Zoa Peak

Located in the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area, the hike to Zoa Peak follows a ridge offering incredible views of Zum Peak, Thar Peak, and Nak Peak.

Begin your hike form the parking lot by walking up the gravel road, across the creek, and stay on the road as you pass the sign pointing towards Falls Lake. Continue up the gravel trail until you reach a 2nd sign, then go left to Zoa Peak.

The trail climbs steeply under a cover of alder trees before veering right and following another old road uphill. This section climbs quickly and there is very little shade, making for a hot hike in the middle of summer.

Eventually, the trail reaches another sign which points left to Zoa Peak. Go left and follow the trail, carefully climbing up the rocks and continuing through a forested section of trail. The trail passes a brief open clearing, where there are a few views to be seen in the distance, before continuing uphill in the trees.

Not as steep as in the beginning, the trail begins to level as you pass quickly through open trees within the sub alpine. At, what appears to be a junction, go right and follow the markers. A short distance further, go left at a junction. Keep an eye out for markers on trees and make sure to keep following them.

The trail climbs up onto some rocky outcrops and where some of the first views can be seen, including the big mountain far ahead in the distance called Zum Peak. Continue to follow the trail as it makes its way over the rocky section of Zoa's false peak as you continue to enjoy the views.

The trail descends suddenly and, at the bottom, there is a spectacular view of Thar Peak to the left. After enjoying the view, begin to ascend a steep section of trail that will be the final ascent to Zoa Peak. As you walk up the steep hill, look back occasionally to take in the views down the valley.

The trail begins to level and continues further until it reaches a rock with a sign with a notice that this marks the end of the maintained trail. While there is no main viewpoint at the end, it is worth continuing a few minutes further along the trail and looking for a couple of viewpoints. One viewpoint provides a good view of Zum Peak to the north. You may be able to catch some glimpses between the trees of Thar Peak and Yak Peak to the south.

After exploring the area, begin your hike back in the direction that you arrived. Be careful hiking back as there are several worn trails near the end and it's easy to follow one of them, taking your in the wrong direction. Make sure to pass the sign marking the end of the maintained trail, then follow the trail back as it will descend back down into the valley with the view of Thar Peak.

The views on the way back are quite spectacular as you make your way through he alpine. The trail descends back down into the trees as you descend quickly. After passing through the forest, you eventually reach the sign with the open trail. Go right and follow it downhill to the 2nd sign. Go right again and return to the parking lot where you began.

Since you are in the area, it's also worth the short hike to Falls Lake, which is only about 900m away.