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Driving the Winfield Creek Road
by Debi Smith (Osborne)
Easy access to our alpine areas is limited. The last time I visited the Telkwa Range, I flew in to an area that is no longer accessible by motorized vehicle. Driving up the Howson Creek Road used to be a popular event before the bridge over the Telkwa River washed out and was recently rebuilt with a locked gate. Because of the resident Telkwa Mountain caribou herd, the area is now closed for public access except for a short hike-only period from July 15 to September 15.

So what is a motorized Telkwa Range enthusiast to do? Head down the road to explore the mountains to the north of the Telkwa River and leave the protected southern area in peace.

Microwave tower in the distance
The Telkwas are part of the Hazelton Mountain chain and overlook much of the Bulkley River Valley. The nicest part about the Winfield Creek Road area, also known as 119 Road, is that at the top, there are two microwave towers belonging to Telus and BC Hydro, which means the road is maintained throughout the year. Good news for summer hikers and winter skiers and snowmobilers because access is nine - tenths of the game!
The plateau on top
(the way out is marked- what could be easier?)
On top, a vast plateau opens up complete with an old "Cat" track to follow. You can get out and walk, push a stroller, drive a 4 wheeler or stay in your vehicle and explore from your window, over 10 km of rocky trail. There is a large pullout spot for snowmobile or 4 -wheeler trailers just before reaching the towers.

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