Monashee

It contains 7,513 hectares of undeveloped mountain wilderness. Follow Highway 6 east from Vernon for 60 kilometres (37 mi), through Lumby to Cherryville, turn north on Sugar Lake Road and proceed for 48 kilometres (29 mi) until you reach the turn-off to Monashee Provincial Park. Travel 11 kilometres (7 mi) to the parking lot; from here a trail crosses Spectrum Creek and heads into Spectrum Lake campground.

This park protects substantial stands of old-growth cedar, spruce and hemlock. Lush green forests grace the valley bottoms; in spring the alpine meadows higher up blossom with lupine and daisy, fireweed and lily, monkey flower and columbine. The park is also noted for some of the oldest rock formations in Western Canada as well as its clear, glacier-fed lakes – more than 100 in all – many teeming with rainbow trout.

Wildlife often seen include deer, marmot, squirrel, hare and black bear. The more elusive mountain goat and pika, and caribou and grizzly bear live at higher elevations.

Hiking

Experienced hikers will appreciate the park’s virgin wilderness and the spectacular views that reward a challenging climb.

The highest peak is Mt. Fosthall at 2,679 metres (8,840 ft). There are also plenty of opportunities for beginners. The park has over 30 kilometres (18 mi) of well maintained trails, 10 wilderness campsites with picnic tables and pit toilets and 6 overnight shelters.

Camping

Backcountry camping is available at four locations:  Spectrum lake, Little Peters Lake, Big Peters Lake and Margie Lake. The backcountry camping fee is in effect at these locations. The Spectrum Lake group campsite is found about 100 metres from the main campground, on the northeast side of the lake. And wilderness camping is permitted in other areas of the park without a backcountry permit.