Greenstone Mountain Park

Park overview

Greenstone Mountain Park was created as a result of recommendations made in the Kamloops Land and Resources Management Plan. Hiking and nature study opportunities exist in the park, though no camping or day-use facilities are provided.

The mountain top, accessible by road, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lakes and dry valley environments of the Thompson Valley. This park displays a series of high elevation grasslands and includes the most northerly occurrence of Vasey’s big sagebrush. In 1998, Greenstone Mountain had a major forest fire which burned only marginally into the northeast section of the park.

Advisories

Safety info

Water sources are scarce in this area. Visitors should bring their own water. Any water taken from the park should be boiled, filtered or treated before consuming.
Wood ticks are most prevalent between March and June. These parasites reside in tall grass and low shrubbery and seek out warm-blooded hosts. Although they are potential carriers of disease, they are a natural part of the environment and can be easily avoided. Your legs should be protected by wearing trousers tucked into socks or gaiters. After outdoor activity, thoroughly examine yourself. Check your pets for ticks as well. For more information, view the Visitor Safety Information below.

Special notes

There are no toilet facilities in the park. Visitors should exercise proper backcountry sanitation procedures. Deposit human waste in cat holes which are six to eight inches deep and should be located at least 100 ft from any water source. Thoroughly cover and disguise cate holes when finished. Bury toilet paper as well Do not burn it.
Campfires are not permitted. If a fire is used for an emergency, please keep it small and ensure it is completely out before you leave. Use a camp stove for cooking.
There are no developed or designated camping areas in this park. Backpackers need to practice no impact camping. This area is entirely user-maintained.

Activities

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Hiking

There are a number of informal trails throughout the area. One trail follows under the power lines. This trail is steep and rocky. This trailhead is found near the radio tower.

Fishing

The park encompasses Kwilalkuila Lake.

Anyone fishing in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence. To learn more, see the fishing and hunting guide.

Pets on leash

Backcountry areas are rarely suited for dogs due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears. Pets and domestic animals must be on a leash at all times.

Cycling

This area is very popular for mountain biking. Trails can be very steep and rocky. Bicycle helmets are mandatory in British Columbia.

Please note that bicycles with electric assist motors (e-bikes) are not allowed on the trails within Greenstone Mountain Park. E-bikes are restricted to park roads and areas where motorized use is permitted. The only exception to this policy will be for authorized and identified trail maintenance bikes conducting work on behalf of BC Parks.

Horseback riding

Horseback riding is permitted.

Winter recreation

Depending on snow levels and vehicle access, there are snowshoeing opportunities. Snowmobiling is permitted. A forest service look-out at the top of the mountain has been refurbished and is maintained by local snowmobile and ATV groups for the use of the public as an emergency shelter and viewing destination. This lookout is not on park land.

The park is located approximately 20 km southwest of Kamloops. Access is off Highway # 1 near Cherry Cr. via Greenstone Mountain Forest Service Road, or off of the Logan Lake (Meadow Creek) Road via the Dominic Forest Service Rd., then a service road for the communications tower.

Park and activity maps

Location Map

Learn more about this park

Park details

Date established: July 28, 1997
Size: 124 hectares

Nature and culture

History

Greenstone Mt. was designated a Provincial Park in May 1996 through the Kamloops LRMP.

Conservation

Within the park, high elevation grasslands are in excellent condition. At 1,793 meters this is one of the highest elevations which Vasey’s big sagebrush has been discovered growing. Blue-bunch wheatgrass and various forbs are bordered by a mix of lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, aspen and spruce. The talus and cliff faces add to the diversity of the local habitat.

Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples

BC Parks honours Indigenous Peoples’ connection to the land and respects the importance of their diverse teachings, traditions, and practices within these territories. This park webpage may not adequately represent the full history of this park and the connection of Indigenous Peoples to this land. We are working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to update our websites so that they better reflect the history and cultures of these special places.