South West View from Idaho Peak
After a challenging (steep, very narrow, twisty, rough) 12.5 kilometer drive from Sandon there are two breathtaking trails to the top of Idaho Peak. The photo above is approximately one-quarter of the 360º view at the top (from the former forestry lookout). Each part of the 360º view is equally stunning.
If you look closely you can see a trail on the lower right side of the image. This is the final part of the trail along the ridge to the summit. Look even closer (at the bright green patch in the center of the image) and you might see the trail cut across and disappear into the trees.
Bonus:
Here’s the trail we took to the top (the foreground of this image is that green patch at the centre of the top photo). And yes the ground was frozen on September 24th; there’s some snow around and the path is very narrow in spots. One slip and you’d be down with the black bears and the grizzly that were seen below—one half hour earlier.
The lookout at the peak is that little box on the top right of the image. We saw two hang gliders around this time during our hike. And ten minutes later, met a man heading back down to his truck; his buddies—the hang gliders—needed no further assistance as they would be landing back home in New Denver. (from the peak, you can see all of New Denver and Silverton)
Here’s a last look more or less westward taken during the final part of hike to the peak. We had calm winds, mostly blue sky with just enough clouds to keep things interesting. A great number of photos were taken that afternoon, we hope you enjoy these three and perhaps visit Sandon and Idaho Peak one day.
It’s a magnificent country we live in, without a doubt.
We count ourselves fortunate not only to live here, but to be able to explore at a great time of year. It was a visual delight (even though it wasn’t a photo trip)!
Stupendously gorgeous, John. Thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome.
Spectacular !
Not to be missed if you are in the area, have time, and the weather cooperates.
Our son lives in Silverton…..we know that part of the country well and have traversed that road through Sandon…in fact yesterday I was sent a photograph of a Grizzly wandering the back streets of their village. Stupendous photographs..thank you
Defines a small town, Silverton does.
Grizzly in town, yikes.
That’s a wonderful drive up Hwy 6 from Slocan to Silverton and New Denver. Puts a capital S on scenery.