Possibly the best wildflower display in the West Kootenay is seen here from mid-July to mid-August every year. At a level with Idaho Peak and only a few kilometres north, Dennis Basin offers easy access, no people, a bigger area to explore and wildlife, often grizzly bear.
This area of Dennis is a difficult hike with no trails above the saddle. Majority of this hike beyond the saddle is C3 = off-trail, steep & loose terrain, and route finding. There are great views of Alps Alturas, Reco Mt, Idaho Peak and London Ridge.
Difficulty: B2-C3
Elevation gain: 353m (1160′) +
Distance: 2.5 km one way. 12 km for the loop of the ridges
Time: 1.5 hours one-way. 5-6 hours for the loop.
Season: Mid-July to mid-August for the best wildflowers.
Access: Moderate 4WD for the last km.
Map: 82K/3 Roseberry
Drive:
0.0 From Highway 6 at Roseberry, turn north onto East Wilson Creek Road, which soon turns into the Wilson Creek FSR.
2.7km Turn right onto Hicks Creek Road. High clearance. 5.5km Go left.
12.8km Go right to Dennis Basin at a 4×4 post on your right painted brown with white lettering. Left goes on the main road to Alps Alturas. This last bit of road is steep and rough, climbing 122m (400′) in 1 kilometre. 4WD.
13.8km Park. TH marked by another 4×4 post.
Trail/Route: It is a steady climb up a skid trail through an old cut block, full of flowers in season. The trail narrows as it enters a subalpine forest, follows a small stream and emerges into a basin below the pass. Climb to the low pass up and to the left following cairns and a stream. The pass (1.5 hours) has panoramic views and is a good place for a snack or lunch while you decide which ridge to walk – where are the best flowers?
The first ridge to the left of the first saddle climbs high to the ridge between Marten and Dennis creeks. Continue on the extensive ridgeline by dropping down to another saddle and continuing to the far ridge and up a 2nd summit. There are another 2 summits beyond. It’s about 12 kms total distance.
