monashee

These scenic trails follow Bessette and Duteau creeks, the easternmost spawning grounds of Pacific coho and chinook salmon. There are three trails connected via downtown streets. Each trail has information, art and activities on a different theme. The different environments you find along the trails ranging from the Cottonwood riparian habitat to the industrial land that is indicative of Lumby's association with forest products provide interest for all tastes. The trails are a first step towards developing a harmonious coexistence between industry and our natural environment.

The numerous murals along Lumby's downtown streets further exemplify this community in transition.

Itineraries as short as 1 km and as long as 8 km are offered on terrain that is flat and accessible to wheelchairs, prams and bicycles. To get the most out of your visit, start at the kiosk where you can obtain a trails passport and a children's activity guide. Please stay on the pathways and bring your sunglasses and a hat to make it easier to see into the creeks and trees. Your leashed pet is welcome and doggie bags are provided.

The coho and chinook salmon that are born and grow in these creeks travel more than 1,000 km from the Pacific Ocean to come back to spawn! They may not always be visible but the salmon are present throughout the year, either as eggs in the gravel, juveniles behind logs, or as spawners. In addition to the creek life, you may see eagles and hawks soaring on high or spiders and snails creeping along!

Although spawning occurs only in late summer and fall, the interpretive signs, activities and scenery make the trails interesting and fun for everyone at any time of the year. Touch and play activities will interest young children while puzzles and discovery points will captivate the attention of older children and adults. Benches provide frequent resting spots while picnic tables make the trails a perfect spot for a snack.

The trails are an ideal location to hold events such as benefit races, bird counts, community walks, and group and school outings. Children's guides and other informational brochures will be provided upon request. For help in planning your event or to take part in one of the several year round events occurring on the trails contact us at salmontrails@hotmail.com, or phone 250-547-2171, and visit www.lumby.ca/salmontrails.

The building of these trails has been a community effort. The Village Of Lumby built them with funding from the Government of Canada, Weyerhaeuser, and in collaboration with the Okanagan Indian Band, local industry and landowners. The wonderful, ongoing contributions of school students and teachers, clubs and individuals make the trails unique and ensure that there will always be more to see!