*note that while government websites suggest the Vaseux Protected Area has hiking options, it is surrounded by private property and Osoyoos Indian Band Lands making access difficult*
The Vaseux Protected Area has a number of features that would have interest for the exploring hiker. Gallagher’s Bluff stands out as one of the prominent bluffs in the area (along with McIntyre Bluff). There is also the Vaseux Creek Canyon with its stunning vertical walls. The protected area is of course a great spot to view California Bighorn Sheep.
Access:
A government document states that access to the Vaseux Protected Area “Site 1 is accessed from a gravel road and site 2 from the Okanagan Falls Service Road.” This does not provide enough detail and there is no indication on related maps of where these access points lie. One potential option is to hike up from Gallagher Lake.
The metal structure may be (or may have been) for calibrating radar at Penticton airport. It’s a known fixed point to bounce a signal off of. I’ve seen a couple whilst hiking (Coquitlam and Pemberton areas). Also, I had figured Gallagher Lake for access after seeing your post on peakbagger and trying to figure a viable route but private property issues might be an issue?
I think you’re right about the metal structure being used to bounce radio signals off of. Someone else mentioned to me that it is for the power substation in the valley below and this is the only way considering the steep cliffs all around.
It does look like you can hike up from Gallagher Lake but I think it requires crossing Osoyoos Indian Band lands.