Hikes in East Kootenays
Activities in East Kootenays
Nestled in the southeast corner of British Columbia, the East Kootenays are a vast region that is characterized by rugged mountain ranges, lush river valleys, and beautifully scenic meadows. Dominated by the Rocky Mountain Trench, and flanked by both the Purcell and Rocky mountain ranges, this is a dramatic landscape that offers a wealth of opportunities for exploring the wilderness.
Located within relatively close proximity to a number of popular national, provincial, and regional parks; it is little wonder why the East Kootenays are such a great gateway for exploring this rugged corner of BC. Towns like Fernie, Cranbrook, Invermere, and Kimberley all provide easy access to great accommodations and countless outdoor activities, ensuring that your next trip to the East Kootenays will be an action-packed and memorable experience.
The 10 Greatest Hikes in the East Kootenays
While the terrain of the East Kootenays may seem a bit rough and daunting, the region as a whole offers a great selection of hiking trails that are suitable for all ages and skill levels. Whether you are looking to hike along the banks of the powerful Kootenay River, trek through the rugged mountains of Top of the World Provincial Park, or take a leisurely stroll to one of the relaxing hot springs in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park, you will be sure to find countless trails that will perfectly suit your next adventure. If you aren’t sure where to get started, check out this list of some great East Kootenay hikes that we’ve put together below:
- Lussier Hot Springs: This quick and easy trail isn’t really much of a hike, but it will take you to a relaxing set of hot springs along the Lussier River. Arrive early to beat the crowds and walk the short distance along the path to access the restorative waters of the thermal pools set in a picturesque woodland setting.
- Ram Creek Hot Springs: This adventure to a different hot spring is longer and will require a bit more of an effort in the hiking department; however, the stunning views of nearby mountains makes for the perfect setting when you slip into the thermal pools to relax after a long hike.
- Bee Line Trail: This quick hike in Cranbrook will take you through a charming forest to an awesome vantage point overlooking the town and nearby Rocky Mountains. The easy to navigate nature of the trail and favourable terrain make this great for a family adventure.
- Fish Lake: The hike to Fish Lake is an amazing adventure that will allow you to take in the natural beauty of Top of the World Provincial Park. After hiking through the forest along the Lussier River, you will end up at the quiet shores of Fish Lake that are surrounded by rugged mountain peaks.
- Dewar Creek Hot Springs: This lengthy out-and-back journey will take you through the rugged backcountry of the Purcell Mountains to reach a beautiful setting with hot springs. The trail might be a bit on the overgrown side, but the amazing views and relaxing thermal pools at the end are more than enough of a reward.
- Lake of the Hanging Glacier: Hiking this trail is a technical adventure that will lead you uphill through challenging terrain to reach a stunning glacial lake with gorgeous views of nearby mountain peaks. You will need a 4x4 vehicle to access this route.
- Moe's Canyon Loop: This quick hiking route near Kimberley is a bit overgrown, but the charming forest setting and rocky terrain of the surrounding area make for a fun day out on a network of trails that can be enjoyed by all.
- Mount Stevens and Teepee Mountain: Although this relentless trail east of Wasa will see you work your way uphill through some gruelling terrain, the views of the surrounding alpine landscape will be an ample reward for your efforts. This is another route that is set in the backcountry, making a 4x4 vehicle necessary to reach the trailhead.
- Chief Isadore Trail: Running parallel to the winding banks of the Kootenay River, the Chief Isadore trail is a fantastic hiking route that will provide breathtaking views of the mountains across the valley. This is a one-way adventure, so be sure to plan a pick up ahead of time.
- Chisel Peak: This 13.8 km out-and-back is a rugged climb through some rocky terrain that will take you up to the summit of the peak. Here, you will experience amazingly scenic views overlooking nearby mountains and the Columbia Valley.
When is the Best Time to Hike in East Kootenays?
