Tikwalus Heritage Trail - June 21st 2023
Louise writes
June 21 is National Indigenous People Day so it seemed appropriate to hike an old Nlaka'pamux path turned fur-trading route above the Fraser Canyon. The trail was used for hunting, trapping and was a safe travel route that bypassed the canyon walls at Hell's Gate. There are many other trails that lace through the Fraser Canyon connecting villages and fishing sites. Enroute to the Tikwalus Heritage Trail we made a quick stop at Alexandra Bridge which spans the Fraser River.
We had a wet start to our day leaving Vancouver, the rain continued as we headed to the trailhead. The trail is long and steep with many switchbacks and before long we had taken off our rain gear. Around the 4km marker the trail starts to flatten out weaving through a grove of culturally modified cedar trees.
There is a campsite at the top of the trail with an outhouse and bear cache. It is possible to camp overnight then take the 17 Mile Creek Mule trail making it a circular route. However, you would need two vehicles as you have to leave a car further up the highway.
We took the Bluffs route down which follows the edge of a ridge high above the Fraser Canyon. Hiking down was just as challenging as hiking up by the end our knees were hurting but a good day was had by all.
Dave took all the photos!
