Big Bar Provincial Park has a 5km/3.5mi Otter Marsh Interpretive Trail around scenic wetlands, affording great bird and wildlife viewing opportunities. As well, a multi-use four season trail off Big Bar Road, created by the local Clinton Snow Jockey Club, provides gentle easy hikes of varying lengths to amazing backcountry areas.
To access the trail, drive north from Clinton 50km/31mi on Highway 97 to Big Bar Road, then west for 6km/3.7mi. The popular North Clinton Trails, also known as the Big Bar Ski Trails, also has well marked routes for relaxing family hikes.
Hiking Clinton Falls
Explore Clinton Falls on Mound Road just 10 minutes from town. A wide spot along Mound Road where a gas pipeline crosses, leads to a trail with a series of three waterfalls. The total walk is only about 1km/0.6mi, taking 15 minutes – not counting the time spent admiring the falls.
Hiking Marble Range
Marble Range with its layers of limestone karsts offers one of the best ridge hiking spots in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region. Marble Range features gentle sloping peaks, peaceful wooded groves, spacious grassy valleys, and alpine ridges – great terrain for experienced hikers. Note: Marble Range does not have marked or maintained trails, and is infrequently patrolled.
Hiking Mount Kerr
Trails to Mount Kerr through Wild Horse Ridge (23km/14mi return), and Mount Bowman (14km/8.7mi return) can be explored on day or overnight trips. Hikes range from moderate to difficult depending on the trail. Hikers must park vehicles off Jesmond Road near Circle H Ranch, and ask permission to cross the property to access trailheads. The beginning of the trail is signed "Pipeline Trail" at the back of the ranch. After about 4.2km/2.6mi the trail divides: The left trail leads to Mount Bowman, while the right trail follows up the creek valley towards Wild Horse Ridge and on to Mount Kerr.
Chasm Park Trail
Chasm Park Trail in Chasm Provincial Park has some breathtaking views of an 8km/5mi long canyon known as the Painted Chasm, formed by stages of glacier melt thousands of years ago. The geological layers of lava flow show the various colours created by intense temperature changes and shifts in the earth's rock layers over time. Note: Practice caution, as trails are not patrolled.
Practical Points
- When hiking in unfamiliar territory or off the beaten path, inform someone the day's hiking plans, travel in pairs or groups, and bring a GPS and plenty of water.
- Dress appropriately for the weather, and wear proper hiking footwear.
- Inexpensive hiking guide books can be purchased at the Village of Clinton Municipal Hall or the Museum.
Ask for more general hiking information, or directions to other points of interest, such as Cougar Point, Churn Creek Falls, and Loon Lake at the Clinton Visitor Centre.
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