Armstrong has two trail networks a short drive from town. Mount Rose Swanson is the forested hill west of town, with loop trails and valley views. Thomas Hayes Ecological Park is a smaller forest south of town, with shorter and easier loops. The Armstrong Spallumcheen Trails Society looks after both.
Mount Rose Swanson
Mount Rose and Mount Swanson are the rounded hills on the west side of Armstrong. Forest trails loop to small summits and rock bluffs that look over the Spallumcheen Valley.
- Main loop: The Aspen and Centennial trails join to make a loop of 4.84 km.
- Side loops: Shorter loops branch off to the Mount Rose and Mount Swanson viewpoints.
- Climb: About 200 metres.
- Who uses it: Hikers, mountain bikers, and horse riders. Trail listings mark it as pet friendly.
- Signs: A map is posted at the trailhead and at each junction.
Getting there: Head west out of Armstrong on Salmon River Road for about 4 km, then turn onto Hallam Road.
Thomas Hayes Ecological Park
Thomas Hayes is a protected patch of Interior Douglas-fir forest with farmland all around it. The loops here are shorter and easier than the Rose Swanson trails. A picnic table sits along the trail.
Getting there: Go south of Armstrong, then east of Otter Lake Cross Road onto Thomas Hayes Road. The trailhead parking is 1.1 km along, on the left side.
Maps
The Trails Society posts maps at astrailssociety.com. The Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Centre at 3005 Wood Avenue has carried paper trail pamphlets.
Before you go
- Bring water.
- Summer brings fire bans and smoke. See open burning and campfire rules.
- Pack out your garbage.
Walks in town
For flat walks, playgrounds, and picnic tables, see our parks guide and playgrounds guide. For the pool and the arenas, see pool, arenas, and recreation.
Know a trail we missed? Send us a tip.