MCNALLY CREEK TRAVERSE (OASIS OVERLOOK)

McNally Creek lies between Hanna Creek and Murphy Creek on the west side of the Columbia Valley, just behind the metropolis of Oasis, 6km North of Trail, 20km South of Castlegar. It has great views of the entire Rossland Range.

Difficulty: A2 easy on the first part of the hike along Hanna Creek, the rest is off-trail, rated B2
Distance: 8 km
Elevation: 550 m 

Drive. On Highway 22 to the Rivervale/Oasis intersection, just a few kilometres north of the Teck smelter. Park at the south end of Hanna Road, where it meets Hwy 22, close to Hanna Creek. 

Trail. Start by following a good trail (A1) up beside Hanna Creek to the base of the prominent high ground behind Oasis. Then scramble up a rocky ridge (B3 – steep workout but no exposure) to the top.  There are good views to the east. Then walk a short distance around to another viewpoint with a terrific panorama of the Rossland range.
From the top, head north cross-country (B2) along the rim, traversing around the McNally Creek drainage.  This part has no trail but is relatively easy with minor route finding. Exit the rim at the north end near Murphy Creek, and descend on a gentle ramp through open country – the best time is in the spring when the dense ferns are flattened from the winter. Then pick up another trail (A1) that ends at the north end of Hanna Road where it meets Highway 22 just south of Murphy Creek.