On a day of less smoke from the forest fires, I hiked the hills around Deep Lake.    From the parking area on Ida Lane, I started on the Extended Loop Route which goes north then west, working my way across the hills toward Deep Lake.  

There is a trail which goes up over the hills branching off the main trail, but on this day, I chose to go straight up the west side (no trail) of the higher hill to the top, and beyond. 

The trail continues over a series of hills with lots of up and down.      There are fine views in each direction at various points along the hilltops and at the edge of bluffs.    Click an image for a lightbox view and a caption/comment.  

on the Deep Lake Extended Loop Trail

snags on the south-facing slopes

the view to the west from the top of the hill

Deep Lake from above

the view down to the North Thompson River and Rayleigh

the view to the north on a smoky day

an 8 km route

From the northern end of the hills I wound down a steep slope (no trail) to find the Deep Lake Loop Trail which I followed back to the main trail.   A few of the moments of the 8 km hike are found in this YouTube video.  

Most of these trails are signed and easy to follow, but if you choose to go over the hills, some route-finding is required.    The hills offer great views, though, and it is worth the extra effort.

More information –Deep Lake Trail