Hiking Above Juniper Ridge
On a sunny fall day I drove on roads to the upper west end of Juniper Ridge to the trailhead at the top of Balsam Place (Qu’Appelle > Coldwater > Balsam). An old double track starts at the end of the road and winds its way up the hill through the forest.
This is a route that has been there for a long time, well before Juniper Ridge was established. When I ran and hiked it 50 years ago, we came from Rose Hill Road.
The douglas fir forest gives way to mixed forest and some grasslands near Scott Road.
On the route are a few viewpoints, with some of those views shared here. Click an image for a lightbox view.
Part of the hike was along Scott Road, with a grasslands bench overlooking the valley.
This hike is moderate, covering 5 km, with a hill to climb, but rewarding views above the forest. A YouTube video on the Ramble On Channel is shared here.
The lighting in that first photo looking down the steep slope is absolutely glorious! It really captures the craggy, rugged essence of the terrain. I can almost feel the vast solitude and quiet peace that these juniper dotted ridges must provide. What a majestic little slice of heaven to explore.
Thanks for your comments, Mark. I checked out your fine website. I enjoyed the blogs, tips, and gear posts. A well-crafted website.
Link – Hiking Horizon
Thank you so much Kamloops!
Your highly appreciting comment made my day.
I love your post, and try to read as i get time.
Keep posting such wonderful experinces.