The Hudson’s Bay Company (1849) Heritage Trail was officially opened on the weekend, attracting hundreds of participants who celebrated at either end of the trail.
In Tulameen, 165 people attended and organizers eventually ran out of bannock and coffee to feed them. Hope witnessed the arrival of 100 people, who came in spite of heavy rain. Participants at both ends of the historic trail were treated to displays, costumed re-enactors, and a black powder rifle blast that officially opened the historical trail.
Four hundred pieces of bannock were donated and cooked on site by Lisa Friesen and coffee was donated by the Blue Moose. Hope Mountain Centre and volunteers organized both events, working with the Backcountry Horsemen of B.C.
“Many hikers and horse riders from our region will be travelling the 74 km HBC Trail this summer, enjoying the improvements that have been made over the past seven years,” said Kelly Pearce of Hope Mountain Centre.
The trail was made possible by Hope Mountain Centre, contractors, and a group of volunteers who dedicated countless hours over the years to restore it.
Also, known as the “Brigade Trail,” the Heritage Trail served as the Hudson's Bay Company's main fur route from 1849 to 1860.
Its existence was paramount to the survival of the Hudson's Bay Company and prevented the devolution of B.C. to the United States, earning its national significance.
“What inspires me most about the HBC Trail is the volunteers. Thousands of volunteer hours worth more than $50,000 have been donated in the last seven years. These folks have passion and take pride in the project, building a loyal constituency for the trail,” said Pearce.
For more information about the Trail, visit hopemountain.org