Park Info
Brent Mountain Protected Area was established on April 18, 2001. It is the only alpine area protected in the Southern Thompson Upland ecosection. Within the protected area is an extensive system of wetlands along stream channels as well as krummholz (very old, low-growing shrub varieties of sub-alpine fir and spruce), subalpine parkland, and subalpine and alpine meadows. A former BC Forest Service fire lookout sits atop the Brent Mountain adding to the recreational appeal of the area which provides a variety of regional outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, horse use and snowmobiling.
Park Size: 4,344 hectares
Stay Safe:
- Potable water is not available in the park. Water from the streams must be treated by boiling, using idodine tablets or filterning.
- The Brent Mountain fire lookout is used as a warming hut when required.
General Visitor Information
Location
Bounded by Broken Creek to the southwest, extending west from the height of land along Sheep Rock and Brent Mountain and encompassing the headwaters of Shingle Creek, Skulaow Creek, June Creek and Shatford Creek, Brent Mountain Protected Area is 22 km west of Penticton. Access to Brent Mountain and Sheep Rock trail heads area via Green Mountain and Apex Mountain roads. Turn right at 4.1km up Apex Road onto a currently unnamed road. Follow this for 3.7km, turn left and follow for 2.1km to a fork in the road; stay right 700m to the Sheep Rock trailhead parking area. The Brent Mountain trailhead is 1.8km further; then turn left to the parking area. The nearest community, town or city is Penticton.
Nature & Culture
Cultural Heritage - Though the area is most well-known for recreation opportunities, there are important natural values present. The alpine meadows contain red-listed lupins and, traditionally, the area was used by First Nations for plant gathering.
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Activities Available At This Park
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| Fishing |
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| Hiking |
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Brent Mountain offers wilderness recreation for users with knowledge of the area and good outdoor skills. There are well established hiking trails put in by enthusiasts using the area prior to its designation as a protected area. Some signage remains from the Ministry of Forests and trails are marked by fluorescent markers nailed to trees but many need replacement. More markers are needed, as are signs and maps.
The Shatford Creek Trail is roughly 10 km. It is well marked and easy to follow with an elevation gain of about 720m to the Sheep Rock alpine area. Sheep Rock is made up of rolling sub-alpine and alpine meadows and affords panoramic views to the Coast and Monashee Mountains as well as the Okanagan Valley. Allow 7-8 hours return.
The Brent Mountain Trail is roughly 5 km. It is well marked and leads to the summit of Brent Mountain (2203m) after an elevation gain of 444m. It too offers rolling alpine meadows and 360 degree views of the Okanagan Valley and the Coast and Monashee Mountains as well as an unused Forest Service fire lookout. Allow 4-5 hours return.
For your own safety and the preservation of the park, obey posted signs and keep to designated trails. Shortcutting trails destroys plant life and soil structure.
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| Horseback Riding |
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Horseback riding is allowed.
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| Hunting |
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| Pets on Leash |
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Pets/domestic animals must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed in beach areas or park buildings. You are responsible for their behaviour and must dispose of their excrement.Backcountry areas are not suitable for dogs or other pets due to wildlife issues and the potential for problems with bears.
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| Winter Recreation |
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Though there are no cross-country ski trails in the area, it is close to the Nickel Plate cross-country area. The rolling sub-alpine and alpine terrain offers snowshoeing opportunities but there are no trails or maps. Given the summer hiking times of 4-8 hours return and the lack of facilities, snowshoeing in the protected area must be well planned and visitors well prepared with all necessary equipment. This is a backcountry area and tobogganing opportunities are limited. Sheep Rock has long been a destination for local snowmobilers. The open terrain provides excellent riding opportunities and breathtaking views of the Okanagan. The fire lookout is a great spot to warm up. Snowmobilers are reminded to take care and avoid damaging vegetation protruding from the snow.
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Facilities Available At This Park
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| Pit or Flush Toilets |
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There is a Ministry of Forests pit toilet at the lookout.
