There are many short, interesting hikes in the Kamloops area.   On days where conditions or personal reserves don’t permit a longer hike, we sometimes choose one of the shorter ones we have done in past explorations.   From the Uplands Drive Trailhead (the junction of McLeod Drive and Uplands in Barnhartvale), we hiked west along the double track, then turned uphill onto a steep single track.    There are several trail options for hikers or mountain bikers.   Since we knew the area well, we chose our own route.

From various viewpoints on the hillsides and hilltops there are great views down the South Thompson River Valley.

Wind-shaped trees cling to the edges of open hillsides.

This hike was an eclectic one, going off trail for views or exploring new routes.

We hiked over to a hill on the east side that offered some views up the river valley with Harper Mountain in the distance.

This exploratory hike was about 4 km.   In the past we called three of the hills, Altius, Fortius, and Citius from the Latin motto used in the Olympics, since each hills is higher and more challenging.

More Information – Wildflowers in the Altius Hills