Hiking
Two hikers admiring the views (Picture BC photo)
In the early 1800s, the only way to explore the Fraser Canyon near Lytton was following First Nations cliff-edge pathways or via logs suspended precariously over the water for safe passage.
Thankfully, today there are many alternate routes: paved and forestry roads, trails, campsites and provincial parks that lead to a variety of back-country excursions. Be prepared though, this can be hot and desolate country.
Lytton
In addition to some awe-inspiring trails in Botanie Valley, Skihist Provincial Park and the pristine Stein Valley, there are exceptional hiking and biking opportunities along the Fraser and Thompson rivers.
Botanie Watch Tower
First Nations call the valley "Pootanie" meaning 'blanket or lake of many flowers' which in spring certainly looks and smells like an aromatic sea of colour.
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Botanie Creek Road leads to several moderate walks; a more adventurous one is to a former Mountain Forest Lookout watch-tower. It begins roughly 6km/3.7mi from the bottom of Botanie Creek Road, switching back and forth for nearly 3km/1.7mi. Allow three hours to hike the round trip (rated moderate).
Yale
Spirit Caves
The Spirit Caves trail's steep switchbacks climb to an elevation of 500m/1,640ft, and a beautiful view of Yale and the Fraser River. The caves are at the top, partially hidden by large rocks. Set aside 3.5 hours to complete the 5km/3mi round trip (rated moderate).
Mt Lincoln
Stunning views of the Fraser Canyon make this demanding hike over steep, rocky bluffs worthwhile. Keep an eye out for the famous Lady Franklin Rock on the Fraser River, site of a "million dollar train wreck" in 1927. Be prepared to use fixed ropes in a few exposed locations. The 5km/3mi round trip hike clambers to 580m/1,900ft and takes approximately 3.5 hours (rated advanced).
Spuzzum
Alexandra Bridge
When it was completed in 1863, the original crossing was the province's first suspension bridge and the marvel of the Cariboo Wagon Road that made its way to Barkerville's gold fields. It spanned over 91m/300ft and cost CAD$45,000. In 1926, the bridge was rebuilt to carry automobiles as the Cariboo Hwy, and is the centerpiece of the 55ha/136ac Alexandra Bridge Provincial Park. Allow 30 minutes to complete the 2km/1.2mi round trip (rated easy).
First Brigade Trail
Named for Princess Alexandra of Wales, wife of the future King Edward VII, this former pack trail climbs a steep 760m/2,493ft from the canyon to Gate Mountain. The trail starts by a stream, passes a series of lakes and uphill to a rocky viewpoint of the canyon. On the east bank above the bridge, Alexandra Lodge stands as one of the few remaining original Cariboo roadhouses. The 13km/8mi round trip takes about 6 hours (rated advanced).
Check with the Lytton Visitor Centre for more details on where to hike around Lytton.
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