This week's hike is a relatively unknown trail that has a variety of things to see especially for "rockhounds". The opal bed trails provide easy access for those hoping to mine a few opals and agates, but do not get too excited about finding an opal as they are relatively worthless. It also has some great views and a mix of trails for people of all hiking levels. The opal beds were originally staked by John Shelford in the early 80s and later turned into a "reserve staking" area for the public to try their luck at rockhounding. The mountain pine beetle has had an impact on the area and killed most of the trees in the trail system.
Directions
From the junction of Domano Blvd and Highway 16 in Prince George, drive 219 km west to the town of Burns Lake. Turn left on Highway 35 (immediately past shopping centre) and drive 1.9 km to Eagle Creek Road. Turn right and drive up the hill for 400 m. Turn right on to a dirt road and follow this for 3.0 km. Turn left on to Guyishton Road. After 400 m the bottom end of the Eagle Trail starts on the right followed by an old stream fed fountain 50 m further down the road on the right. At 1.3 km along the road stay right at the junction. Continue on a further 2.1 km to the main parking lot and trailheads.
Trail Description
The Opal Bed trail heads off at the end of the roundabout circle and quickly comes to the junction to the agate trail after 400 m (The agate trail heads off to the left where it climbs steeply for 700 m where the trail ends). Continuing on the Opal Bed trail trail, it climbs gradually through the pine forest for 1.8 km where another junction is reached on a ridge. To the right it is 200 m to a viewpoint of some hoodoos and rock bluffs. Mountain goats can be seen on the rock bluffs across the valley. The opal beds start 150 m to the left of the junction. The opals can be seen embedded in the large rock pieces on the ground. The opals can be released by breaking the rocks into pieces. The opal beds continue on for 100 m along the ridge. Watch for the original claim stake that John Shelford staked out in 1984. It is located on a post in the opal beds. The opal beds are not the only attraction. A lookout trail leads to a viewpoint with great views of the town of Burns Lake. There is also a beaver pond trail, agate trail and the eagle trail
For more information on this hike including airphotos, maps, GPS coordinates and trail photos refer the newly released 2nd edition of Hiking North Central B.C. which is available at local bookstores.