As with most areas in and around the Canadian Rockies, the best time to hike in the East Kootenays is during the summer months. During the early June to end of September window, most of the higher-elevation trails in the region will be free of snow and the hot conditions will be sure to keep trail conditions safe and dry. This also means that the hiking routes will be busiest at this time, so if you don’t mind taking a chance on the weather, you could always aim for the late spring/early fall. At these times, temperatures will be a bit cooler and weather will be more of a factor; however, the opportunities for viewing wildlife and other natural phenomena like waterfalls will bring a whole other level of excitement to your hiking adventure.
Other Outdoor Activities in the East Kootenays
The East Kootenay region covers a massive area in southeastern BC and as a result there will be no shortage of amazing outdoor activities that you can take part in. Summer here will provide access to countless hiking and mountain bike trails, canoe/kayak excursions, mountaineering treks, and fishing expeditions. If you are more interested in winter sports, you will no doubt be happy with the amazing selection of ski slopes, snowshoeing trails, and ice climbing opportunities on offer here. No matter the season, you will always be able to relax after a long day of exploring in the East Kootenays with a soak in one of the region’s many hot springs.
Frequently Asked Questions About the East Kootenays
What is considered the East Kootenays?
The East Kootenay region in southeastern British Columbia is generally accepted to include the valley of the Kootenay and Columbia Rivers, stretching from Golden to the Canada-United States border. On its east and west sides, the region is flanked by the Rocky and Purcell mountain ranges respectively.
What are the Kootenay Mountains?
The Kootenay Rockies aren’t a single range of mountains in themselves, rather, they are comprised of the Rocky, Purcell, Selkirk, and Monashee mountain ranges.
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Displaying 42 of 42 routes
Route guides for Hiking in East Kootenays
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Lussier Hot Springs Route Guide
The trail to the Lussier Hot Springs is a short 0.3mi hiking route within Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park that will take you down a gently-graded path to reach a series of relaxing thermal pools. Along the trail, you will be surrounded by a beautiful forest landscape that is only amplified when you reach the pools that are nestled along the edge of the Lussier River. This route isn’t so much a hiking trail, as it is a means to access the restorative properties of the hot springs.
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Ram Creek Hot Springs Route Guide
Hiking to the Ram Creek Hot Springs will take you on an 6.9mi out-and-back trail that runs along a forest service road to the Ram Creek Ecological Reserve. Here, hikers will find a series of relaxing thermal pools in which they can submerge themselves and take in the beautiful mountain scenery. The road into the trailhead is a bit treacherous but you will forget all about the rough journey and reconnect with the outdoors once you reach the hot springs.
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Bee Line Trail Route Guide
The Bee Line Trail is a 2.8mi lollipop hiking route in Cranbrook, BC, that will lead you uphill through a scenic stretch of forest to an amazingly scenic lookout. From the viewpoint atop the hill, you will have panoramic views of the landscape surrounding Cranbrook, including the Rocky Mountains to the east and the Purcell Mountains to the West. This is a very well-marked trail that is perfect for a fun family outing.
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Fish Lake Route Guide
The trek to Fish Lake follows a 7.8mi out-and-back hiking route that will allow you to experience the impressive scenery within Top of the World Provincial Park. The route travels south through a dense stretch of forest that runs closely alongside the Lussier River before arriving at the calm waters of Fish Lake. Once there, you will be surrounded by an amazingly serene atmosphere with views of Mount Doolan and the peaks of Mount Dingley.
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Dewar Creek Hot Springs Route Guide
The trek to the Dewar Creek Hot Springs follows a 11.9mi out-and-back hiking route that heads into the backcountry alongside Dewar Creek to eventually arrive at a series of relaxing thermal pools. The trail largely passes through sections of heavy forest and subalpine meadow with some scenic views of the surrounding Purcell Mountains. The route traverses some undulating terrain that is a bit overgrown but fairly easy to navigate, making this a great option for casual and experienced hikers that are looking for a longer hike with a nice reward at the end.
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Lake of the Hanging Glacier Route Guide
The trail leading to the Lake of the Hanging Glacier is a 9.9mi out-and-back hiking route that will take you on an amazing adventure through forests and over scenic river crossings to reach a picturesque glacial lake with surrounding mountains framing the backdrop. More technical than steep, this route is a challenging hike that will reward you with breathtaking scenery and unforgettable memories. It’s best to make the drive in with a 4x4 high clearance vehicle, as the road to the trailhead is fairly rough and rugged.
