August 10, 2010 | Tips from Travellers >
New Hazelton, Sightseeing Tours
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One warm sunny evening, my friends and I went on an adventure to the Bulkley Canyon Gate. For years, I have heard stories about the Bulkley Canyon Gate and its mystical captivating features; however, despite a couple of previous attempts I had never seen “the gate” before last week.
The Bulkley Canyon Gate consists of three pillars of sandstone, which protrude out into the river to form “the gate”. It is an interesting, fascinating, and unique geological formation, which the Bulkley River rushes through.
In the past when I had tried to access the gate it was from the south side near Ross Lake Provincial Park; however, from there one only sees a small portion of the rock wall across the river as over the years the trees have grown and blocked the view. The North side of the Bulkley Canyon Gate can only be accessed by a guided ATV tour from Triple Creek Ranch.
Fortunately, my friends and I were offered a tour and we excitedly jumped at the opportunity. The four of us hopped on ATVs and popped our helmets on our heads and anxiously anticipated not only seeing, but also standing on the gate. Our guide, Ron Fowler, led us through a beautiful forested area, we passed by a swamp that is frequented by moose and bears, we also passed over a couple of small streams. While we were passing over one of the streams Ron pointed out that an indistinguishable animal had just passed through the stream before us as his wet tracks were visible on the dirt path.
After about 30 minutes of ATVing, we parked the ATVs and began our short trek through the forest to the edge of the canyon. We were met with surprise and awe as we walked out onto the gate with the sun beginning to set and beautifully lighting up the canyon and the thick, resistant layers of sandstone that protrude into the river to form “the gate”.
It was an unforgettable adventure and if you are interested in unusual geological landscapes or merely love the thrill of standing in a place where a limited number of people have stood before you, definitely check out the guided ATV tour to the Bulkley Gate!
August 08, 2010 | Tips from Travellers >
New Hazelton, Sightseeing Tours
On a warm August night, two friends and I wandered down to
the confluence of the Skeena and Bulkley Rivers to take in the scenery and go
for a quick evening walk. The evening was filled with lots of laughter as we
explored the cottonwood chairs, and skipped smooth river rocks across a still
pool of backwater.
The confluence of the Skeena and Bulkley rivers can be
accessed from the ‘Ksan historical museum and village parking lot (‘Ksan is
located 7km from New Hazelton along Hwy 62). One can wander down to the very
point where the large rivers join and watch the swirling waters as the rivers
mingle and blend into one.
The trail leading down to the point is lined with
several intriguing chairs cut out of recently fallen cottonwood trees. There
are also several trails that branch off the trail, which originally leaves the
parking lot. These trails allow you to loop through the bush and return via an
alternate route or even lengthen your walk through the forest.
Once you leave
the forest you will walk along smooth river rock until you encounter the
rushing waters of the rivers. From the point you will enjoy spectacular views
of the Roche De Boule Mountain Range as well as the riverbanks, and flood
plains - known as Anderson Flats Provincial Park.