Fat Dog Trail

Route Description for Fat Dog Trail

The Fat Dog Trail is a winter access only route in E.C. Manning Provincial Park that is a popular destination for hiking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. Due to the trail only being open in the winter months, this route is largely used for skiing and snowshoeing, but hiking with microspikes or crampons is possible depending on the amount of snow along the trail. For those travelling on foot, it is best to hike off to the side of the trail so as not to disturb any previously laid ski tracks along the route. Make sure to dress appropriately for the conditions along the trail and bring any necessary gear and supplies for the trek including plenty of water, bear spray, and appropriate footwear/hiking poles to help traverse the snowy terrain.

This 14.8 km trail climbs gradually uphill for an elevation gain of 697 m, making for a fairly easy-going trek into the backcountry of E.C. Manning Provincial Park. There are no real steep or difficult to navigate sections along the trail, but it does travel along a relatively unmarked route that is easy to follow. Initial stretches of this route climb uphill through the forest for approximately 5.0 km before opening up into a scenic alpine meadow with views of the surrounding mountains. At the end of the trail, you will be able to experience an amazingly picturesque sightline over the rugged mountains including Frosty Mountain to the south, Three Brothers Mountain to the northeast, and much of the North Cascades Range. This amazing trail offers the perfect winter wonderland if you are planning a trip to E.C. Manning Provincial Park.

Setting out on the trail next to the Cambie Creek Campground, make your way past the signpost along the flat, tree-lined path. You will soon reach a fork in the trail. Follow the route to the right to cross over a creek and continue on a path that skirts alongside the rushing waters of the Similkameen River. After a few hundred metres, you will cross over a bridge spanning the river, following along with the sound of the water as it now flows to your left.

Continue along the Fat Dog Trail as you keep right at the next two trail junctions. From this point on, there will not be any more trail markers or signs; however, the route is well-travelled and easy to follow.

The next portion of the trail will climb up and down a series of hills that present the most difficult (but very manageable) parts of the route. After making your way up the long grind of the last hill, the trail will level out for a bit before gently climbing for the remainder of the hike. As you make your way up these final kilometres, you will notice that the tree cover will begin to dissipate, opening up to beautiful alpine views.

From this open viewpoint at the end of the trail, you will be able to look out over the natural beauty of the surrounding area within and beyond the park, with Three Brothers Mountain to the northeast and Frosty Mountain and the United States to the south. After breathing in the crisp mountain air and taking in the majestic views of E.C. Manning Provincial Park, make your way back down the Fat Dog Trail to return to the parking lot below.

Hiking Route Highlights

North Cascades

The North Cascades are a portion of the Cascade Mountain Range that spans a part of the Canada-United States border between British Columbia and Washington State. This area is known for its difficult mountaineering and rugged terrain, but also for its scenic alpine meadows that provide relief to the otherwise dramatic landscape.