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Moe’s Canyon Loop Route Guide
Moe’s Canyon Loop is a 2.9mi lollipop hiking route just west of Kimberley that sets out from the Kimberley Nordic Club and traverses some forested and rocky terrain. You can expect to experience an amazing forest setting with wild berry bushes and some rock falls scattered across the area along the route. Although a tiny bit overgrown, this trail is still accessible for the majority of hikers.
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Mount Stevens and Teepee Mountain Route Guide
The trek to Mount Stevens and Teepee Mountain is a steep 8.4mi out-and-back hiking route east of Wasa, BC, that will take you through the scenic alpine terrain to traverse these two majestic summits. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time for this hike and bring lots of water, as the steep incline is relentless, offering little in the way of easy terrain to catch your breath. As the road into the trailhead is very rough, only make the journey with a 4x4 high clearance vehicle.
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Chisel Peak Route Guide
Chisel Peak is a 8.6mi out-and-back hiking route near Invermere, BC, that will take you up to the rocky summit of this prominent mountain. Along the route, you will experience a variety of terrain including service roads, beautiful forests, and exposed rock before arriving at the breathtaking viewpoint at the summit. Once there, you will have spectacular views that stretch across the Columbia Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges.
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Premier Lake to Canuck Lake Loop Route Guide
Hiking the Premier Lake to Canuck Lake Loop is a great experience that takes you along a 4.8mi circuit past four different lakes in Premier Lake Provincial Park. While on the trail, you will make your way through peaceful forest settings and along favourable terrain to incredible viewpoints at several lakes, where you can gaze out across the water to the rugged mountain peaks off in the distance. Be bear-aware awhile out on this hike and bring bear spray to avoid any potentially dangerous encounters.
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Lakit Lookout Route Guide
The Lakit Lookout trail is a 2.1mi out-and-back hiking route near Fort Steele, BC, that will take you through mixed terrain of forest and rocky ridgeline to reach the Lakit Lookout Cabin. Along the exposed ridge, you will have amazing views that stretch out across the peaks and valleys of the surrounding landscape, including the Lakit and Vertical mountains. Make sure to attempt the drive in with a 4x4 high clearance vehicle, as the road leading up to the trailhead is fairly rough and rugged.
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Surveyors Lake Loop Route Guide
The Surveyors Lake Loop is a 1.7mi circuit hiking route in Kikomun Creek Provincial Park that will take you around the edges of the picturesque Surveyors Lake. Hikers will be able to take in the amazing woodland scenery surrounding the lake as they travel along well-maintained trails that loop through the campground and forested edge of the water. This trail is easily accessible and can be utilized by hikers of all skill levels.
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Jimmy Russel to Sunflower Hill Loop Route Guide
The Jimmy Russel to Sunflower Hill Loop is a 2.4mi lollipop hiking route near Kimberley, BC, that will take you up a gentle slope through some light forest cover for scenic views of the surrounding area. The trail is made up of easily traversable terrain, making it accessible for hikers of almost any skill level. Keep an eye out for black bears, and remember to bring bear spray along for this hike, as they are frequently spotted along the trail.
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Jimmy Russel to Hoodoo View Loop Route Guide
The Jimmy Russel to Hoodoo View Loop is an awesome 2.4mi lollipop trail near Kimberley, BC, that takes you into the Kimberley Nature Park and provides some nice views of the nearby Purcell Mountains. The trail is well-maintained and accessible enough for most types of hikers. Make sure to bring your canine friends along for some exercise, as this is a dog-friendly trail; however, you should always keep a close eye on them, as black bears are sometimes spotted in the area.
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Apache Loop Route Guide
The Apache Loop is a 4.0mi lollipop hiking route in Kimberley, BC that passes through the Kimberley Nature Park and provides some nice views of the surrounding area. The trail is forested, but it does feature a few viewpoints, from which you will be able to see across the valley and spot a few mountain tops. Make sure to bring a trail map or GPS, as there are several intersecting routes that will make navigation difficult in some places.
