For a taste of history and a healthy dose of nature, head to Peachland's section of the historic Fur Brigade Trail. What was once a busy route for fur traders in the 1800s is now an 8-km hiking trail that provides sweeping views of the Okanagan Valley. The Peachland summit section is moderately challenging, with an elevation gain of 368 metres. It is ideal for hikers looking for an invigorating hike while becoming part of the area's storied past.
The Trail's History
The Fur Brigade Trail began as a network of trails walked by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. When fur traders entered the region in the early 1800s, they relied on these trails to transport furs from Northern BC to the Columbia River. The trail quickly became the main supply line for the Hudson's Bay Company, replacing the treacherous overland route through the Rockies. Though the trail's importance waned after the Treaty of Oregon in 1846, sections have since been preserved for their historical and natural significance.
Hiking the Peachland Summit Section
Trail Overview
- Length: 7.9 km (round trip)
- Elevation Gain: 368 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time Required: Approx. 2 hours 40 minutes (round trip)
- Route Type: Out & Back
- Washrooms: None
- Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash
- Wheelchair Accessible: No
Getting There
From Highway 97, take Hardy Street and follow it until it becomes Thorne Road which is a dirt road. Make a left onto Log Chute Road and continue as the road winds uphill. Park near the trailhead marked with a blue and white hiker symbol. If you reach the orchards, you've gone too far.
Trail Experience
The Peachland Summit section of the Fur Brigade Trail is generally a moderately challenging hike. It starts with a steady climb, offering glimpses of the landscape below. As you ascend, you'll pass the guestbook located about 1 km up the trail. Make sure to sign it before continuing to the summit. The trail takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
The route is popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and off-road drivers. Despite this, it's still possible to find solitude, particularly during the quieter times of the day. The summit viewpoint rewards hikers with stunning views over the valley, where you can see the Okanagan Lake and Peachland spread out below.
Preserving the Trail's Legacy
Sections of the historic Fur Brigade Trail have been lost to modern development, but the Peachland Historical Society and other local groups are working hard to preserve what's left.
Final Tips
- Bring water: There are no facilities along the trail, so pack enough water for the journey.
- Wear sturdy footwear: The trail is rugged in parts, and proper shoes will make a significant difference.
- Watch the weather: The trail is open year-round, but conditions can vary dramatically with the seasons.
Conclusion
As you hike the Peachland Summit section, you're walking in the footsteps of Indigenous travellers and fur traders alike, getting a glimpse back in time to an era when the Okanagan was a bustling hub for the fur trade. Embrace the history, the landscape, and the sense of adventure that comes with it.
