Thursday, July 4, 2019

Wheelchair Accessible trail opens in Bull Canyon Provincial Park

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

Yesterday, a new wheelchair accessible trail opened at Bull Canyon Provincial Park, six kilometres west of Alexis Creek, on Highway 20. This is the latest accessible trail to open in the Cariboo Regional District’s network, which aims to increase outdoor wilderness recreation opportunities for people of all mobility levels.

“This new trail is in a beautiful part of the Cariboo Chilcotin region and is a great addition to our growing accessible trail network,” said Chad Mernett, CRD Electoral Area K Director. “Thank you to our partners including the Alexis Creek Community Services and Development Society, NDIT, BC Parks and the province. It is through these types of projects that we can continue building communities together.”

The new trail travels through forest with views of the glacial blue Chilcotin River and views of mountain bluffs. The trail has a viewpoint near the river, an accessible outhouse in the campground area nearby and plenty of parking space.

At the trailhead, an information kiosk displays the details of the Bull Canyon Provincial Park Accessible Trail. With a packed, crushed gravel surface, the trail is about one kilometre long and has a gentle grade and one small hill.

“It is really great to work together on projects like this to make the beauty of the area available to people of all abilities. This will provide another tourism opportunity along the Highway 20 corridor and give people more of a reason to visit stop and experience the Chilcotin,” stated Rick Mumford, Alexis Creek Community Services and Development Society Chair.  “This trail has been a long time coming and now that it’s here it is going to be a great asset to everyone.”
 

“I am delighted about the new opportunities this trail will bring to families and citizens of all abilities visiting the park.” says George Heyman, BC Environment Minister.  “Building a better B.C. for people of all abilities is a priority for our government and partnerships like this foster opportunities for those with accessibility impairments, so they can also enjoy our spectacular natural spaces like Bull Canyon Provincial Park.”
 

”The Cariboo’s impressive accessible trail network is a testament to the hard work of the Cariboo Regional District and all the partners who support the creation and maintenance of these community assets. By investing in nearly two dozen accessible trails, the Cariboo is becoming a more attractive and inclusive place to live and visit.” stated Joel McKay, CEO, Northern Development Initiative Trust.

The trail was built in partnership between the Cariboo Regional District, the Alexis Creek Community Services and Development Society, BC Parks, Northern Development Initiative Trust, and the provincial government. BC Parks will provide ongoing management of the site.

Learn more about the other 22 trails in the CRD’s accessible trail network at cariboord.ca/accessible-trails. An interactive story map is available to explore the network in a unique way.

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