Route planning advice sought Vernon to Harrison

[Phoenix 800]

Hiya, were a couple of lazy old farts (from Victoria) on loaded 800's looking for a gravel ride from Vernon via Quilchena/ Douglas Lake to Boston Bar. It looks like the preferred route is Vernon -> Westwold -> Douglas Lake Road. Wondering if there's gentle gravel that would allow us to skip the slab section of 97? Then any recommendations from Merritt to Boston Bar, have had Kane Valley and Coldwater road suggested.

We've got 2 days and would love a camping stop part way through at one of the rec areas, will be there mid week. Any route recommendations and camping insights would be most welcome.

 

[NW Coaster]

I found a route a few weeks ago from Westside Road to Douglas Lake Road that would allow you to skip that section of 97. Take Beau Park road off Westside. Beau Park leads to Whiteman Creek Road (stay left) that takes you through a nice little canyon, then joins with Salmon River Road which takes you to Douglas Lake Rd. All easy riding. There is one gate on Salmon River Rd very near to Douglas Lake Road that was open when we went through, so no guarantees there. There could be another way out but you'd have to figure that out on your own.

 

[Phoenix 800]

I found a route a few weeks ago from Westside Road to Douglas Lake Road that would allow you to skip that section of 97. Take Beau Park road off Westside. Beau Park leads to Whiteman Creek Road (stay left) that takes you through a nice little canyon, then joins with Salmon River Road which takes you to Douglas Lake Rd. All easy riding. There is one gate on Salmon River Rd very near to Douglas Lake Road that was open when we went through, so no guarantees there. There could be another way out but you'd have to figure that out on your own.

Thanks for that tip and the track NW Coaster. Cheers