As the early morning sun rises above Observation Mountain, casting its golden light over the landscape, intrepid hikers set out on a journey they won’t soon forget.
Their goal is to reach the peak of the iconic mountain, where they can gaze out at the world below and revel in the beauty of nature.
However, Summit Trail is not for the faint of heart.
The trail, representing the ultimate test of the mountain, is a challenging ascent with an elevation gain of several hundred metres. The trail stretches several kilometres in length and rewards hikers with stunning views at every turn.
Observation Mountain stands tall and proud, a sentinel overlooking the peaceful town of Grand Forks. Yet half of local residents have not climbed the signature trail, according to a 2017 report from the Grand Forks Gazette.
As hikers climb its rocky paths, the world around them transforms, revealing a landscape of unparalleled beauty. Subalpine meadows, with their vibrant wildflowers and swaying grasses, give way to rocky outcroppings and craggy peaks. The Monashee Range and the Selkirk Mountains, with snow-capped peaks, loom in the distance.
At the halfway point of the trail, an adventurer is tempted to pause to catch their breath—er, to take in the scenery. Here, the snaking Kettle River Valley slithers below them, and in the opposite direction, vistas reveal a patchwork quilt of farms and fields, dotted with orchards and houses. The river, a pristine waterway that runs through the valley, sparkles in the sunlight, providing a vital source of life and inspiration to the area.
Hikers also encounter local flora and fauna, including the Pacific yew, Pacific dogwood, and western red cedar. The air is often filled with the sweet scent of pine and the chirping of birds as the Pine Marten and the Pika scurry through the subalpine grasses.
The final leg of Summit Trail is perhaps the most difficult, with steep switchbacks cutting their way up to the mountain’s peak. Here, hikers push themselves to their limits, driven by the desire to reach the top.
And at long last, one arrives at the peak! The view is extraordinary, with surrounding mountains and valleys stretching out as far as the eye can see. Hikers atop Summit Trail surely feel a sense of accomplishment and wonder as they gaze out at the majesty of the natural world.
Observation Mountain is a place of profound beauty and inspiration—a local landscape that draws hikers from across Boundary Country and beyond. The Summit Trail tests the human body and inspires the spirit.
For those who seek adventure among Boundary’s world-class outdoor recreation, the Summit Trail is an experience that should not be missed.
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