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Round the Mountain Trail Route Guide
The Round the Mountain Trail is a 12.1mi lollipop hiking route that will take you along the lower slopes of North Star Hill on a path that works all the way around the mountain. Along the hike, you will have some scenic views of the surrounding area from several different viewpoints, and pass by the tranquil waters of Dipper Lake. This trail does feature some elevation gain, so bring plenty of water and wear proper hiking footwear for the long trek.
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Musser’s Plateau Loop Route Guide
Musser’s Plateau Loop is a 6.2mi lollipop hiking route in Kimberley, BC, that climbs up the slopes of North Star Hill and provides hikers with a sweeping view that stretches across the valley. The trail winds uphill along the ski runs at a fairly steep slope that features an elevation gain of 1739ft before descending along the rocky expanse of Moe’s Canyon Trail. Make sure to bring sunscreen, as you will be fairly exposed to the sun on this hike.
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Findlay Falls Trail Route Guide
The Findlay Falls Trail is a 0.6mi out-and-back hiking route near Canal Flats that will take you through the forest to reach a viewpoint overlooking the rocky and rugged waterfall. Along the trail, you will experience a peaceful forest setting and hike alongside the rushing waters of Findlay Creek, making for a fun day of sightseeing. Try timing this hike for the spring when water levels are higher and the falls seem to almost burst from the torrent rushing downstream.
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Spirit Trail Loop Route Guide
The Spirit Trail Loop is a 10.1mi hiking circuit in the East Side Columbia Lake Wildlife Management Area, near Fairmont Hot Springs that will take you through beautiful forests and meadows along the eastern shore of the water. Along the hike, you will experience an amazing forest setting, as well as stunning views across the lake with the rugged Purcell Mountains in the backdrop. This hike is a perfect option if you are looking to stroll through nature for a few hours without any real difficulty.
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Wasa Lake Campground Loop Route Guide
The Wasa Lake Campground Loop is a 1.8mi lollipop hiking route in Wasa, BC that will take you up a gentle slope through the forest to experience some scenic views overlooking Wasa Lake. Along this family-friendly trail, hikers will experience a peaceful forest setting and an amazing view from the top of the trail that stretches across the valley with the lake in the forefront. Make sure to grab a brochure near the trailhead for some interesting information on the local plant and animal life.
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Cranbrook Mountain Trail Route Guide
The Cranbrook Mountain Trail is an 5.5mi out-and-back hiking route near Cranbrook, BC, that will take you on a grind up the mountain for some views overlooking the Kootenay River Valley. Although the trail isn’t very technical or difficult, it does feature 2513ft of elevation gain that is pretty near constant until you reach the summit. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to stay fuelled up while out on this tough uphill climb.
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Idlewild Lake Loop Route Guide
The Idlewild Lake Loop is a 0.7mi lollipop hiking route in Cranbrook, BC that skirts around the edges of this charming woodland lake and provides the opportunity to spot wildlife. This is a family-friendly trail that features very little changes in elevation and is made up of paved pathways, making it ideal for hikers of every skill level. Make sure to arrive early for this hike, as it is a popular nature walk, and parking spaces can become limited.
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Sylvan Trail Loop Route Guide
The Sylvan Trail Loop is a 3.0mi lollipop hiking route in Cranbrook, BC, that will allow you to explore the beautiful forests to the east of the city before arriving at the picturesque shores of Sylvan Lake. Once there, hikers will enjoy amazingly scenic views of the meadows surrounding the lake that are framed by thick forests and rugged mountain peaks in the backdrop. Make sure to arrive early or at off-peak times, as parking for this hike can be limited at popular times.
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Chewbacca Rocka to Eager Hills Lookout Route Guide
The Chewbacca Rocka to Eager Hills Lookout is a fantastic hiking circuit in Cranbrook, BC, that will take you through the Cranbrook Community Forest Recreation Site to an amazing viewpoint overlooking the Kootenay River Valley. The trail consists of well-maintained pathways that can be quite steep in some sections, making it a great trek for casual and experienced hikers alike. From the rocky lookout, you will be able to spot Mount Fisher and The Steeples to the east.
