Climb up to explore multiple alpine routes
The Mount Spieker area offers excellent wide open alpine hiking close to Tumbler Ridge. Access is via a gravel road to a gas well, with old coal exploration trails taking the hiker to the alpine. Once in the open, there are many choices for a half day or full day adventure. The hikes are rated moderate.
The hike starts by ascending along an old exploration road to the saddle that is north of the well. This road switchbacks up, climbing steadily until it reaches the saddle, with good views in all directions.
From the saddle, there are three choices for alpine hiking: southwest, east, and north.
To the southwest lies a short hike up the ridge adjacent to the saddle, along an animal path tailor made for hikers. The last stunted trees are left behind, and low thickets of scrub birch give way to true alpine vegetation such as mountain avens, moss campion, and grasses. The summit of the ridge is a good place to view the former Bullmoose Mine, which is returning to wildlife habitat as reclamation takes hold. The high peak to the south is Mount Reesor (2043 m), another good choice for a day hike.
The actual summit of Mt Spieker (1971 m) lies to the east, along a gentle 4 km long alpine ridge. The skyline of this ridge can be seen from Tumbler Ridge. Wildflowers bloom in profusion in July and August here, and many marmots make their homes among the rocks. The area is known for birds such as ptarmigan and golden eagle, and caribou are often spotted in the alpine.
Perhaps the most interesting scenery can be found on the northern leg. Views in all directions, small tarns, and an assortment of rock scenery keep hikers entertained as they walk to the end of the ridge. A most unusual feature called the Playpen is found midway along the route, where crack patterns in the rock form intersecting walls, making a low corral for young children.
The ridge is bounded by cliffs on its east and west sides. The thickly bedded sandstone and conglomerate of these cliffs is broken by deep cracks and fissures, in which snow can be found even in late summer. The ridge narrows to the north, until it squeezes down to a narrow strip dubbed the Neck. This has an impressive pattern of intersecting cracks. Below the cliffs on the east side are two small lakes.
You can continue hiking to the north to a fine viewpoint overlooking the valley of Bullmoose Creek. Across the valley to the north, the bulk of Bullmoose Mountain (2040 m) can be seen. Those with binoculars may spot mountain goats on the south slopes of the peak.
From the gas well climb the old exploration road to the saddle. From the saddle, there are three choices for alpine hiking: southwest, east, and north. These routes are open alpine areas with some animal paths. Be cautious of weather moving into the alpine areas as the return route can be obscured.
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, and possibly logging trucks. A radio is strongly recommended. Turn right onto the Perry Creek road at km 12.2.
Follow the Perry Creek road 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 right fork here, and follow the road to its end at a large clearing with a gas well.
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.