The Mount Reesor area offers great alpine hiking close to Tumbler Ridge. Access is via a gravel road up the valley of Perry Creek, and it is relatively easy to get to the alpine. Once in the open, there are many choices for a full day adventure. The hike is rated challenging due to its elevation gain and route-finding above treeline.
The hike starts at the northwest edge of the clearing. Follow the pipeline right of way west for several hundred metres, and look on the left for a sign and flagging to indicate the start of the route. The flagged trail leads up the ridge to treeline. Once the top of the ridge is reached, views to the south and west are superb. The ridge top is a barren stretch of brown shale known as the Caribou Highway, where sometimes tracks and sign of the animals can be seen. The “highway” leads to the south towards Mount Reesor looming in the distance. On a good weather day this is excellent hiking, but it is prone to windy and foggy conditions. At the end of the highway, descend to the saddle before starting the final climb to the peak. Vegetation in the alpine areas consists of stunted alpine fir, arctic willow and scrub birch in sheltered hollows, as well as a variety of wildflowers that bloom in July and August. The reason why the Caribou Highway is so barren is that the shale bedrock contains a lot of pyrite (iron sulphide) which makes the soil acidic and inhibits plant growth. The route climbs up the northeastern flank of the peak, becoming a bit of a scramble over loose rock near the top. The peak of Mt Reesor is the center of a syncline or trough in the rock strata. Once on top, there are expansive views of the high peaks of the Rockies, including the glaciated summit of Sentinel Peak to the west. To the south lie the mountains of the Monkman Park area. Keep an eye out for Golden Eagles, as these ridges are thought to be on the migration route of the large raptors. On the return you can extend the ridgewalking by staying on the ridge to the east, heading for the next two summits. This is more wide open alpine rambling, with views of exposed steeply dipping bedding planes and slabs. At the far end of this area is a large plateau, formed by a gentle syncline, with exposed slabs of coarse-grained sandstone and conglomerate on each side, and more fine views. Keep in mind that the best way down is to follow the Caribou Highway back instead of shortcutting to the road.
From Tumbler Ridge, drive north towards Chetwynd on Hwy 29 for 8.8 km to the turnoff for the Wolverine Forest Service Road. This is a radio controlled road and there is industrial traffic from the Wolverine Mine as well as possible logging trucks. A radio is strongly recommended. Zero your odometer. Turn right onto the Perry Creek Rd at km 12.2. Follow the Perry Creek Rd as it heads up the valley past the mine. There are junctions at the 10.2 km and 12 km marks – take the right fork at the first one and the left fork at the second one. The final junction is at 13.7 km. Take the left fork at this one, crossing a bridge, and follow the road about 3 km to its end at a large clearing (the right fork leads to a gas well and the start of the Mount Spieker hiking routes).
This route is in bear country; travel in groups and make noise Please pack out what you packed in Alpine weather can change suddenly – carry appropriate clothing and a map and compass or GPS
For more information, please contact the Tumbler Ridge Visitor Information Centre at 250-242-3123
No nearby trails listed.