Opax is the steep and wide mountain between Lac du Bois, Pass Lake, and Tranquille Canyon.   There are three good routes to the top and they can be combined into a loop route.   In the winter, though, the route from the east provides the easiest access.

In each of the last three winters, we have trudged in the snow to the top.   Boots and gaiters are fine until the snow becomes too deep, then the route makes a good snowshoe trail.  

Take the Lac du Bois Road and when you arrive at McQueen Lake, look for the sideroad that angles up steeply west.   Most people will park at the bottom and follow the road up for 1km to the BC Forest Service kiosk and parking area.   There are three roads to choose from here.   The gated road north goes to Mud Lake.   The road south goes towards Lac du Bois.   The route west goes to the top of Opax Mountain.    Just follow the snowed-in double track, ignoring any minor side routes.   There are some viewpoints on the way up.   The best viewpoints are along the rim of the lava cliffs on the south and west side, but these spots require some bushwhacking and some navigation which fits drier conditions.   It can be easy to get lost on top of Opax by going off track, but in the winter time, we can choose an out-and-back route, following our own tracks back to the vehicle.      

For those willing to try a short off-trail route to a good viewpoint, follow these directions:

• Continue along the main road until you see a good side road at N50 48.985 W120 29.213
• Follow it to the end (see the map below; click to enlarge)
• Strike off through the forest to the Southeast for 265 m to the top of the ridge
• Return by the same route.

The route up and back is only about 7.5km.    Prepare for winter conditions and carry your mobile phone.