Pinnacle Lake Hike, British Columbia
Location: Cherryville, Britsh Columbia, Canada
Altitude: 1900 m
Elevation: 420 m
Hiking Time: 5hrs
Hiking Distance: 6.2 km Round Trip
Difficulty: Hard
Deep in the heart of the Monashee Mountain range, nestled within the majestic and awe-inspiring beauty, lies Pinnacle Lake. A picture-perfect haven located in the highlands of the popular Okanagan Valley, British Columbia. This glacial lake sparkles with pristine turquoise waters which is amplified by the surrounding ominous but beautiful snow-capped alpine peaks, seemingly standing guard over the lake below.
To uncover this nature's masterpiece, adventurers must embark on a grueling yet rewarding journey along a steep hiking trail. As you ascend, every step brings you closer to an elevation gain of 420 meters. At times, the trail demands utmost perseverance, requiring hikers to use all fours, clinging onto rocks and tree roots for stability. Yet, the exertion is soon forgotten as you become immersed in the untouched forests. Along the way, cascading mountain waterfalls beckon you to stop and enjoy a break and the fresh mountain air.
And finally, after persevering and allowing the trail to test your physical and mental endurance, you arrive at the crown jewel, Pinnacle Lake. Its cerulean waters mirror the surrounding peaks, creating a visual symphony that soothes the soul. As you stand on the lake's edge, contemplating the journey that brought you here, a choice lies before you. Do you succumb to pure tranquility and become lost in the mesmerizing reflections, or do you summon the last remnants of energy to embark on the additional journey to Pinnacle Peak, where an even greater reward awaits those who dare?
Pinnacle Lake, Monashee Mountains, British Columbia
Pinnacle Lake, Monashee Mountains, British Columbia
Pinnacle Lake, Monashee Mountains, British Columbia
How to Get to Pinnacle Lake
The South Fork Forest Service Road serves as a vital industrial route and operates under radio control. To guarantee a smooth and secure trip, all road users are advised to exercise extreme caution and strictly adhere to the posted resource road protocol.
To reach your destination, follow the directions below:
1. Travel Time: The estimated travel time is approximately two hours.
2. Depart from Vernon and head south on Highway 6. Continue on this route, passing the town of Lumby, for a total distance of approximately 66 km.
3. After covering the designated distance, keep an eye out for a left turn 1.5 km past the Goldpanner Café. This turn will redirect you onto the South Fork Forest Service Road.
4. Continue driving along the South Fork Forest Service Road, and soon you will encounter a signpost indicating the Pinnacles Hiking Area. Drive past this sign and continue your journey for another 22.5 km, following the signs along the way.
5. Eventually, you will reach your destination, a log landing area. Park your vehicle in this designated area and prepare to explore the surroundings.
6. It's worth noting that the approximate new access location to the South Fork Forest Service Road is at 50.178407 x -118.536380, just off Highway 6.
For further information regarding road safety, particularly in the Okanagan Shuswap Natural Resource District, it is recommended to obtain additional details on road safety protocols specific to the area.
Remember, while traversing the South Fork Forest Service Road, be cautious of the high level of industrial activity and other road users. Ensure you exercise extreme caution and follow the posted resource road protocol diligently.
Getting to the trailhead is an adventure in itself and will take you 2 hours from Vernon in the Okanagan Valley into the middle of nowhere. You will need a good reliable vehicle for this drive and there is no cell service, so keep that in mind when visiting this remote area.
Map of Pinnacle Lake
Pinnacle Lake, Monashee Mountains, British Columbia
Wildlife at Pinnacle Lake
The Monashees, with their breathtaking vistas and untouched landscapes, are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. You may find yourself amidst a vibrant array of creatures, each carving out their existence in this remote sanctuary. From graceful caribou to elusive mountain goats, from mischievous marmots to fleet-footed deers, the Monashees offer ample opportunities to witness these creatures thriving in their natural habitat.
However, amidst the allure of encountering these local critters, it is crucial to exercise caution, particularly due to the presence of grizzly bears – majestic yet formidable creatures inhabiting the region. Known for their strength and territorial nature, the grizzly bears call the Monashees their home. This fact, in combination with the area's remoteness, highlights the vital importance of being prepared for anything.
When journeying through the Monashees, it is advisable to acquaint oneself with the wildlife that roams these lands. Caribou, with their impressive antlers, can often be spotted traversing the rugged terrain. Deers gracefully move through the forests, while squirrels and hares scurry across the underbrush.
Venturing further into this haven of biodiversity, you might be fortunate enough to observe the nimble mountain goats perched atop rocky outcrops. Marmots, known for their endearing social interactions, may catch your attention with their amusing antics. Wolverines, though elusive and mysterious, may leave an indelible impression on those who are lucky enough to spot one.
Amidst this diverse array of wildlife, it is important to remember that certain species pose a potential threat. Black bears, wolves, cougars, and grizzly bears—the dominant predators of the Monashees—command respect and caution. While encounters with these majestic creatures are rare, it is crucial to stay vigilant and informed about appropriate safety measures to ensure a harmonious coexistence.
Pinnacle Lake, Monashee Mountains, British Columbia
Exploratory Glory YouTube Channel
Camping at Pinnacle Lake
At Pinnacle Lake, there is an informal Recreation Site that offers camping enthusiasts an opportunity to connect with the great outdoors. However, it is vital to note that this campsite lacks conventional amenities. Instead, cleared tent areas and rock fire pits are all that is available. Consequently, the responsibility of keeping the campsite clean falls entirely upon the shoulders of us, the campers.
To uphold the pristine beauty of Pinnacle Lake and its surroundings, it is crucial for all visitors to adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace. These principles serve as a guiding compass, ensuring that our collective impact on this natural marvel remains minimal and sustainable.
As you embark on your camping adventure at Pinnacle Lake, be ready to pack out everything you bring in. This means leaving no trace behind, including food waste, packaging, and any other items that might not decompose naturally.
Only use rock fire pits that have been thoughtfully constructed by previous campers, minimizing the risk of wildfires. Additionally, always be vigilant to prevent the spread of fire and, upon leaving, ensure the fire is entirely extinguished. By doing so, we safeguard the pristine nature of Pinnacle Lake.
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