Ref: ihikebc.com
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Halfway up the 17-kilometer road, we started biking.
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Hike:
RT 3.75; 2.25 up. This weekend, Milan and I decided to migrate to
Osoyoos to do a reconnaissance for Snowy Mountain's adventure. The
weather forecast predicted light rain; we hoped for a few lulls here
and there. Milan also planned side trips he believed the kids would
enjoy,
so we brought the bikes. Saturday, we casually made our way to Keremeos,
stopping along the way. We located the service road we outlined for
Snowy Mountain's access; it didn't look promising. We walked the
initial section. Milan said it was
drivable; instead of spending our afternoon driving it, he favoured
committing to it when we would return for an attempt
at summitting. With much of the afternoon left, we opted to climb Mount
Kobau on the
way to Osoyoos. From that summit, we were hoping to get a good view of
Snowy's current conditions. Mount Kobau's 17-kilometer gravel road is
well-used and in good shape. The hike
to the summit is very short; to get a bit of exercise, we parked the
truck halfway and biked to the trailhead. The grade is perfect for pleasant riding. Once at the trailhead, we left the bikes
behind and continued on foot. The weather was better than expected; we
enjoyed a nice summit stay without feeling pressed to return. Mount
Kobau isn't a big exploit; however, it is worth a visit as it boasts a great 360˚ view of the
Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys. For anyone looking to make this
outing more challenging, bike the whole road up!
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Nice view of Osoyoos Lake along the way.
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The bike ride up is relatively easy.
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Barren landscape higher up.
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Several stops along the way.
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At the trailhead.
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Short distance to the summit.
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Charred dead-standing trees.
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Last steps before reaching the summit.
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A rock shelter dots the top.
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Milan points at Snowy Mountain, our next objective.
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Due south in the US is Chopaka Mountain South (left) and Hurley Peak that hides Chopaka Mountain (center).
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Summit marker.
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North-western view over the vast summit plateau.
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We're enjoying decent weather and lovely views.
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Shelling out water.
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Standing on remaining snow.
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Saddling up for the descent on the road.
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Fast way back to the truck.
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Well-deserved snack!
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| Back
to home page
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