Trail Name: Upper Canyon Loop
Distance: 4.1 kms
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Medium
Cell Service: Yes
Dog friendly: Yes, on-leash
Trail: Single track switch backs and double track service road
Highlight: A second hike to do while visiting Margaret Falls with great lake views (and a hidden waterfall)
To get there: This trail is about a one hour drive from Kamloops. To get there, take Highway 1 heading East towards the Shuswap. Continue on the highway for about 91kms. Turn left onto Sunnybrae/Canoe Point Road, following the signs to Harold Provincial Park. Continue down this road for another 12kms. As you approach you should see signs for Herald Provincial Park. Continue just past the park itself and the parking area for Margaret Falls to the day-use area of Herald Provincial Park on your right. Park here. Or get directions from Google here.
As you drive into the day-use parking area, you should see a couple of steps and a trail map on the right hand side of the road, this is the start of the trail. Follow the trail up to the main road, crossing when safe, and continuing towards the next set of steps. Continue up the switchbacks, being sure to take the signed side-trail off on the left to the viewpoint. Back on the trail, you’ll climb a prominent dry ridge and then descend into the canyon. At a 3-way intersection, you can take the trail on the left for a short, steep, and slippery trek down to a small waterfall and pool. (This section considered Hard.) Return to the 3-way intersection and continue along the trail. You will cross over the creek and continue down a road access. Follow this back to the main road and then back to the day-use area.
Offering a quieter trail, great views, and a private waterfall (if you choose), this trail is a great addition to a trip to Margaret Falls. The trail itself is fairly easy and free of roots, however the side trail to the waterfall is quite risky and we would not recommend for children or those unsteady on their feet.
