Spion Kop

 

Thanks to the tireless dedication of the Walk Around Lake Country outdoor group, Spion Kop Mt. offers the public a trespass-free, well-signed and sanctioned trail network.  This height of land offers an excellent example of what could be accomplished on Rattlesnake Mt., Conkle Mt., Campbell Mt. and numerous local heights of land in the valley. Click on the image above to greatly enlarge it. Note that Google Earth does not yet show the new highway to the right of the mountain.

Uber Kudos to WALC for their hard work and dedication! The following text is a near-direct expression of trail descriptions offered in the Walk Around Lake Country pamphlet, produced by WALC and funded by the District of Lake Country.  You may chose to view the original printout and some additional details by clicking this link

Spion Kop's trails are intermediate to advanced in nature, and allow access to all manner of outdoor recreationalists, including hikers, bikers, trail-runners and equestrians.

Below is a full list and brief descriptions of the trails to be found on Spion Kop:

Arrowleaf Trail: This main trail connects the Upper Lakes trailhead to the Grand Overlook.  Stop along the way to take in the beautiful views of Wood Lake and the Oyama benchlands.  As you start to climb you will cross pioneer horse-logging trails.  Vistas continue to expand as you ascend, with additional lakes coming into view.

Lupine Trail: Connects Arrowleaf trail to the North Overlook.  This trail passes through a cooler climate zone, notable through the abundance of fir trees and moss.  Watch for “twister sisters” - a rare tree growth.

Paintbrush Trail: This main trail connects Raven Ridge trailhead to the Grand Overlook.  It initially climbs through cool, forested, soon breaking out into amazing vistas over Okanagan Lake.

Ridgeline Trail: This loop off Paintbrush trail travels along the top of an old glacial ridge, offering striking views of Okanagan Lake, Terrace Mt. and Fintry Landing.

Summit Trail: This challenging trail is perfect for those seeking a workout; it features the greatest elevation gain to the peak of Spion Kop (473m - 1555ft.).  You’ll enjoy several cool forested areas and pass under a spectacular basalt cliff near the top where it joins Tower trail to the summit.

Tower Trail: Connects the Grand Overlook to the summit of Spion Kop.  This trail is quite steep, featuring a short scramble near the summit.

Raptor Trail Loop: This easy loop takes you along a bluff with dramatic views of Wood Lake and the Oyama Benchlands.  The area is home to many large raptors - see if you can spot the eagle nests!  Raptor trail loop will guide you through the north underpass and back to the trailhead along parts of the Old Mission Rd., constructed in the late 1800’s.

 

Enjoy the area, and if you happen upon someone from the WALC group, thank them or buy em' a drink - as they've created a real gem here!

  

Low:400m | High:873m | Length:Varies| Water:Not Potable | Cell Access:Full