The Deer Point Trail is an incredibly scenic hike that traces the high bluffs above Christina Lake. The trail is smoothly graded and winds through ponderosa forest, opening up to big views of the lakeshore below.
Distance, round trip: 13.8km
Elevation: +336m
Season:Â early April to early November
Difficulty:Â
 Easy
Trailhead
Park at Texas Creek Provincial Park and starting hiking from the campground.
The trail starts with a steady uphill climb the reach the bluffs above the lake. However, the path is wide and smooth and the grade is nicely managed. With large piled rocks supporting the trail, the hike appears to follow the remnants of an old road.
Along the trail
As the trail climbs above the campground, the view of Christina Lake opens up to the left. We encountered quite a bit of deadfall from the recent windstorm as well as some very marshy patches in the lower sections.
At about 2.5km the trail dips down into a small valley to cross a stream. The bridge was washed out, but we were able to step carefully across on the broken boards.
Just past this stream, we reached a scenic lookout – a great spot for a break:
Around the bluffs
As the trail continues, it begins wrapping around some serious rock bluffs! The views of the lake continue and the forest is open and full of light. Very pleasant hiking!
Mid-April had plenty of glacier lillies sprouting up along the north-facing slopes and valleys.
The climatic mid-point
Just past the turn-off for Trapper Creek Campground, at 6.3km, we turned on the junction for the climatic viewpoint. We followed at fainter trail higher up above the bluffs. It’s a short climb with 50m of elevation, and it is well worth the effort!
At the top of the bluff is a huge view of Christina Lake, looking all the way down to the distant south shore.
We sat on the remnants of a scenic bench, admired the view, ate lunch, and steadily removed ticks.
It was a beautiful, sunny day with budding spring leaves all around. The trees were still open enough that the lake could be continuously spotted along the hike home.
Beautiful photos! About how long did this hike take you?
5-6 hours depending on lunch break!
Thanks!
Great hike! Definitely worth going up to the viewpoint after Trapper Creek. Don’t stop at the first viewpoint. The trail continues even though it is somewhat overgrown. It is well worth pushing through to the top where you can see the entire length of the lake. Allow 5 to 6 hours for out and back.
Are there bear poles for your food at the campsites?
We checked the BC Parks website, but it isn’t clear. You can ask on the West Kootenay Outdoors FB page, or perhaps bring equipment for a bear hang or canister just to be safe!