The Alpine Cross is a part of the more recent Boston Bar and the Fraser Canyon history. We have inherited this legacy, established in 1992 by Fred Pfenniger and his family, when we acquire this property which is home to the Alpine Cross. Our family definitely feel very fortunate to be the new Stewarts of this land for the Pfennigers have done a wonderful job shaping its landscape, building its homes and out buildings, and planting the beginnings of a food forest.
The Alpine Cross sits upon a plateau 340m above sea level. It is 150m above the highway giving to the same elevation of a walk along a 1.14km service road surrounded by Douglas Fir, Alder and Maples. A shorter steeper access is 800m long. There are steep grades along the way making the round trip about 20 minutes for one with good fitness moving at good speed. The views at the Alpine Cross is well worth the journey and effort.
The Alpine Cross is by no means on the summit of our backyard mountain. It does mark the pass up mountain and offer a fantastic view and picnic tables for visitors and locals to embark on a small adventure, to rest, reflect, dream, and to say their prayers should they wish.
For the Pfennigers and locals who helped in the project, the Alpine Cross is a beacon of safety for weary travelers and locals returning home. I very much appreciate the idea as travel from home over the past 4 years have been tormenting. Every time I leave home for work or to run errands, I miss my girls dearly. Although I often get to visit with friends and family in the Vancouver, this is no comparison to being home with my girls. Travel through the canyon have become increasing unpredictable over recent years due to climate change. Fires, atmospheric rivers, floods, land slides and avalanches may mean not coming home at all if the highway closes as a result of any of these or of accidents. Heading north and making the last turn into Canyon Alpine, where one can see the Alpine Cross, I always let out a sigh of relief that I will embrace my girls within minutes.
The Alpine Cross had been lite for the first time in April 2002. We regret to have turned this light off over the past few years and are looking eagerly to bring back the light economically. When the time comes, we hope to harness the help of solar power.
My family is not Christian but we welcome all the goodness Christianity represent. We look forward to learning and sharing its teachings of wellness along side my Buddhist background and First Nation Values.
Rough Canyon Ranch 