Eaton Lake: to the second Falls Lookout

Eaton Lake to the 2nd Falls Lookout

4.5-8.5 Km's

915 meters elevation

Toilet paper free pit toilet

Trail Key: D~2~ST~R~RT~LC~V~DF~KF

2015~Follow a wide, rocky dirt path with a rushing creek on your right. Soon the trail becomes skinny as it snakes it's way up to a wide log bridge with grating & small railing in the middle to give you some comfort. On your left is Eaton Creek with a powerful waterfall cascading down. This is about .5 Km's. Due to the trails steepness the Km's seem longer.

As you walk along the trail weaves it's way switch backing and snaking it's way in a beautiful forest. It's steep at times. And the grade levels out at times but don't get too comfortable as it soon climbs again. After awhile it dips down to a sketchy bridge crossing with a bench. The bridge is not far off the ground but needs to be replaced. This is the 1/2 way mark (about 2 km).

At times along the trail there is minimal blowdown and the odd log to get over. Soon you come to the second Falls Lookout. It's a skinnier trail and a slight drop off on your left side that would take you down to the river. You can get a little closer to see the falls but it's rooty & slippery. Once you're happy you can make this the end of your hike or carry on to Eaton Lake. If you decide this is the end then a trip back to the first log bridge crossing is a great area for lunch and to snap lots of photos.

If you decide to carry on, keep in mind the trail steepens through the forest. As you near the top you may encounter snow, two sketchy log crossings and a bound field to get through before Eaton Lake greets you. You might think it's a short hike but when trails become steeper, it takes longer to get to your goal.

You could loose some of your nine lives on this steep trail. I would suggest to go on a dry day and to bring MICROspikes. Happy & safe trails.

Directions:

From Highway #1 (Trans-Canada Highway) near Hope, take exit #168. Follow Flood Hope Road east to a flashing amber light and turn right on to Silver Skagit Road. Follow the gravel road complete with many potholes. After the road's 16 km marker, turn left on to a side road marked with a sign for the Eaton Lake Trail and Eaton Creek forestry campsite. Follow the road up a short hill to the campsite area, where there is parking for approximately four cars. There's not a lot of room up there.

Today's hiking group

First log crossing

Blow down along the trail

This is considered the second crossing. It's fine but does need to be replaced.

Beautiful green mossy forest

Falls Lookout cascading down

Steep almost the entire way

Sketchy log crossing...closer to the top.

Boulder crossing...closer to the too.

You never know who's watching you

A tall dude wearing a fashion favorite with an orange tattoo.