A level, shaded walk around Champion Ponds. Great for birdwatches and views of the Columbia River Valley. Readily accessible and ideal for anyone of any age.
Difficulty: Easy A1
Elevation gained: 0m
Key Elevations:
Distance: 5km loop
Time: 1½ -2 hours
Season: Year around
Map: 82F/5 Castlegar
Drive: 0.0km From the junction of Hwy 3 and 22, at the overpass in Castlegar, travel east on Highway 3 towards Salmo for 7.2km.
7.2km. Park at the Highway Rest Area and Viewpoint. The trail begins on the rock knoll behind the toilets.
Trail: The first part dips off the rocky knoll into a mixed forest – the poplar and larch trees make this spectacular in the fall. Champion Pond usually has waterfall. A huge erratic along the trail hints at the power of the glacier that swept the area 10,000 years ago, leaving the huge boulder in its wake. A short diversion to the ridge gives a panoramic view down the Columbia River towards Genelle. Hawks and eagles often soar along the rocky ledges and river.
Once the snow arrives, this trail is a popular snowshoe loop. At the 1.5km mark is a junction – this is a 2km loop no matter which way you go.
Bring binoculars and camera.
Dog and bike friendly. Caution above the many cliffs.
Facilities: Self-guiding Interpretive brochure. Pit toilets at parking area, 2 picnic shelters, benches, pit toilets at first picnic area (1.5km junction).
