Peterson East Rim Loop
We can hike a loop route through Peterson Creek Park to the east side of eeh gorge and back by following existing trails. From the trailhead at the corner of Summit and Whiteshield Crescent South, we hiked east to the edge of the canyon then followed the Tom Moore Trail to the Billy Miner Trail junction where we descended to the creek.
In December, the creek was still flowing, but there were also frozen icicles.
The trail on the east side climbs to a rim trail and leaves the park for a section. All of the lands to the east are private property, even though they are well used by mountain bikers, runners, dog walkers, and hikers. A sign on the border fence specifically states no access to vehicles, adding the comment that it includes mountain bikes. At one point there is a stile, suitable for walkers, runners, and hikers, but all of us must still use good judgement not to intrude into grazing areas in grazing season. We ventured on foot onto some of the trails, on the snow, well below the crest of the hill, mindful of responsible recreation.
On our way back, we dropped all the way to the bottom of the gorge and back up, coming along the Grasslands Trail to enjoy the fine views up the North Thompson River Valley.
When I arrived in Kamloops in 1976, Peterson Creek was the first place I hiked and I have continued to enjoy the trails in the ensuing 42 years and hope to for as long as I can.