This trail is 13 km long and runs from the McQueen Lake area to Deep Lake.   We recommend traveling west to east since there is a net drop in elevation.   A two-car system or someone to drop you off makes this a point-to-point trail.

The trailhead is actually at the east side of the McQueen Lake property (at N 50° 49.377 W 120° 25.620).   It is not always easy to find.    To get to this point, you can start at one of two trails, but the center would to take the route from the north:

• North entrance – go past McQueen Lake and you will see Griffin Lake through the trees; just past Griffin Lake you will see a trailhead sign (at N 50° 49.883 W 120° 25.340) on your right.   This route is a little longer and you may be a bit confused by trail junctions and fences.   You are heading for the open fields near Smiling Pond with the gate area behind the aspens.

The trail crosses an open meadow next to a seasonal pond, then enters mixed forest on the back side of the large (unnamed) hill.   It emerges into open forest on the spine of that hill, then veers north steeply down to McQueen Creek.   Over the next section the trail follows the creek, crossing it 3 times on bridges.   It emerges from the forest in an open area which looks like a camping spot which has a history of backcountry motorcycles and other motorized uses.   Rounding the ridge, the trail comes out into the open grasslands and veers north to cross the north end of wet areas, and crosses the Noble Creek Road.    This section can be confusing, but you will be aiming for the ridge immediately east and you must climb to get over the top before descending past ponds, meadows, ridges, and then a gradual descent towards Deep Lake.   At the south end of Deep Lake, turn right to go to the end of the trail at the end of Ida Lane.

The route covers several biozones and a lot of open terrain.   Spring is the best time, although we had to hike over ice in mid-March.   Wildflowers will be blooming, ponds will be full of water, the creek will be running, waterfowl will be seen in wet areas, and the temperatures should be reasonable right.   If you hike this in the summer, much of the hike is in the open so prepare for the sun and heat.   You may also encounter cattle along the route.

A much-to-recommend trail…