The Ecstasy

Agony and Ecstasy (Part 2)

Pleasant Surprise

The day after our disappointment at not negotiating the road into Nickel Plate Lake, we set out to find Conkle Lake hoping to salvage what was left of our holiday. Driving south to Osoyoos, we then went up the Anachist and past Bridesville, turning off at Johnson Creek. The road was a little rough but not too bad, and we finally we pulled in to Conkle Lake Park and set up in a site overlooking the lake. (Note: this is also known as Hackmatack or Fish Lake.) At 1167 metres elevation it is a mid-level lake, so I expected fishing to be reasonably good even during the summer. Conkle has a generous stocking program of about 8,000 fry a year. So there is a healthy population of Rainbow trout.

This is quite a deep lake with an average depth just over 22 metres, but it also has some good shallow feeding areas. Usually there are several loons on the lake, taking advantage of the stocking program I guess.
The weather remained beautiful and we spent the next three days exploring the trails that were under construction. The beach was a little rocky, but we enjoyed some refreshing swims and a little fishing. It is possible to drive to the shore to launch a small boat or canoe.

The mallard ducks were not too nervous and were often swimming near the public swimming area. Much to our surprise and to that of the ducks, a man swam under water, grabbed one by the feet and lifted it out of the water. Such quacking and flapping of Wings!

While Tricia and the kids puttered at the swimming area, I tried my luck on the weedy shallows on either side and had some reasonable strikes. It was kind of nice being able to fish and keep an eye on the children at the same time.

Later we took a walk on the trail under construction down one side of the lake and also checked out a few old roads. One of the highlights of our hiking, though, was the trail up to the falls. They were not huge, but still really enjoyable even at this time. In the spring and early summer however, these are quite a sight with lots of water.

Since that time, many people have discovered Conkle Lake, so be prepared for alternate plans if the campground and overflow are full, a good plan wherever you go and whenever you go, as it is surprising how often campers all have the same ideas at once.

Since that first trip we have been back many times and have explored a few different routes coming back. The second trip we went down to Carmi and Beaverdale for a visit. It was rather hair-raising as the tent trailer kept pushing the Chevelle Malibu towards the steep bank when I braked. Taking my foot off the brake I would steer towards the inner bank and repeat the procedure. Reason enough to change vehicle and trailer combination!

I had also heard that it was possible to get out to the Weyerhaeuser 201 road. Without a map and going by gut instinct we finally made our way over to Venner Meadows and the Weyerhaeuser road. It was a rather nerve racking trip too. Road signs were lacking and we soon were very worried about having enough fuel to make it out. It was one of those trips where you did not meet any other traffic. (Note to self, always fill the tank before heading to the hills to explore.)