Setting out from Quesnel, the trail to Pinnacles Provincial Park’s hoodoos offers an engaging slice of British Columbia’s rugged terrain. These unusual hoodoos rise sharply from the earth, their weather-carved spires daring you to traverse the rocky path that connects them. The hike covers roughly 5.5 kilometers round trip with a steady elevation gain of about 150 meters, threading through pockets of dense forest and open rocky slopes. Underfoot, expect a mix of packed dirt, exposed roots, and some loose gravel, demanding sturdy footwear and careful footing. Trees extend their branches overhead, occasionally shifting in the mountain breeze that pushes forward like a force testing your resolve.

The trail’s rhythm ebbs and flows — shaded stretches cool the skin while clearing vistas reveal the broader Cariboo landscape. Approach the hoodoos slowly: their forms stand fiercely distinct, each pillar carved into a shape marked by time and elements. The crisp air carries the scent of pine and dry earth, and distant calls of birds punctuate the silence, reminding you that this land moves with its own pulse.

Plan your hike starting early in the day to avoid midday heat and to capture the best lighting on the formations. Bring at least two liters of water; there are no reliable water sources along the path. Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots will help you tackle the varied terrain comfortably and safely. Weather shifts quickly in this region, so layering is wise—it’s a practical shield against sun or sudden gusts.

While the trail is moderate, it remains a test of endurance and focus. The hoodoos themselves act as silent sentries, challenging every adventurer to respect the landscape’s power while inviting intimate exploration. This hike isn’t just a walk; it’s engaging with a land fiercely itself and richly rewarding for all who join it.