My Story:

I began developing my appreciation for the spectacular scenery I was growing up in back in my youth, as my parents would take us out for hikes in the area. As I got older and got my drivers' license, I spent alot of time exploring the Chilliwack River valley and spent alot of time hiking and camping.

Naturally, I took a camera along in my travels, an old 35mm SLR at the time. The Chilliwack River Valley and it's trails have for most of my life been a source of rejuvenation and appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds us.

Of course my outdoor travels and photographic journeys have taken me well beyond the Chilliwack area, but trails such as Elk Mountain always calls me back to it's forested slopes and tantalizing ridge walks.

While I have been appreciative of the network of logging roads that have given me access to mountains that would otherwise have been difficult and time consuming, I have also seen over the years logging overtake sections of less popular trails in the area, like the Liumchen Lake and the Sumas Mountain trails.

The Elk Mountain Trail however is not some obscure trail that is only enjoyed by 10's or even 100's a year. This is a trail that receives heavy year-round use all year round. To me it's absurd that such a popular trail that is enjoyed by families, hikers, backpackers, paragliders, snowshoers, naturalists and school groups is even being seriously considered to be overtaken by a logging road and eventual clear-cuts is almost unbelieveable.

If there ever was a time when a logging company tried to go for the jugular as far as ravaging our beloved trail system, this is a prime example. As an avid hiker, backpacker and nature photographer, I am truly appauled that I and others are now fighting for a trail and it's surroundings that should have a protected status from such destruction.

I hope that mine and other's efforts will result in this trail and forest area be protected for future generations.

Tim Epp


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