Peach Cliff

From the trailhead off McLean Creek Road, the route begins fairly gently, passing through open grasslands, patches of antelope-brush, and the occasional stand of pine. Right away, you’ll see a small structure full of mining core samples—these relics of the old Dusty Mac Mine mark the area’s mining history. Shortly past this, there’s an old quarry pit (“Goldfish Pond”) that has filled with water; during warm seasons it may sparkle with orange goldfish.

The main trail winds upward gradually, though you’ll notice more rugged, steeper sections as you approach the top. Multiple paths and side-trails branch off, often created by past ATV use or by hikers. These tend to reconverge as you near the cliff edge. It’s helpful to keep the cliff face in sight once above the lower meadows, or aim for the gate above, which marks the beginning of the steeper final pitch.

The last stretch to the “summit” involves steeper terrain—rock, scree, and exposed smooth surfaces. The trail gets narrow in places, and there are few switchbacks, so expect a more direct climb. Once above the crest, hikers emerge onto the cliff edge and ridge tops, where views open in all directions.

From the top you’ll get striking panoramas: Skaha Lake to the west and valley below; Vaseux Lake and rolling hills to the south and east; plus a sweeping view over the town of Okanagan Falls. The geological setting is interesting too—Peach Cliff is a volcanic outcrop (trachyte) shaped by ancient activity and later ice and glacier work.

Along the ascent you’ll also pass natural highlights: varied wildflowers and grasses (an antelope-brush ecosystem), potential sightings of wildlife like California bighorn sheep and mule deer, and interesting rock features (balancing rocks, old mining cave openings).