Located between Merritt and Kamloops in the heart of the Highland Valley, Logan Lake offers hundreds of miles of easy to moderate trail riding among rolling hills, grasslands and lakes in every direction. While local riders estimate that there are around eight distinct trail riding areas, due to the sheer expanse of the scenic forest terrain on offer the trails here are not marked. Prepare for an explorative ride or contact the accommodating local Logan Lake Snoriders Club for more information or to request a guide.
The Rabbit Run
The Rabbit Run is a flat riding area with miles of scenic tree riding and open meadows. Without any significant hills or cliffs, this popular area is well-suited to beginner riders, families or tree-riding enthusiasts. Take your machine around Tunkwa Lake for 45 to 50 miles of tree-lined trail.
Elevation: 5000 feet
Driving directions: Drive north toward Tunkwa Lake for 4 km and turn left into the parking lot.
Distance from community: 4 km
Grooming season: n/a
Difficulty rating: Easy
Forge Mountain
For a rewarding ride that is slightly more challenging than taking the Rabbit Run around Tunkwa Lake full-circle, turn up Forge Mountain at the Run’s halfway point. There is typically five to six feet of fresh powder on top of the mountain, as well as an open-pit mine to explore and excellent views of the Highland Valley. A ribbon is sometimes placed at the point where riders should turn up the mountain; however, it is advisable to ask at a local service station for up-to-date directions when you arrive.
Elevation: 5000 feet
Driving directions: Drive north toward Tunkwa Lake for 4 km and turn left into the parking lot.
Distance from community: 4 km
Grooming season: n/a
Difficulty rating: Moderate
Greenstone Mountain
The highest point in and around Logan Lake, Greenstone Mountain is another popular area for intermediate riders. Due to its popularity the well-used yet un-groomed run may be a bit tougher riding; however, its open meadows and tree riding are still relatively tame. Choose one of about a dozen ways to reach the top and enjoy the views of Kamloops and the Coast Mountain Range.
Elevation: 6500 feet
Driving directions: Drive 3 km towards Kamloops on Chartrand Creek Road. There is a small parking lot on the left side of the road for riders to unload.
Distance from community: 3 km
Grooming season: n/a
Difficulty rating: Moderate
Local buzz
Logan Lake Snoriders Club Vice President Art Kreke has lived in Logan Lake for 40 years and has been snowmobiling just as long. He will tell you that the biggest draw in the area is the ample trail riding opportunities.
“Not a fan of mountain climbing,” Kreke said that the relatively low elevation of the Logan Lake plateau lends itself to trail riding that is perfect for beginner riders, families or anyone who considers themselves a true trailblazer.
“I enjoy trail riding; it’s slow, you can enjoy the scenery, enjoy the wildlife,” said Kreke. “I know most of the areas, and you can see lots of trees, deer, moose, rabbits and squirrels.”
And while Kreke said that Logan Lake is not known for extreme, steep runs, he still advises first-time visitors to the area to ride with someone who has experience due to the sheer vastness of the scenic Highland Valley forest terrain.
“Find someone to go with you. There are a million trails out there,” he said.
Local events
January/February
The Logan Lake Snoriders Club hosts Winterfest around the end of January or beginning of February every year, depending on snow conditions. The event is a fundraiser for the Logan Lake Lions Club and this year will go towards supporting local children living with handicaps. Participants in the event raise pledges and participate in a planned ride. Following the ride there is a meal, usually held at the Black Bowl pub. According to the club, the all-age event usually attracts 40 to 50 riders. For more information contact club vice president Art Kreke at 250-523-9995.
Wednesdays and Sundays
Every Wednesday and Sunday morning beginning in December the Logan Lake Snoriders Club takes an open ride. To join the ride, which often includes stops along the way to build a fire and cook food, meet at the Logan Lake Recreation Centre at 10 a.m. For more information contact club vice president Art Kreke at 250-523-9995.
