Why You Need to Go Hiking in Revelstoke, British Columbia

Revelstoke, British Columbia, isn’t just for thrill-seekers looking to hit the slopes or tear up mountain bike trails. This quaintl mountain town is a hiker’s haven, boasting some of the best trails in Western Canada. Revelstoke’s trails lead to endless bounties from stunning summit views, vibrant wildflower meadows, and serene alpine lakes. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just starting out, Revelstoke has a hike for you. Here we’ll share tips for a successful adventure and the five must-do hikes that showcase the majestic beauty of this untapped destination.

Where to Hike in Revelstoke

What makes hiking in Revelstoke special is its proximity to two national parks. Mount Revelstoke National Park is just minutes from Downtown Revelstoke, while Glacier National Park is located about a 45-minute drive away. Both parks feature a variety of trails with well-maintained paths, making them the perfect starting points for your hiking adventure.

Know Before You Go

Before you set out, here are few essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

• National Park Pass: A park pass is required to hike in both Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Park. You can purchase Parks Pass from Parks Canada ahead of time or at the visitor centers. 
• Group Requirements: In Glacier National Park, certain trails like Balu Pass require groups of four people due to wildlife safety regulations. Please plan accordingly. 
• Trail Conditions: Always check trail conditions ahead of time to be aware of any closures or advisories. some text
  • Glacier National Park Trail Conditions 
  • Mount Revelstoke National Park Trail Conditions

Bear Safety and Trail Etiquette: Prioritize your safety and respect the environment. Carry bear spray and stay alert to stay safe in bear country. Stick to designated trails to protect habitats and reduce wildlife encounters. Pack out all trash to keep the trails clean, and respect other hikers and wildlife by maintaining a safe distance.

Essential Packing List

To ensure you’re well-prepared for your hike, here’s a packing list of essential items:

• Trail Map: Ensure you have a trail map downloaded on your device or a physical copy.
• Water: Bring a full water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your hike.
• Bear & Bug Spray: Carry bear spray and insect repellent to protect yourself from wildlife and insects.
• Sun Protection: Pack sunscreen and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun’s rays.
• First Aid Kit: Have a first aid kit on hand for any minor injuries or emergencies.
• Light Source: Carry a headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries in case your hike extends into the evening.

Additional Layers: Bring extra layers of clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions.

Top 5 Easy to Moderate Hikes

1. Skunk Cabbage Trail (Mountain Revelstoke National Park)
   0.6 km (0.37mi) | 10 m | 10min | Out and Back | Easy
   This easy, family-friendly trail takes you through a lush wetland area filled with vibrant skunk cabbage plants. Elevated boardwalks provide a close-up view of the unique ecosystem, and interpretive signs along the way offer insights into the flora and fauna of the area.
   
   

2. Bear Creek Falls (Glacier National Park)
   1.3km (0.80mi) | 48 m | 24min | Out and Back | Easy
   A short and easy trail that takes you to the stunning Bear Creek Falls. The powerful waterfall and the surrounding lush forest provide a serene and picturesque setting.

3. ‍Meeting of the Waters (Glacier National Park)
   1.3 km (0.81 miles) | 53 m  | 24min | Out and Back | Easy
   This easy trail leads to the confluence of the Asulkan and Illecillewaet Rivers. The beautiful river scenery and the interpretive signs along the path make it an enjoyable and educational hike.

4. ‍Nels Nelson (Mount Revelstoke National Park)
   1.1 km (0.68 miles) | 81 m | 29min | Out and Back | Easy‍
   A moderate hike that takes you through lush forests to the historic Nels Nelson ski jump. Along the way, enjoy the scenic views of the town and Columbia River and learn about the area’s skiing history.
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5. Upper Summit Trail (Mount Revelstoke National Park)
   3.1 km (1.93 miles) | 104 m | 54 min | Out and Back | Easy
   This short and easy trail offers breathtaking summit views of the Columbia Mountains and the town of Revelstoke. It’s perfect for families and those looking for a quick hike with rewarding vistas and wildflowers.

Top 5 Moderate to Hard Hikes in Revelstoke

1. Hermit Trail (Glacier National Park)
   5.8 km (3.60 miles) | 813 m  | 5 hours | Out and Back | Moderate to Hard
   A challenging hike that rewards you with spectacular alpine views. The steep trail climbs quickly, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. It’s a tough but incredibly rewarding hike.

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2. Great Glacier Trail (Glacier National Park)
   8 km (4.97 miles) | 423 m | 4 hours | Out and Back | Moderate to Hard
   A moderate to hard hike that leads to the Great Glacier. The trail offers stunning views of the glacier and the surrounding mountains, with a mix of forested paths and open ridges. It’s a must-do for those looking to experience the grandeur of Glacier National Park.

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3. Eva & Miller Lake (Mount Revelstoke National Park)
   16 km (9.4 miles) | 594 m | 5 hours | Out and Back | Moderate
   This moderate hike takes you to two beautiful alpine lakes. The trail winds through wildflower meadows and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The peaceful lakes are perfect for a refreshing break.

4. Balu Pass (Glacier National Park)
   16 km (6.2 miles) | 846 m  | 5 hours | Out and Back | Moderate
   A moderate hike leading to the stunning Jade Lake. The trail offers diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open ridges, and the turquoise waters of Jade Lake provide a perfect spot for relaxation.
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5.  Perley Rock (Glacier National Park)
   13 km (8.1 miles) | 1,249 m  | 7 hours | Out and Back | Hard 
   This strenuous hike takes you to the stunning Perley Rock, offering breathtaking views of glaciers and rugged peaks. The trail is steep and demanding, but the incredible scenery at the top makes it worthwhile.

Secure Your Basecamp in Revelstoke

Be sure to secure accommodations early as Revelstoke can be quite busy throughout the hiking season (June-October). Our properties are the ultimate launchpad for your Revelstoke Adventures. Basecamp Suites Revelstoke and Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke offer fully equipped kitchens for seamless meal prep, spacious living areas for detailed planning, and ultra-comfortable sleeping arrangements with private bedrooms. If you’re looking for a tranquil environment or pet friendly accommodation, we recommend our Resorts property overlooking the Columbia River. If you prefer to be centrally located and within walking distance of downtown, check out our Suites property is within walking distance to all the action. For the budget-concious traveller, watch out for Northwinds Revelstoke opening this fall (include link).

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Revelstoke, British Columbia, is a hiker’s dream destination with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks, offering stunning summit views, wildflower meadows, and serene alpine lakes. Be sure to secure your stay at Basecamp Resorts or Basecamp Suites Revelstoke to ensure a comfortable base for all of your adventures. Pack your gear and get ready to explore the breathtaking beauty of Revelstoke’s trails. Your unforgettable hiking adventures await!

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