Curtis Lake (Creston)

Site Description: From the trailhead the ATV trail climbs steadily up the valley on an old road, through a logged area. Shortly after crossing a stream on stepping stones, watch for a path marked with fluorescent orange squares. The path climbs steeply, working its way through dense undergrowth. It passes through a wet sub-alpine meadow just before the lake. Curtis Lake, at 1829 m (6000 feet) is a beautifully shaped and coloured body of water, surrounded by peaks up to 2,222 m (7,289 feet) tall. The combination of rock, water, balsam fir and lush sub-alpine meadow vegetation make this spot one of the loveliest in the area. Open scree and talus slopes invite ridge walking. Curtis Lake is a popular with fishermen. There is one small campsite at the lake.

Driving Directions: From the junction of Highway 3B and 3/6 in Salmo, travel south on Highway 6 towards Creston for 7.2 km. Turn left onto "Airport Road", opposite the Kootenay Stone Centre. Travel 2.3 km north, crossing over the Sheep Creek bridge. Turn right onto "Sheep Creek Road". This road is paved for the first half kilometre, then turns into a good 2 wheel drive gravel road. There are many roads branching off the Sheep Creek Road, choose the most travelled route that follows along the valley bottom, close to the creek. (Most junctions will have a sign directing you up the Sheep Creek Road.) At 13.6 km the road forks, go right, over the bridge. At 14.5 take the right fork. The Trail head is 14.8 KM, there are a few large rocks at the start of the ATV trail blocking vehicle traffic.