King Creek TrailSystem (Edited 27 September 2006)
Description and Trail Access
The King Creek Trail system traverses ProvincialCrownLand located in Otter Point between Kemp Lake Road and Otter Point Road. There are access points on both Kemp Lake Road and Otter Point Road. The KempLakeaccess is on Kemp Lake Road just up from Milligan Road on the left. This trail winds through a pleasant forest behind Sells’ farm and joins theforest road which begins on Otter Point Road opposite Farmer Road. The trail leads westward along a tributary of King Creek until it reaches the back of the Otter Point Farm (Forest Green Llamas and Alpacas) at feature # 2. Also visible from this vantage point is the King Creek Ranch. Together these farms provide a restful pastoral vista dotted with curious llamas and alpacas. The trail loops down across a wetland and returns uphill (eastward) towards the same route (waypoint # 5). Look for the remains of a wooden fence at the turn off. If you continue on without making this left hand turn you will enter private property on King Creek.
There is a small side trail to the right at the waypoint so marked. The trail winds through the forest down the ravine tothe King Creek Tributary. Across the stream it then climbs through private land toOtter Point Road at Eaglecrest Drive. This private trail is gated at the road to keep in horses and other livestock. You will need permission to use this segment of the trail. If you do get permission, please be respectful; close the gate, control you dogs.
These trails are ideal for equestrians as the sight lines and steady footing allow horses to gallop safely. The trail system could be developed as part of a larger network allowing continuous access from the Broom Hill trails through Otter Point and northwest towards the power lines andJordan River. Routes and right of ways to complete this system would need to be negotiated. The site of the old OtterPointSchoolis being considered for a heritage park. A park in this location would be an excellent trail head for the King Creek Trailsystem and an access point for the larger network. A trail head parking lot to accommodate horse trailers, a small corral, picnic tables and toilet facilities would enhance the King Creek Trail system as a community and tourism recreational asset.
Terrain and difficulty:
The King CreekTrail has easy footing consisting primarily of compacted forest soil on an old road bed. Most of the trail is a difficulty level 1 trail. The KempLake access behind Sells’ farm is a difficulty level 2 until the trail meets with the forest road coming from Otter Point Road. The King Creek tributary side trail is difficulty
level 2 owing to the steep slope of the ravine.. There are some road wash-out areas along the southern loop. Caution is advised in this area. This trail has been used traditionally by the equestrian community that has grown up along KempLake and Otter Point Roads.
Features and Vegetation
The trail meanders through second or third growth forest in the northeast part of the trail. There are some large “sentinel” trees of both Douglasfir and western red cedar which have survived early logging operations. Replanted fir and cedar forest are now well established and provide a pleasant forested trail. In the southern portion of the trail, there is mixedforest dominated by alder. Views of the creek, the llama farm and wetland features and the ever changing garbage pile add interest to this trail.
Shown in the picture is the pastoral setting of the Otter Point Farm and the King Creek Ranch. Though far away, the llamas are aware of your presence.
Maps
Trails Description: JDF Community Trails Society.
Caveats:
[1] While we try to verify the information presented by actual hiking and observation, wedo not guaranty the accuracy of our information. By using this information you agree to save harmless the JdF Community Trails Society and use this information at your own risk.
[2} The JdF Community Trails Society does not necessarily verify access restrictions, if any, to any trails described. Efforts are made to follow traditional and established trail routes butsome of these trails may involve trespass on private property or other restrictions. Routing information provided by the Society does not imply permission.
Key to Difficulty Levels
Please note that for any outdoor activity, you should have proper footwear and clothing. Take a snack and water for a longer walk. Carry a whistle Make sure someone knows where you are, and when you expect to be back. You can leave a note in your car.
Difficulty level 1: A walking trail, suitable for the general public including wheel chair and disabled accessible. Difficulty level 1 trails are suitable for horses, hikers and bikers.
Difficulty level 2: A hiking trail, suitable for the general public with a reasonable degree of fitness. Not suitable for disabled persons. Suitable for hikers, horses, or bicycles. Footing is secure, grades are manageable for the general public and stairs and boardwalks that are in good repair are used in the more challenging sections, if any.
Difficulty level 3:A hiking trail for those in good repair. These trails are suitable for the general public with an above average level of fitness. Level 3 trails may be suitable for horses if so indicated. There may be steep grades, steps. The footing may be treacherous in wet conditions.
Difficulty level 4:A trail you need to plan for. These trails are suitable only for the fit hiker and may involve steep climbs or difficult terrain. They are not suitable for horses. Extreme mountain biking may be possible. Rope climbs to assist in steep or slippery slopes may be involved.
Difficulty level 5: A challenge and adventure. These are trails suitable only for the most fit and well-equipped hiker. These trails typically involve steep climbs and difficult terrain.
Trails Description: JDF Community Trails Society.
Caveats:
[1] While we try to verify the information presented by actual hiking and observation, we do not guaranty the accuracy of our information. By using this information you agree to save harmless the JdF Community Trails Society and use this information at your own risk.
[2} The JdF Community Trails Society does not necessarily verify access restrictions, if any, to any trails described. Efforts are made to follow traditional and established trail routes but some of these trails may involve trespass on private property or other restrictions. Routing information provided by the Society does not imply permission.