Hiking trails abound in the Monashee Mountains around Christina Lake. Routes range from relaxed creek side rambles, suitable for walkers of any ability, to endurance-testing alpine climbs for experienced trekkers only. Cross the longest railway trestle on the former Canadian Pacific Railway line, plunge into dark tunnels, view hidden Cascade Falls and explore the ghosts of long-gone mining towns. Many of these trails are also ideal for mountain biking and horseback riding.
The Christina Lake community website provides specific information for 13 trails in the immediate area along with an overview map. An additional 48km/30mi of trails lead to lakes and lookouts in Gladstone Provincial Park at the north end of the lake.
Trans Canada Trail
Through the Christina Lake region, the Trans Canada Trail follows the rail bed of the Columbia & Western Railway (a former CPR subsidiary), which ran from the Kootenay Rockies to Midway where it connected with the Kettle Valley Railway. Walk to three favourite points of interest near the village including the longest trestle on the CPR (152m/500ft), a shorter trestle that spans scenic Cascade Gorge and, accessed via a short side trail, Cascade Falls.
Badger Trail
The trailhead for this 2.3km/1.4mi hike is on the east side of Christina Lake, north of the village centre near the Texas Creek Campground. Rated easy to moderate, the only tough section is a series of rocky steps at the south end of the trail. Stop to take in sweeping views of the lake and mountains.
Christina Crest Trail
Not for the faint of heart, this 20km/12.4mi hike takes two days and ascends 550m/1800ft to the summit of Mt Saint Thomas. It is one of the few trails in the area that reaches alpine meadows. Be prepared before tackling this remote wilderness trail, rated moderate to difficult.
Dewdney Trail
Walk right into history on a trail that was begun in 1865 by Edgar Dewdney and served as the main transportation corridor in the area until a road was pushed through in the 1920s. The Boundary Forest District maintains a 15.3km/9.5mi section, but the trail continues another 24km/15mi to Sheep Creek near Rossland. Rated easy to moderate.
Stop by the Christina Lake Visitor Centre, located in the fire hall on Swanson Road, or visit the community website for information on hiking trails.
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