aaron Snider, Rick Raynsford, Glen Keil, Edwin Watts. Some 36 hours of labour were donated to the trail and some great things were accomplished. 

Co-Chair Cheryl Chapman (center, with hammer) helps Terry Raymond et al put the trail marker in place.

What would a trail opening be without putting in place the permanent first trail marker? Everyone’s getting into this act; Co-chairs, Senators, Chiefs, Elders, provincial officials… and only one hammer between them…

… and so we’re done. What a great day! The number of people to thank is endless. So many people have worked hard to make this all happen, and the Senators seemed very moved by the experience. Their tour of the Lower Fraser Canyon continues tomorrow (see the Ladies of the Canyon thread). A relatively early night, some rest, and then, one last trip. Off to Canada’s Hot Spot to see some hot rocks!