The arid beauty of Kamloops, British Columbia, offers an outdoor experience unlike any other in Canada. Known for its unique geography and abundance of outdoor activities, Kamloops is a destination that caters to adventurers. Among its offerings, the Grasslands Community Trail stands out, weaving through one of the most significant protected ecosystems in the province. This trail combines accessible hiking with the opportunity to witness a fragile yet stunning natural environment. This article walks you through every detail, ensuring you’re ready to experience the Grasslands Community Trail firsthand.
An Introduction to the Grasslands Community Trail
The Grasslands Community Trail spans approximately 14 kilometres, stretching from the McQueen and Isobel Lakes area to Deep Lake in Westsyde. Designed as a point-to-point trail, it is moderately challenging, with varying elevations and terrains that appeal to hikers of different skill levels.
The trail transitions between forested sections, open grasslands, and ridges, offering changing scenery throughout. It’s particularly popular in spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural environment is at its most dynamic. While the entire trail takes most of a day to complete, you can explore shorter sections for a less time-intensive outing. Before setting out, it’s essential to know how to access the trailheads and plan your journey accordingly.
Getting to the Trailheads
Upper Trailhead
The upper trailhead begins near McQueen and Isobel Lakes. To reach it, drive north through the Lac du Bois Grasslands Protected Area and take a right onto the McQueen–Isobel Forest Service Road. The trailhead is located approximately three kilometres from the road’s end. Parking here is limited to two or three vehicles, and a small kiosk provides basic information about the trail.
Lower Trailhead
The lower trailhead is located near Deep Lake in Westsyde. Access it by turning up Ida Lane from Westsyde Road. Parking is also limited at this end, with some visitors opting to park at the nearby Westsyde Shopping Centre. From this point, three connecting trails lead up to Deep Lake and onward to the main Grasslands Trail. Once on the trail, hikers will see a variety of landscapes, each offering its highlights.
Trail Sections and Highlights
McQueen Lake to Long Lake Road
This section of the trail begins in a dense forest along McQueen Creek. Hikers cross the creek several times, with the sound of flowing water adding to the experience. As you continue, the landscape shifts to open grasslands. These areas showcase the wide-open spaces for which the region is known, with views stretching across rolling hills.
Long Lake Road to Deep Lake
From Long Lake Road, the trail climbs over ridges, providing a more challenging hike. These middle grasslands feature a mix of native plants and occasional wildlife sightings. The final stretch descends toward Deep Lake, offering a peaceful conclusion to the hike. The varied terrain makes this section particularly rewarding for those seeking a balance of challenge and scenery.
Practical Tips for Hikers
Preparation and Safety
Always carry sufficient water, sunscreen, and a hat, as shade is limited along much of the trail. Hiking boots with good grip are recommended, as some sections can be uneven. Let someone know your plans and estimated return time before heading out. As you explore sections like McQueen Lake to Long Lake Road, preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable hike.
Trail Etiquette
To help preserve this fragile ecosystem, stay on designated paths and pack out all waste. Avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect cattle grazing in some areas by keeping a safe distance. Following these principles helps maintain the trail’s ecological balance and ensures a positive experience for all visitors.
Best Times to Visit
The Grasslands Community Trail is at its best in spring and fall. Spring offers blooming wildflowers and cooler temperatures, while fall provides comfortable weather and changing foliage. Summer hiking is less appealing due to high temperatures and limited shade, but early morning hikes can still be enjoyable. Planning your visit during these optimal seasons enhances the trail experience.
The History and Preservation of the Lac du Bois Grasslands
In 1996, the Lac du Bois Grasslands Protected Area was established to preserve the rare grassland ecosystems of the region. Covering over 15,000 hectares, this area is home to an array of plant and animal species found nowhere else in British Columbia. Historically, these grasslands were vital for Indigenous communities, serving as areas for hunting, gathering, and cultural practices. Archaeological evidence, including artifacts and ancient campsites, highlights the deep connection Indigenous peoples have to this land, underscoring its cultural importance.
The arrival of European settlers in the mid-1800s brought significant changes to the area. The rolling grasslands became a hub for ranching and agriculture, a use that continues today. Historic ranches and remnants of homesteads reflect this period of settlement. To balance agricultural use and conservation, a fenced pasture rotation system was introduced in 1977, leading to notable improvements in the health of the grasslands.
Conservation efforts gained momentum in the late 20th century, culminating in the protected designation of the area. Organizations like the Nature Conservancy of Canada have been instrumental in managing and preserving the landscape. These efforts ensure the protection of the ecosystem and its cultural heritage for future generations.
The Grasslands Community Trail is one of the many ways visitors can connect with this region. It offers a close-up look at the interplay of grasslands, forests, and aquatic habitats while minimizing the impact on these sensitive ecosystems.
The Unique Ecology of Lac du Bois Grasslands
Flora
The trail’s grasslands are dominated by bluebunch wheatgrass and sagebrush, with pockets of Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir. During spring, wildflowers like arrow-leaved balsamroot, lupines, and mariposa lilies add splashes of colour, making this an ideal time for plant enthusiasts. The lower elevations showcase bunchgrasses like bluebunch wheatgrass and junegrass, while higher elevations transition to Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir forests. Big sagebrush is also common in southern sections, coexisting with grasses in drier areas.
Fauna
Wildlife is abundant along the trail. Mule deer and black bears are occasionally spotted, along with a variety of birds, including the long-billed curlew. Bighorn sheep can often be seen navigating rocky outcrops, while moose frequent wetter areas within the grasslands. Bird enthusiasts may encounter sharp-tailed grouse, known for their striking mating dances, or flammulated owls in adjacent Douglas-fir forests. Reptiles, such as the Western rattlesnake and gopher snake, are also present, thriving in the dry, rocky habitats.
The diversity of wildlife highlights the ecological importance of this protected area. Visitors are encouraged to observe from a distance and avoid actions that might disrupt these species.
Why the Ecosystem is Fragile
The Lac du Bois Grasslands Protected Area is one of the rarest and most delicate ecosystems in British Columbia. Its fragility stems from several factors:
Limited Resilience: Grasslands rely on specific conditions, such as low precipitation and well-drained soils. Disturbances like overgrazing or invasive species can easily disrupt the balance, and recovery is slow.
Scarcity: Grasslands have diminished significantly due to urban development and agriculture. The loss of habitat means even minor damage can have significant consequences.
Sensitive Species: Plants like bluebunch wheatgrass and animals like the long-billed curlew are highly adapted to this environment. Human activity, such as hiking off-trail or introducing invasive species, can threaten their survival.
Slow Regeneration: Trampled soil compacts quickly, making it difficult for native plants to reestablish. Damaged areas may take years to recover.
Climate Change: Rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns threaten the delicate balance of this ecosystem. Increased wildfire risk and drought conditions further exacerbate stress on native species.
Human Pressures: Recreational use, cattle grazing, and urban development continuously stress the environment, highlighting the importance of responsible use.
These factors make it essential for visitors to tread carefully, stay on designated paths, and follow Leave No Trace principles. Every step we take to protect this ecosystem ensures its survival for future generations.
Preserving the Grasslands Through Responsible Hiking
The Grasslands Community Trail exemplifies the unique natural beauty and cultural heritage of British Columbia. Hikers here become stewards of an ecosystem that thrives through responsible recreation. The preserved Indigenous history, diverse wildlife, and striking landscapes offer an experience that is both enriching and inspiring. By exploring this trail, visitors actively contribute to its conservation. Every step taken plays a role in protecting and appreciating the Lac du Bois Grasslands for generations to come.
