Sanca Creek Trail Project: A Community Reconnection to Haystack Mountain
When one of our hikers slipped crossing the dilapidated Sanca Creek bridge in late
2024, it sparked more than concern—it lit the flame for a major community effort. That
single moment launched a year-long initiative that not only replaced the unsafe crossing
but revitalized an entire trail that had long been in decline.
More Than a Bridge — A Trail Reborn
The 36-foot aluminum bridge, helicoptered in and bolted securely over Sanca Creek in
September 2025 has become the project’s crown jewel. But it’s just one part of a much
bigger story.
Throughout the spring and summer of 2025, the Sanca Creek Trail project was truly a team effort. TCVS volunteers logged over 147 hours of hands-on fieldwork, supported by many more hours of planning, coordination, and administration. Working alongside professional trail crews and partners—including Recreation Sites and Trails BC, BC Parks, the Ministry of Forests, and Arrowstone Forest Contracting—this collective effort transformed the trail from a challenging and deteriorating route into a safe and welcoming backcountry gem.
Among the upgrades:
• Eight wooden footbridges constructed across small streams and tributaries
• Seven boardwalks laid down over wetland sections
• Seven kilometers of the overgrown access roads cleared, re-opening the route to the public
• Heavy bridge timbers, decking and planks hand-carried deep into the trail
This was no small feat. Timber was hauled in by trail crews,
including volunteers, navigating tight, brushy terrain over multiple days. They built
abutments, gathered rocks from the creek bed for cribs, and carefully crafted sturdy
structures designed to last through snowpack, floods, and heavy foot traffic.
A Trail With a View—and a Future
The Sanca Creek Trail isn’t just another path in the woods. It’s a connector to the
Kianuko Provincial Park and the legendary Haystack Mountain, the Kootenays best
hidden trail. Along the route, hikers pass through changing forest zones, rich with larch
trees that put on a dazzling golden show every fall. The trail’s views, especially during
larch season, are among the finest in the Creston Valley region.
From vibrant wildflowers to whispering creeks, this trail is a three-season
experience: peaceful meanders in the spring and summer to larch viewing in the fall.
A Community Effort
Behind the transformation is a network of dedicated volunteers, with TCVS project lead
Jerry Bauer at the helm. His tireless coordination, grant writing, and planning brought
together funders, engineers, and a deeply committed ground crew.
Funding came from a mix of Columbia Basin Trust Community Development Funds,
RDCK Area A, B, and C Discretionary Grants, Redi Grants, Creston Valley Community
Foundation, Canfor, Creston Community Fores, BC Parks, Ministry of Forests and Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC).
Despite the challenging access road and the remote terrain, volunteers pulled off an
incredible feat. Their reward? A safer, more accessible route, and the pride of knowing
they’ve helped restore a trail system that connects people to nature—and each other.
Looking Ahead
Thanks to the success of the Sanca Creek Trail upgrades, TCVS is now better
equipped and more motivated than ever to continue its mission of reviving and
maintaining local trails. With this major milestone behind us, ongoing stewardship and
annual trail maintenance will ensure this route remains open and safe for generations to
come.
