Bonanza Corridor
Bonanza Rd to Summit Lake Hwy crossing
This section begins at Bonanza Road in Hills and heads north past private properties and a government gravel pit. Veering left just past the gravel pit, it drops down to a wooden bridge over Arthur Creek and left along a short bypass before rejoining the rail trail. Passing several more private properties, the trail rejoins Bonanza Creek at the north end of Hills. From here, the scenery opens to mountain views, and the trail follows the creek alongside wetlands, riparian shrub patches, and extensive beaver activity. Midway to Summit Lake, a 2km bypass on the east side of the trail rises above an active and ever-changing beaver flood zone. A low-lying ridge separates this section from Hwy 6, drowning out all traffic noise until the trail approaches the Hwy 6 crossing just south of Summit Lake Marsh.
Access Point
Hills - Bonanza Rd/rail trail junction. Park on side of road at rail trail junction.
Hills - Reiben Rd - Hwy 6 to left on Reiben Rd. Go to bottom of road then right to parking area.
South end of Summit Lake – parking areas at Bonanza Creek crossing of Hwy 6 close to rail trail.
Conditions
July 2024 - This section is the main focus for trail improvements this year. Crews will be brushing and clearing, improving drainage, trailbed conditions, signage and sightlines this summer. This is the most remote and wild section of the rail trail. Hikers and bikers should be bear aware; take all precautions and be prepared for encounters throughout the summer.
A significant piece of this section, midway between Summit Lake and Hills, remains under water from beaver activity. Approaching from either direction, leave the rail trail and veer east onto the flagged beaver pond bypass trail, 1600m long, passing through beautiful forest 3-15m upslope from the rail trail, with a blue rating in difficulty. Travel with care. Cyclists may want to walk their bikes in places.
April 15 - June 15, 2024 - The seasonal wildlife Rail Trail closure is now in effect for this section of the Trail from Hunter's Siding to the highway crossing at Summit Lake. "Closure Ahead" signs are posted at both ends and at Bonanza Road.
Mid June 2023 - Generally good conditions for hiking and cycling with some wet spots and brushy single track. Less experienced cyclists may choose to walk their bikes though sections of the bypasses. Be alert for bears and make your presence known.
Late May 2023 – Trail is open and in good condition from Bonanza Road to Hunter Siding. Grizzly Bear Trail Closure is now in effect. The Rail Trail is closed from Hunter Siding (north of Hills) to Hwy 6 crossing at Summit Lake until June 15,2023. Please see Seasonal and Temporary Closures for more info.
Early May 2023 – Possible short flooded sections. Generally good condition for hiking and cycling. Less experienced cyclists may choose to walk their bikes though sections of the bypasses.
