Saddleback Ridge Trail

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The Saddleback Ridge Trail is a 15.5 km out-and-back hiking route in Premier Lake Provincial Park that will take hikers on a steep uphill climb through the forest to reach the ridge. From the top of the trail, you will experience some breathtaking views that stretch out across the valley and look down on the blue waters of Premier Lake below. Make sure to bring bear spray, travel in groups, and make lots of noise along the trail, as bears are frequently spotted in the area.

Route Description for Saddleback Ridge Trail

Hiking up the Saddleback Ridge Trail is definitely a challenging trek due to the steep nature of the route and the fact that sections of it are overgrown. With over 1,600 m of elevation gain along the trail, you will most certainly be feeling this hike in your legs over the following days. Setting out from the Premier Lake Provincial Park Campground, the trail heads east through the dense forest cover towards the rugged mountain peaks of the Rockies. The trail is a bit overgrown and you won’t have many great views until roughly the 7.0 km mark, so keep pushing your way uphill towards the ridge. Eventually you will have some pretty amazing views that sweep across the valley with Premier Lake nestled on the valley floor. Continue hiking up to the top of the ridge as the trail gets steep. Once you reach the top, you will have an even greater view out to the Purcell Mountains to the west. After taking in the views, carefully head back down the trail to return to the campground.

Getting to the Saddleback Ridge Trail Trailhead

To get to the Saddleback Ridge Trail from Skookumchuck, drive north on Sheep Creek Road for 750 m and make a slight right on Premier Lake Road. Follow this for 7.0 km and turn right onto N Lussier River Road. After 1.6 km, make a slight right on Wasa Sheep Creek Road, followed by a slight left turn to continue on the same road for another 1.0 km. Turn right on Premier Ridge Road and follow it for 2.5 km. Make a left turn, followed by an immediate left to reach the trailhead at Premier Lake Provincial Park Campground.