The Hope Lookout is a steep hiking trail with the reward of an amazing view. If you have the extra time to spend in this area, it is well worth the hike.

The uphill route travels up the lower slopes of Mount Hope to a viewpoint with panoramas over the small town below as well as the surrounding mountains. On the way, the trail travels through a damp and mossy forest with some lovely old trees.

The round trip is 4.5km with 450m elevation gain - I have rated it '3' due to the shorter length but be sure not to take the climb lightly! The steepest sections have rocks for steps and some areas are very narrow. There are some regular steps too.

The Hope Lookout Trail is located just off the Old Hope Princeton Way, with easy access from Highway 1, 3 and 5. Allow 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your hiking speed. During the wetter months, the trail can be quite slippery due to leaves.