Twin Lakes- Barkley Valley

Kristie August 7, 2011 Article

When I enter into sub alpine territory I am in complete awe of the beauty around me and just melt as though I have fallen in love. It might be the fresh air, the green valley’s, alpine flowers, towering peaks, marmot whistles, animal sightings, rushing creeks, blue skies or fantastic company, but one thing is for certain something is ignited inside of me and life seems simple, calm and peaceful. Our trip to Twin lakes on July 31st took us through Barkley valley in the Cayoosh range located northeast of Pemberton. which was amazing even though it rained for a couple hours and the sun only came out at the beginning and the end of the trip. Andrew and I left at 5:30 am with my friend’s dog Nevi as she was away on a guiding trip and couldn’t take her dog on the kayak. Nevi was super excited and she knew right away she was going on an adventure. Of course she probably hiked more then us as she would run ahead turn around and come back for most of the hike. Nevi loves water and I kept telling her there was a lake at the top, but unfortunately it was half covered with snow and ice and there was nowhere safe for her to swim. We also hiked further along Barkley Valley in the which was first inhabited by the first nations people who lived and recreated throughout this region. In winter this an avalanche corridor and the evidence hadn’t yet melted as we passed six slides of snow that had ripped in half some big trees. It looked like a war zone. Again it was great training but most importantly lots of fun! The trail is double tracked most of the way and would be a nice trail run to the top and back. Although ATV’s are welcome we didn’t see anyone during our 11 hours in the valley.