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Skaha
Bluffs Provincial Park
Skaha Bluffs are located on the east side of Skaha Lake just south
of Penticton.
How
to get Here
In order to get to the Skaha Bluffs from Penticton,
take South Main Street to Smythe Drive. This is approximately 3
km (2 miles) south of the main beach at Skaha Lake. You then travel
left or east on Smythe Drive up a steep gravel road, which then
changes to pavement for most of the way, to a large parking lot.
TLC
Partnership with BC Government
Skaha Bluffs at one time had limited access and sections like the
original parking lot were held in private hands. Through a careful
negotiation and a funds raiser, lead by the Land Conservancy of
British Columbia (TLC), Mountain Equipment Co-op and Nature Conservancy
of Canada, a 304 hectares (751 acres) property next to the Skaha
Bluffs has been acquired.
Class
A Provincial Park Status
By partnership with these and other groups and with the BC government
adding 179 hectares (442 acres) of Crown Land the Skaha Bluffs has
since been given British Columbia Class A provincial park status.
The newly established park is comprised of fairly rugged terrain,
riparian areas and some shrub-steppe grasslands in a coniferous
forest setting. The bluff area is also known to include California
bighorn sheep and several species of wildlife at risk.
Rock
Climbing
The Skaha Bluffs are a very popular rock climbing destination in
British Columbia. The climbing routes through the bluffs have been
clearly defined in maps and various books and are internationally
known as a world-class climbing destination. From the parking lot
there are various signs and trails pointing out the way to go for
the various climbing routes which are situated in three parallel
canyons.
Climbing
Routes
Most of the climbs are generally less than 30 meters (100 feet)
high. A favourite climbing route and one of the first to come to
when walking into the park is called the 'Fortress.' From the top
of this bluff there is a beautiful view overlooking Skaha Lake and
Penticton. Other notable climbs and names include the Doctors Wall,
The Great White Wall, The Grand Canyon, The Belfry and Red Tail.
Many of the climbs have existing bolts, anchors and holds already
set in the various rock faces making it easier for novice climbers.
Park
Facilities
The
facilities at Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park are very limited. Located
at the large parking lot are some pit toilets, signs and a notice
board. There is no water available at all in the park, so make sure
you pack some in as the area is very dry and dehydration can come
on quick.
Panoramic
Views
The park has several trails offering outstanding panoramic views
of Skaha Lake towards Kaleden
from several vistas, wildlife viewing opportunities and an opportunity
to watch and get introduced into rock climbing. For people who enjoy
a good walk there is a trail route that circumvents the park. The
trails are quite rugged so a good hiking boot with lots of ankle
support is highly recommended.
Information,
Maps and Books on Skaha Bluffs
If you require more information on of the Skaha Bluffs a laminated
map at a cost of four dollars can be obtained through Peach City
Runners & Nordic Ski on 214 Main Street in Penticton. A book
by local climber Howie Richardson offered from Elaho Publishing
called, "Skaha Rockclimbs" is helpful. There is also Skaha
Climbing website that includes routes and local discussion.
Skaha
Rock Adventures Ltd.
For people learning to climb or would like to have a guide experience
you have several options available including Skaha Rock Adventures
Ltd. Operating from Penticton into to the Skaha Bluffs since 1993,
Skaha Rock Adventures offers technical training in a wide variety
of instructional and guiding services.
Information
on the Skaha Bluffs
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