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Eager Hill via Waterpark Trail Route Guide
The Eager Hill via Waterpark Trail is a scenic lollipop hiking route that winds 2.1mi through the Cranbrook Community Forest Recreation Site to reach a lovely vantage point with spectacular views. Hikers utilizing this trail will experience a peaceful forest setting, as well as a sightline that stretches across the Kootenay River Valley toward the rugged expanse of the Canadian Rockies. Although short and fairly easy, some steep sections of trail along this may restrict mobility for some hikers.
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Moyie Falls Route Guide
Making the trek to Moyie Falls will see hikers utilize a 1.4mi out-and-back hiking route near Cranbrook, BC, that follows closely alongside the rushing waters of the Moyie River until you reach the viewpoint overlooking the falls. The trail is relatively flat and short, making it accessible for hikers of almost any skill level. Timing this hike for the early spring will allow you to experience the full glory of the gushing waterfall, while doing it in the winter will allow you to view the cascading water after it has been frozen in place, encasing the massive rock formation of the falls with a sheet of ice.
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Silver Springs Trail Route Guide
The Silver Springs trail is a 1.1mi out-and-back hiking route near Elko, BC, that will take you through the forest to the pristine waters of Silver Spring Lake. Here, hikers can explore the area around the lake or simply relax by the water and watch adventurous cliff jumpers vault themselves into the water. Hikers looking to extend their hike can continue along the trail to the south to visit two smaller lakes nestled further into the canyon.
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Silver Creek Cliffs Route Guide
The trek to the Silver Creek Cliffs is an 5.5mi out-and-back hiking route that will take you up to the edge of the cliffs with amazing views looking out over the Silver Spring Lakes and Mount Broadwood in the backdrop. The trail has a moderate incline, but the terrain is relatively easy to traverse, making this a great family hike with spectacular views. Ensure to wear proper hiking footwear, as there are some loose gravel/rocks on the trail that can be tough on the ankles.
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Whiteswan North Shore Trail Loop Route Guide
The Whiteswan North Shore Trail Loop is a long but amazingly scenic hiking circuit that will allow you to experience the natural beauty of Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park by hiking along the shoreline of the lake. This 12.4mi loop will take you from the edge of Alice Lake on a route to the northeast that passes through the forest and features a sightline across the lake with the amazing mountainous scenery in the backdrop. Hikers should keep in mind that while dogs are allowed in the park, they are not allowed in the beach areas around the lake.
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Cave Creek Campground via North Shore Trail Route Guide
The Cave Creek Campground via North Shore Trail is a 1.8mi point-to-point hiking route that will take you from the Home Basin Campground at the northern edge of Whiteswan Lake to the Cave Creek Campground on its western shore. Along the route you will experience beautiful views across the blue water of the lake, as you meander down this easy to traverse trail. Although dogs are welcome in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park, they are not permitted in any beach areas, so take that into account when planning your trip.
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Perry Creek Trail Route Guide
The Perry Creek Trail is a 1.5mi out-and-back hiking route near Cranbrook, BC, that will take you through the forest to visit a vantage point overlooking a waterfall. Along the trail, you will experience a peaceful forest atmosphere as you hike alongside the creek towards the powerful rushing water of the falls. Timing your hike for the spring will make the falls even more impressive with the higher water levels; however, the trail can sometimes become washed out, making travel difficult.
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Richmond Lake Trail Route Guide
The Richmond Lake Trail is a 1.9mi out-and-back hiking route near Cranbrook, BC, that will take you through a beautiful stretch of forest and over a small ridge to reach the shores of a picturesque woodland lake. Once at the lake, you will be surrounded by rugged peaks that can be explored to gain an impressive view over the surrounding area. This hike is a great family-friendly option to experience some amazing views and varied terrain.
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Ptarmigan Lake Trail Route Guide
The Ptarmigan Lake Trail is an 7.1mi out-and-back hiking route near Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park that climbs steeply uphill to arrive at the pristine shores of a small alpine lake. Along the trail, you will pass through meadows and forests, before arriving at the water’s edge with a dramatic backdrop of vertical mountain cliffs. This hike offers spectacular views for the moderate amount of effort required to complete it.
