A hike above the Tranquille River Canyon.   Watching Creek joins the river from the north.   This was once a gold-panning area and some old remnants of the gold rush can still be found.

Driving Directions/Trailhead:

  • From Kamloops, follow Tranquille Road past the airport, the golf course, Tranquille, and climb on the gravel Tranquille – Criss Creek Road.
  • Continue through the canyon for about 15 km (from the bridge across the river) to the next bridge (Tranquille Crossing).
  • Park at the left in a clearing next to the river.
  • The unsigned trailhead is on the east side of the road (a double track a little way up the hill or a single track closer to the bridge).
  • Another area to explore the Watching Creek area is found 3.5 km farther back,   A dirt road descends to a bench area and some short trails go along the west bench of Tranquille Canyon.

Trail:

  • The main trail is a double track that goes for 3 km to a point between Tranquille River and Watching Creek.
  • There was once a bridge across Watching Creek, but now we have to go down a single track to the river and then cross on rocks or logs.    The crossing is more difficult in spring.
  • A trail picks up on the other side and continues downstream on top of the cliffs.   There are colorful cliffs on both sides, hoodoos, and some scenic views.
  • The trail continues down to the river where there was once a footbridge connecting trails on both sides of the canyon.
  • Short trails also go up both sides of Watching Creek.
  • Watching Creek is an out-and-back route.

 

Watching Creek Images:

 

More Information: