Hope-Princeton Colours

 

The Vine Maples along the road, and along the tree line, are only on the south facing slopes on the Hope-Princeton highway. There is perpetual deep shade on the north face of the mountains due to their steepness and only large coniferous trees grow there. The Engineer's road is just a short hike up from the west gate of Manning Park, with the parking lot beside the giant Marmot which you cannot miss. The hike up is not steep and is worth the slight effort. The road is part of the Dewdney Trail which brought gold miners to the area.

 

 

 

Standing on the 160 year old, man made road, and looking straight up, this is what you see.

 

A few more miles down the road is a 'must see' spot called Sumallo Grove. The short turnoff from the highway to the grove of giant trees is full of pot holes, so take it easy. Again, it is worth seeing. There is a small nature trail around the giant cedar, spruce, and fir trees, with interpretive signs. The view of a bend in the Sumallo River is spectacular at any time of year and the picnic table may be back next summer because the chain is still anchored to the trail. A short walk and you come to the foot bridge (pictured above) which crosses the river. It is sturdy and is 175 ft. long. Beyond this bridge is some very nice hiking, but take water and food. (and bear spray)

 

My dependable little truck parked in the deep shade of Sumallo Grove, dwarfed by the trees.

 

On to Princeton and a view from the edge of the road right across the highway from the pub as you start the descent into town. We found the trail head that leads to that trestle bridge and river and walked down the trail you see crossing the slope above the river.

 

It was hot and dry for October and the south facing slope gave evidence of it. I was looking for shade. More coming.