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Mount Sabine Lookout Trail Route Guide
The Mount Sabine Lookout Trail is a 3.1mi out-and-back hiking route in Canal Flats, BC, that takes you along the forested southern slope of Mount Sabine to reach a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Kootenay River Valley. From there, you will have a great sightline over the town of Canal Flats, Columbia Lake, and the Purcell Mountains off in the distance. This trail offers quick access to some spectacular views, without the grind of a more difficult hiking route.
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Columbia Lake Lookout Route Guide
The Columbia Lake Lookout is a 8.5mi point-to-point hiking route northwest of Canal Flats, BC, that will lead you through a variety of terrain with nice views overlooking Columbia Lake and the Kootenay River Valley. This intermediate-length trail features easy-to-navigate terrain through forested and cleared areas with only small changes in elevation, making this route suitable for hikers of all skill levels. As this is a point-to-point trail, you will need to either arrange a pick up at the end of your journey or hike along the road for about 1.9mi to reach the trailhead.
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Baldy Lake Trail Route Guide
The Baldy Lake Trail is a 6.1mi out-and-back hiking route in British Columbia near the Canada-United States border that will take you uphill through the forest to the tranquil waters of a small subalpine lake. Along the route, you will hike through picturesque meadows, serene forests, and exposed trails with mountain views before you arrive at the lake. As with most backcountry hikes in BC, make sure to bring bear spray and create noise while out on the trail in order to avoid any potentially dangerous encounters with bears or mountain lions.
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Moyie Lake Area Trail Route Guide
The Moyie Lake Area trail is a 1.4mi lollipop hiking route south of Cranbrook that takes you on a winding path through the forest with some nice views overlooking Moyie Lake from the trailhead. Featuring easy-to-navigate trails and fairly flat terrain, this route is perfectly suited for hikers of all skill levels. Combine this hike with an overnight stay in the Moyie Lake Campground and you have a recipe for a great weekend of adventuring in the outdoors.
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Cooper Lake Trail Route Guide
The Cooper Lake Trail is a 2.5mi out-and-back hiking route near Cranbrook, BC, that follows closely along an old logging flume from the 1920s to reach the heavily wooded shores of Cooper Lake. Along the trail, you will experience an amazing forest atmosphere as you make your way through the dense tree cover to the tranquil shores of the lake. This trail is great for those who love meandering through the forest, as well as anyone with an interest in the logging history of the area.
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Pyramid Creek Loop Route Guide
The Pyramid Creek Loop is a challenging 12.2mi lollipop hiking route west of Kimberley, BC, that will take you into the subalpine terrain for some spectacular views of the surrounding mountain peaks. From the top of the ridge, you will have a sightline that reaches across the valley and town of Kimberley below. With a large amount of elevation gain and technical terrain, this route is best left for more experienced hikers.
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Marysville Falls Route Guide
Marysville Falls is a short 0.3mi out-and-back hiking route in Marysville, BC that offers a pleasant stroll along a forested creek that eventually brings you to the picturesque sight of a cascading waterfall. With a short overall distance and flat terrain, this trail is suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Make sure to bring microspikes and/or hiking poles in the shoulder seasons as the trail can become very icy.
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Mount Wapiti Route Guide
The Mount Wapiti Trail is a challenging 6.0mi out-and-back hiking route in Elkford, BC that will take you up to the summit of the most visible peak from the town. Along the trail, you will climb uphill along the ski hill before working your way onto the ridge and pushing up the rocky summit for some breathtaking views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. There are two distinct peaks on Mount Wapiti; however, the taller north peak is the true summit and will allow you to get the best views possible of the surrounding landscape.
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Saddleback Ridge Trail Route Guide
The Saddleback Ridge Trail is a 9.6mi out-and-back hiking route in Premier Lake Provincial Park that will take hikers on a steep uphill climb through the forest to reach the ridge. From the top of the trail, you will experience some breathtaking views that stretch out across the valley and look down on the blue waters of Premier Lake below. Make sure to bring bear spray, travel in groups, and make lots of noise along the trail, as bears are frequently spotted in the area.
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