I've only recently become aware of Peachland's Gladstone trail thanks to one of the builders - Chris King, contacting me and describing the route.

The Gladstone trail is legally deemed a hike-only experience, though one will likely meet mountain-bikers on-trail, as the trail surface is conducive to same. While the trail starts out with a few back-to-back pitches, it soon mellows into a fairly tame ascent and a vista-laden experience, with excellent trail-surface throughout.

The trail enters mule-deer range and a FN Community Forest. Personally, and this is just me... but I don't agree with the notion that we should be banned from riding mountain bikes in mule-deer winter-range - in order that we don't disturb mule deer in the area.

Why? Because, as I understand it, the strategy is to allow successfull deer breeding - - so that hunters can have something to shoot at. . I wouldn't want to upset the deer, for fear of not being able to fill them with lead later... ,Yes, that's sarcasm; as a vegetarian, I have a tough time with that bit of logic.

At any rate, don't let my hunting rant get in the way of you heading up this beautiful little route for a couple of hours of amazing nature and vistas.

Be sure to sign the Guest Book affixed to the back of the bench at the first lookoff spot - itself a real gem.

This link will zoom you into the trailhead area - or if you prefer a text description to the trailhead: from the first set of lights, on the south side of Peachland; head up Princeton Ave., turn right onto Somerset Ave., then left onto Gladstone Rd., left onto Victoria St., and finally, right onto Harrington Crescent.

The trailhead is on your right, parallel to a fence, approximately 100m from the intersection of Harrington Cr. and Victoria St. The entire trail is well-signed.