Trail name: Battle Bluff
Location: North Kamloops
Difficulty: Medium
Distance: Just shy of 5 kilometres
Time: 1.5 - 2 hours return trip
Located around 20 minutes from the downtown core, Battle Bluff is located in North Kamloops. From wherever your starting point may be, head towards the Kamloops airport along Tranquille Road. You will want to pass the airport and the Kamloops Golf and Country Club and continue along Tranquille until reaching a fork in the road.
Once you reach the fork in the road, take the right fork and cross the train tracks. Stay on this road until the hairpin turn. On your left, there will be a turn off marked Frederick Road. Take this road and follow until you reach the third parking lot on your left. This is where you will park and start your hike.
On this hike, you’ll start on a double track with clear signage and a clear path. You’ll come across a couple of old, rusty cars and when you see the second rusted car, looking southeast, you should have a beautiful view of Kamloops Lake, of old railway telegraph lines and of the Battle Bluff summit.
Further ahead, you will come upon another fork in the trail, take the right-hand trail which will lead you down into the valley and to your final ascent. You will know you have made it to the summit once you come across an amazing rock sculpture! When taking in the views at the top, to the east you will have a clear view of Cooney Bay and of Kamloops. If you look to the west, you will see the beautiful Kamloops Lake.
This trail is dog-friendly and can be done by most. It starts with a nice stroll through the woods and a descent before the final climb to the summit. Just remember not to use all of your energy on your way to the top because the way down is a decent leg burner. This hike can be done year round, but make sure to always dress for the weather and know that you may need to use snowshoes or crampons — footwear to improve mobility on snow and ice — during the winter months. Be sure to have water and snacks for yourself and your furry friend.
Hope to see you in the hills. Take only photographs and leave only footprints!
