We were pleasantly surprised by the trails above Buse Creek.   We followed both snowshoe tracks and cross country ski tracks along backroads and side roads and created a loop.   We had explored these trails before on our way over to Bestwick Hill.   There is really a network of backroads on this gentle sidehill.   There are also some fences and gates, but in winter all the gates are left open.     None of the junctions are marked, but snowshoers can just follow the tracks already set.   Generally speaking, follow the lower road west for as long as you want, then turn south to come back by an upper trail to the start.   If you find the tracks peter out, you can always follow your own tracks back.   The main loops are 5 to 8km long, depending on how far you head west.   All of the routes are gentle.   Steeper sections lie south and anyone wanting to explore the upper ridges can add some climbs to the prominent Bestwick Ridge between the Robbins Range Road and the Campbell Range Road.   The area is forested with frequent open spots and some views toward Mt. Buse and beyond.   Most snowshoeing outings work out to 3km/hr so you can go out for 1.and a half to 3 hours.

Vehicle Access:

• drive out Barnhartvale Road and turn right onto the Campbell Range/Robbins Range Road
• At 2.67 km up the road, turn left onto the Robbins Range Road
• follow the Robbins Range Road for 6.6 km to the trailhead
• for those who know the trailhead for the Mt. Buse trail, go 1.1 km farther along the road
• look for snowshoe or XC ski tracks going west through an open area at N50 35.640 W120 01.506

The Route:

• the track is level as it aims west
• take the lower route at junctions for the first half of the outing
• go out and back or pick a left turn along the way, looking for tracks to follow
• explore various route possbilities,with the advantage of following your own tracks back, if needed