We try to hike the Embleton trails in all 4 seasons and there are different rewards each month.   Our most recent venture was in June, planned for a specific time to see the chocolate lilies in bloom at the top.    While hiking these trails, I was reminded why this is one of our area's premier hike destinations:

1. The Viewpoints

We prefer to go up the eastern trails and come down the western ones.   The ridges on the west side have a many viewpoints, but the route is steep and more enjoyable going down.  Views of Heffley Lake and the valley are numerous.

2. An Organized Trail System

What a pleasure it is to go to a trail system that has established parking areas, trailhead signs, junction signs, and well-defined trails.   Kamloops has very few of these.

3. Pavilion

At the top of the trail system is a pavilion/gazebo and a place to sit.    On the upper slopes, wildflowers are abundant.

4. Wildflowers

One of the best displays of chocolate lilies is in mid-June on the uppermost meadow.    In the upper areas, we also saw Indian paintbrush, larkspur, gaillardia, pussytoes, peavine, clematis, shooting star, yarrow, and lupines.   Soon there will arnica, columbine, fireweed, hawkweed, aster, daisy, tansy and dozens of other species.  

5.   The Forest

Although most of the hillside has been logged at various times, there are some older larger trees on the west side.    Large grove of aspen trees on the west side offer some variety.  Remains of shingle mills and horse logging can be found along the trails, especially on the Old Mills Trail.    There are a number of route options for a shade-protected hike in deep summer.

6. Heffley Lake

Access to the lake is right across the road from Embleton.   A swim in the summer, camping at the new campsite, or paddling along the lakes make the area a destination for those of us who enjoy the outdoors.

7. Multiple Route Choices

Trails are well-designed, with a loop for everyone.   A different route can be taken with each visit.   In winter, we use the lower loops.   Reasonable grades and a variety of routes makes this a trail system for everyone.

8.   A Model

The Kamloops Trails Alliance hopes to see more trails like these in our area, but it is a tough sell in times of economic downturn, political uncertainty, and diminished bureaucracies.    We have just a small handful of well-established trail systems in our area.   Embleton is a model for what our area can offer for the future.

9. Non-motorized trails.

Motorcycles and ATVs are not allowed on the trails and the single tracks are not suitable for any of these.   If you encounter one, tell them they are not welcome.

10.   Did I mention the chocolate lilies on top?