This is a 3-night camp/hike event based out of the BC Hydro Seton Lake campground (a free rec area campground with basic facilities which does not need reservations).   There are 45 sites equipped with picnic tables, drinking water and firepits (firewood available for a fee).  There are also several other campgrounds in the area which can be reserved if necessary.   THIS IS A NEW EXPLORATORY AREA TO BOTH HIKE LEADERS SO HAVE PATIENCE WITH THEM!!  There are many hikes in the close vicinity and we will choose which hikes to do each day.

Day 1:  Leave Kamloops to drive to Lillooet which is just over two hours.   We will set up camp then hike some of the lower level trails at the campground.

Day 2: West Fraser Historic Trail.   A 30 minute drive from town to a moderate scenic hike along the canyon to a bluff lookout.   Elevation gain 260 metres over 6.3 km along a dry and scenic footpath paralling the Fraser River far below with dramatic overlooks of the canyon.   The First Nations led Simon Fraser along this route using it as an alternative to the river below with its dangerous rapids.   Short sections of trail cut across loose terrain – hiking poles recommended.  There are old pioneer homesteads along the route.  Return by the same route.

Day 3: Fire Lookout Trail.   A 30 minute drive from town.  A moderately difficult trail climbing 750 metres over 9 km to two lookouts.  One hour of climbing brings you to the first lookout at 3 km and from this spot you have views of the surrounding mountains.   You can see the fire lookout hut above to the north.

The next section of the hike is more difficult with a faint trail along the saddle down and up again to the highest peak.   The little fire lookout sits atop the highest peak on this side of the Fraser and the view of snowcapped peaks in all directions is worth the climb.  Return by the same route.

Day 4:  Pack up camp; leave spare vehicles in day use area.  Drive 45 minutes to hike the Downton Alpine Trail or Downton Alpine Lake Trail.   Both hikes begin at the same parking area off the Duffy Lake Road south of town and depending on energy and time constraints we will decide on the day which hike to do.   The alpine lake trail is about one hour each way with an elevation gain of 300 metres over 2.5 km.   The Downton alpine trail is 2 hrs up and 1 1/2 down with an elevation of 500 metres over 4.5 km.   Both trails travel through subalpine forest and alpine meadows.  ** This hike entails 3 or 4 creek crossings so bring water shoes and hiking poles for stability.   We will not be choosing this hike if there is a high flow advisory but the only time this hike is not recommended is at spring runoff and we are way away from that.  Return the same way on both hikes.

Return to pick up spare vehicles and drive home.

** There are many options in the area should any of the access roads or trails be closed at the time.