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    east kootenays

    Hikes in East Kootenays

    Region in British Columbia, Canada

    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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    Best Hikes in East Kootenays

    Showing 1 to 20 of 51
      Open details for Lussier Hot Springs

      Lussier Hot Springs

      Very Easy
      0.5 km
      16 m
      0.5h

      The trail to the Lussier Hot Springs is a short 0.5 km 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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      Open details for Ram Creek Hot Springs

      Ram Creek Hot Springs

      Moderate
      11.1 km
      350 m
      3-4h

      Hiking to the Ram Creek Hot Springs will take you on an 11.1 km 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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      Open details for Bee Line Trail

      Bee Line Trail

      Moderate
      4.5 km
      273 m
      1.5-2h

      The Bee Line Trail is a 4.5 km 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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      Open details for Fish Lake

      Fish Lake

      Moderate
      12.6 km
      495 m
      3.5-5h

      The trek to Fish Lake follows a 12.6 km 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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      Open details for Dewar Creek Hot Springs

      Dewar Creek Hot Springs

      Moderate
      19.2 km
      572 m
      5-7h

      The trek to the Dewar Creek Hot Springs follows a 19.2 km 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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      Open details for Lake of the Hanging Glacier

      Lake of the Hanging Glacier

      Hard
      15.9 km
      947 m
      5.5-7.5h

      The trail leading to the Lake of the Hanging Glacier is a 15.9 km 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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      Open details for Moe’s Canyon Loop

      Moe’s Canyon Loop

      Moderate
      4.7 km
      165 m
      1.5-2h

      Moe’s Canyon Loop is a 4.7 km 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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      Open details for Mount Stevens and Teepee Mountain

      Mount Stevens and Teepee Mountain

      Hard
      13.5 km
      1,594 m
      7-9.5h

      The trek to Mount Stevens and Teepee Mountain is a steep 13.5 km 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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      Open details for Chief Isadore Trail

      Chief Isadore Trail

      Easy
      10.3 km
      146 m
      2-3h

      The Chief Isadore Trail is a 10.3 km point-to-point hiking route that will take you from Ha Ha Creek Road to the town of Wardner along a scenic route that runs parallel to the Kootenay River. Hivers along the trail will experience some amazing views across the valley, including the imposing Bull Mountain and The Steeples to the northeast. This route guide is for a one-way trip only, so hikers will need to either hike the return 10.3 km to their vehicle or arrange a pickup in the town of Warden.

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      Open details for Chisel Peak

      Chisel Peak

      Hard
      13.8 km
      1,378 m
      6-8.5h

      Chisel Peak is a 13.8 km 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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      Open details for Mary’s Lunch Room

      Mary’s Lunch Room

      Moderate
      11.4 km
      350 m
      3-4h

      The Mary’s Lunch Room trail is an 11.4 km hiking circuit just outside of Kimberley, BC, that winds through the dense forests of the Kimberley Nature Park to arrive at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Rocky Mountains. Along the way, hikers can expect well-maintained trails, a tranquil forest setting, and amazing views that sweep across the valley. Remember to bring bear spray and make plenty of noise along the trail, as black bears are frequently spotted in the area.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      8.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
      Open details for Premier Lake to Canuck Lake Loop

      Premier Lake to Canuck Lake Loop

      Moderate
      7.7 km
      263 m
      2-3h

      Hiking the Premier Lake to Canuck Lake Loop is a great experience that takes you along a 7.7 km 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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      Open details for Lakit Lookout

      Lakit Lookout

      Moderate
      3.4 km
      363 m
      1.5-2h

      The Lakit Lookout trail is a 3.4 km 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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      Open details for Surveyors Lake Loop

      Surveyors Lake Loop

      Very Easy
      2.7 km
      53 m
      0.5-1h

      The Surveyors Lake Loop is a 2.7 km 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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      Open details for Jimmy Russel to Sunflower Hill Loop

      Jimmy Russel to Sunflower Hill Loop

      Easy
      3.9 km
      140 m
      1-1.5h

      The Jimmy Russel to Sunflower Hill Loop is a 3.9 km 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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      Open details for Jimmy Russel to Hoodoo View Loop

      Jimmy Russel to Hoodoo View Loop

      Easy
      3.9 km
      179 m
      1-1.5h

      The Jimmy Russel to Hoodoo View Loop is an awesome 3.9 km 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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      Open details for Lois Creek Trail

      Lois Creek Trail

      Moderate
      12.7 km
      406 m
      3.5-4.5h

      The Lois Creek Trail is a 12.7 km hiking circuit on the northeastern edge of Kimberley, BC, that takes you through a scenic forest that runs along the creek. This trail is a great multi-use route that is popular with various outdoor sports enthusiasts, including hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners, and snowshoers. Make sure to bring a GPS for your hike, as there are several intersecting trails that can make navigation a bit tricky.

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      Open details for Apache Loop

      Apache Loop

      Moderate
      6.4 km
      177 m
      1.5-2.5h

      The Apache Loop is a 6.4 km 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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      Open details for Round the Mountain Trail

      Round the Mountain Trail

      Moderate
      19.5 km
      713 m
      5.5-7.5h

      The Round the Mountain Trail is a 19.5 km 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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      Open details for Musser’s Plateau Loop

      Musser’s Plateau Loop

      Moderate
      10.0 km
      530 m
      3-4.5h

      Musser’s Plateau Loop is a 10.0 km 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 530 m 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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