We have been exploring hills in Barnhartvale this winter, even in the snow.   Lower areas can sometimes be a bit icy, but we either walk in the snow at the side or we put on our microspikes/yaks.   Once we start to climb, we just stomp through the snow, and it has been only mid-calf depth on exposed slopes but deeper in sheltered areas.    Good winter boots, gaiters, and hiking/trekking poles are recommended.

When we follow these new routes in winter, we are not always sure how distinct the trail is after the snow is gone.   The advantage of the winter is that hikers can just follow tracks in the snow, but fair-weather hikers may wish to wait until the spring for these types of hikes.

To try this route, go out Todd Road in Barnhartvale and turn onto Pratt Road.   Follow Pratt Road to the end.   There is a turn-around there and the hike starts at the yellow gate.   Beyond the gate are some well-established horse trails.    Follow the corridor as it goes beyond the last ranchettes, then the route splits with the through route (south) heading down towards the Campbell Creek Road, the power line going up to the right (west) and two routes going up to the left.   This posting is about the route to the left (east).

The forest is very open so we just have struck off up the hill following tracks, bearing to the lowest point on the ridge above.   Once the snows have melted, tracks can be followed or alternately hikers can go a little bit south, then follow the powerline up the hill.   Once you have crested the ridge a trail winds over the top of the ridge going north.   There is also a good viewpoint at the edge of the hill looking south.   The ridge has two prominent hilltops.   A third hilltop can be seen to the east, but this route requires a drop down through a large gully and steep climb back up.   We did this one too, but it will not be for everyone.

From the top of the ridge or from the south viewpoint, there is a good view down the Campbell Creek Valley.   On the other side, a line of hills in the Campbell Range are seen.   Bestwick Hill lies southeast, Mt. Vicars lies south-south-east.     Wild Horse Mountain lies south.    (Articles on these three are/will be posted).   We have enjoyed these routes and plan to return to them in the spring to see if we can link up this route to some horse/bike trails going north towards Meadowland and Todd Road.