Zoa Peak Trail

Zoa Peak Trail sits just off the Coquihalla near Hope, BC, and it’s a short, sharp grind with a big alpine payoff. This 8 km out-and-back with about 645 m of gain feels challenging but not technical, and most hikers wrap it up in around three and a half to four hours. It’s a nice alternative when Flatiron and Needle are packed, and you still want real elevation and ridge views without a full epic.

The route starts right from the forest service road and wastes no time climbing. The first 2 km are a steady slog in the trees, but once you break out into the subalpine, the grade eases and the views open up to layers of Coquihalla peaks and, on a clear day, a glimpse toward Falls Lake. In summer you’ll often get wildflowers and blueberries along the way, and the ridge section near the top gives you that classic wide-open feel while still being easy to follow with good flagging and cell service most of the way.

Recent reports on Zoa Peak Trail mention an overgrown connector right at the start between the two roads, which can mean wet legs and a bit of bushwhacking; in early season many people just head straight up the second road or come with snowshoes once snow deepens. Expect lingering snow and soft sections above about 1,700 m in late fall and spring, where spikes or snowshoes are often useful, and full winter travel here needs proper gear and navigation. In summer it can be hot, dry, and buggy, with mosquitoes especially bad on the ridge some years, so bring lots of water and serious bug spray. There are no toilets at the trailhead; the closest are at Falls Lake parking, Zopkios truck stop, or Britton Creek, and that cold creek by the lot makes a great post-hike rinse before grabbing a drink at Zopkios.