Twenty‑three members of the Caledonia Ramblers set out for a day of classic northern British Columbia hiking, beginning with the short but rewarding walk to Muskeg Falls. The trail near Bear Lake is known for its gentle terrain followed by a steeper final descent, leading to a creek‑side viewpoint overlooking the small but striking waterfall. Historically, the surrounding muskeg landscape reflects the region’s deep ecological roots: the term muskeg comes from the Cree word maskek, meaning “low‑lying marsh,” and describes the peat‑rich wetlands common throughout the boreal north. These ecosystems form slowly over centuries as cool temperatures and saturated soils prevent full decomposition, creating the spongy, waterlogged ground that characterizes much of northern BC.

After enjoying the falls, the group continued north toward Coffeepot Mountain, an easy but scenic hike that traces the rim of an ancient volcano. The mountain’s distinctive rounded shape has long been recognized locally—its name was officially adopted in 1962—and early explorers used its summit as a survey point before aerial mapping became common. The loop around the summit offers views of nearby Teapot Mountain and a small lake nestled at the top, making it a favourite destination for hikers seeking a mix of geological history and panoramic vistas.

Photos submitted by Rita Lama.