In the first week of September the target for a new route to hike was Bluenose Mountain. It is located to the east of Vernon by backroads near Lavington. The trailhead is up the Bluenose Road and there is a signed parking lot and trailhead. A good trail switchbacks up the first steep rocky hill, then traversed over to climb a second hill. A separate trail can be hiked through the forest back to the start for a 5.5 – 6 km loop route.
The first climb was steep, but manageable with switchbacks. A side trail climbs on top of the hill. Open views to the south, west, and northwest from rocky ledges make the climb worthwhile. Sharp eyes (and preferably binoculars can spot the top of Silver Star Mountain to the north (19 km). The trail was well-marked (thanks to the Vernon Outdoor Club), winding downhill, over a ridge, then down to the foot of the next hill. The second hilltop was also open, with views to the east, all the way to the Monashee Mountains (the Monashee Provincial Park area).
The downhill route followed a good line and then wound through the mixed forest (pine, fir, and cedar) back to the trailhead. The entire hike (with short breaks) was about 2.5 hours.
Shared here are some photos from the hike. Click an image for more information, or scroll through the slideshow embedded below.
- A Youtube video on this hike will soon be published on the Ramble On Channel.
- Directions – Vernon Outdoors Club
