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.
August 08, 2010 | Tips from Travellers >
New Hazelton, Hiking
Find more information about New Hazelton - Hiking
On a warm August day, two climbing partners and I climbed
Hagwilget Peak. Hagwilget Peak is the northern most peak on the Roche De Boule
mountain range. This majestic mountain towers over the Hazeltons and its rugged
shape is often regarded as a symbol for the Hazeltons.
Hagwilget Peak Trail is
suited for experienced hikers and climbers. You must be physically fit and not
afraid of heights, and you must also be prepared for quick weather changes.
At
3.3 kms on Station Creek trail there is a tree marked with flagging tape, at
this point you will turn right and follow a path down to a creek. Once you have
crossed the creek you will follow a flagged trail, which is worn through the
forest; however, it is not very well worn above tree line, up to the mountain
peak.
After the creek, there is not another water source for the remainder of
the hike; therefore, it is a good idea to carry plenty of water with you. If
you do use the creek water, it is a good idea to treat it.
Sections of the
trail are a moderate to difficult scramble and there are also a couple sections
that you will need to be able to pull yourself up. You must follow the flagging
tape above timberline; otherwise, you may find yourself in a difficult
situation.
On top of the mountain, there is a flagpole and a guest book – be
sure to sign it and read the local Gitxsan legend about the Mountain Goats of
Temlaham! Climbing Hagwilget Peak provides a sense of great accomplishment,
especially when you return to the valley floor and gaze upon its towering
beauty.
Editor's notes: Learn more about
hiking in the New Hazelton area.
August 06, 2010 | Tips from Travellers >
New Hazelton, Hiking
Find more information about New Hazelton - Hiking
This is one of my favourite trails in the Hazelton Area as the view is
outstanding and the access is quick and easy!
Skilokis Trail is located on the northwest
spine of Blunt Mountain. On this trail, depending on the speed that you travel,
you will be at tree line and viewing incredible scenery after hiking between
thirty and forty-five minutes. Not only will you be treated to spectacular
views of the surrounding mountains, but you will also see interesting mountain
vegetation and wildflowers.
The hiking trail starts at 1250 meters and travels
to 1950 meters. Throughout this trail you will need to pay close attention to
the flagging tape, as this is a primitive trail.
To access the trail one must travel east from New Hazelton on
Highway 16 for 10.5 kilometres, at this point you will turn left onto the
Suskwa Forest Service Road. After 6 kilometres on the Suskwa Forest Service
Road you will turn right onto the Skilokis Forest Service Road. This road is
slightly over grown and fairly steep therefore a four-wheel drive vehicle is
recommended.
While you are travelling up Skilokis Forest Service Road you should
always stay to the right when you encounter forks in the road. After 9.1
Kilometres, at the highest point of the road, which is about 300 meters before
the end of the road, you can pull
over, park, and look for the flagging tape that marks the trail.