Hikes in Invermere
Located in the heart of the Columbia Valley in southwestern British Columbia, Invermere and the surrounding district is a beautifully scenic area that seems to be tailor made for exploring the outdoors. Nestled between the Purcell and Rocky Mountains, Invermere is largely shielded from Arctic weather patterns, creating a climate that is warm in the summer and cool in the winter. This means that, no matter the season, you will always find conditions favourable for whatever activity you set out to accomplish.
A popular destination for tourists and holiday home owners from both Alberta and British Columbia, Invermere offers a wide range of activities that can be sought out year-round. From hiking, biking, and boating on the waters of Windermere Lake in the summer, to skiing and skating on the world’s longest ice skating trail; there will always be plenty of memories to create on a trip to Invermere. The town’s central location between the cities of Golden and Cranbrook makes it easily accessible and the ideal place from which you can explore the amazing terrain that can be found along the Rocky Mountain Trench.
The Most Stunning Hikes in Invermere
Regardless of your comfort level or experience with exploring the outdoors, Invermere and the surrounding area offers a wealth of hiking routes that range from a quick stroll in the park to an intense summit experience. Located just to the west of the city in the middle of the Purcell Mountains, the Panorama Mountain Resort provides a great opportunity for casual and experienced hikers to get out in the mountains while remaining in close proximity to important amenities. Back in town, you will have plenty of options for exploring the lush landscapes of the Columbia River Valley and Windermere Lake, with the added possibility of exploring the rugged Rockies just east of town. If you aren’t sure where to start, we’ve put together this list of some of our favourite hiking routes that can be found in and around the beautiful town of Invermere:
- Deja Vu/Old Coach Trail Loop: This 15.4 km trail is a conglomeration of several different routes along the Columbia River Escarpment. While out on the trail, you will have stunning views of the nearby Purcell Mountains, as well as the winding Columbia River.
- Panorama Mountain Village Trail: Hiking this route is a pleasant experience in the Purcell Mountains due to its close proximity to the amenities of the Panorama Mountain Resort. You will need to either hike up the mountain or take the chair lift to reach the trailhead; however, the beautiful subalpine views will be well worth it.
- Hoodoo Trail: This short hiking route just south of Invermere will take you to a scenic lookout atop a cliff, where you will enjoy some amazing views of the Columbia River and surrounding mountain peaks. This is a great hike for casual/beginner hikers that enjoy scenic views for little effort.
- Jumbo Pass Trail: Hiking the Jumbo Pass Trail is a fun adventure that will take you up to a charming lakeside cabin set in the alpine. A high clearance vehicle will be needed to navigate the rough road into the trailhead.
- Apple Pie Loop: This moderate-length trail is part of a strong network of hiking pathways that will see you climb up to a beautiful lookout over Windermere Lake. While you might need a GPS for navigation, the amazing backdrop of mountainous terrain makes this a worthwhile trek.
- Mount Nelson Trail: Trekking along this rough and rugged trail is recommended for experienced hikers only, due to the challenging nature of the terrain. That being said, the beautiful landscape of the Purcell Mountains and the breathtaking panoramic views from the top of the trail make this a must-do hike if you are experienced enough.
- Lower Bugaboo Falls: A short adventure just to the northwest of Invermere, the Lower Bugaboo Falls will take hikers to the location of a scenic waterfall. Parking here is fairly limited, so make sure to arrive early to secure a spot and beat the crowds.
- Conrad Kain Hut Trail: This out-and-back journey is a wonderful route that will take you uphill along some rugged terrain to reach a location with some truly awe-inspiring views of nearby peaks. Pair this one with a fun overnight stay at the hut or nearby campground.
- Mount Aeneas: Taking you uphill through Pedley Pass, this rocky and technical route will require you to bring helmets and poles to safely traverse the scree slopes along the trail. Your effort will absolutely be rewarded, as you will receive breathtaking views over nearby mountains. A 4x4 vehicle is needed for this adventure.
- Mount Swansea Double Peak Loop: A challenging and popular hiking route in the Invermere area, this trail will see you climb uphill for a commanding view overlooking Invermere and the surrounding Columbia Valley. This route features some rugged terrain and will require sturdy hiking footwear.
When is the Best Time to Hike in Invermere?
As with most mountain towns, the best time to hike in and around Invermere is during the summer, when the snow has melted, and the trail conditions are dry enough to allow you to fully explore the breathtaking landscapes that are on offer here. Where Invermere differs slightly from other areas further east is in the fact that it is sheltered from Arctic weather patterns, meaning the climate here is a bit more on the mild side. As such, spring will arrive earlier in Invermere than it will in other parts of the Rockies, slightly extending the window of favourable hiking weather to allow outdoor enthusiasts the chance to maximize their time spent exploring the wild.
Other Outdoor Activities in Invermere
With an abundance of rivers, mountains, lakes, and valleys, there is no real limit on the kind of activities that can be sought out on a trip to Invermere. Winter in the region will likely see you visiting the Panorama Mountain Resort or Fairmont Hot Springs Ski Area to spend some time on the slopes. If downhill winter sports aren’t your thing, you can also test out your cross country skills or try skating the world’s longest ice skating trail - The Lake Windermere Whiteway. During the summer, activities range from hiking and cycling, to water sports on the rivers and lakes that can be found in the valley. With an abundance of outdoor recreation areas and amazing terrain, you certainly won’t be able to fit all the excitement of Invermere into one short trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invermere
How far is Invermere from Calgary?
While Invermere is only located 150.0 km from Calgary, the Rocky Mountains present a bit of an obstacle that extends the road distance between these two urban areas to 276.0 km. This makes for a roughly three hour drive.
What valley is Invermere in?
Invermere can be found within the Columbia Valley, the name given to a section of the Rocky Mountain Trench along the Columbia River in between Golden and Canal Flats.
What is the elevation of Invermere, BC?
Nestled within the Columbia Valley between the Rocky and Purcell mountains, the town of Invermere sits at a height of 659 m above sea level.
Best Hikes in Invermere
Valley View Trail
The Valley View Trail is a 4.7 km hiking route in Fairmont Hot Springs near Invermere that will take you uphill along a forested trail to a lookout with some nice views of the Columbia Valley. With decently easy terrain and a small gain in elevation, hikers of most skill levels can enjoy this route. Alternatively, hikers can walk up the old road to reach a higher viewpoint nearer to the ski slopes.
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Taynton Trail
The Taynton Trail is a 13.7 km hiking route at the Panorama Mountain Resort near Invermere that climbs up the mountain along several ski slopes to provide hikers with scenic views of the valley. Although much of the hike follows specific trails, portions of this one are off-trail and require a GPS or basic route-finding abilities to stay on the correct route. Make sure to end this hike at one of the lodges at the resort for some much deserved refreshments after this tough hike.
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Hunter’s Way
Hunter’s Way is an 11.6 km out-and-back hiking route near Invermere that will take you along a wide forest service road to access some nice views overlooking the Columbia Valley. While the trail isn’t overly difficult, it does pack a moderate amount of elevation gain, so be prepared for an uphill grind. Pack microspikes for the shoulder seasons as the trail can become fairly slippery due to ice.
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Montezuma’s Revenge
Montezuma’s Revenge is a 2.9 km lollipop hiking route near Invermere, BC, that loops through the tree cover and features a peaceful forest atmosphere. While you won’t have any real sightlines besides those within the forest, you can use the time to disconnect from the outside world and appreciate the beauty of the scenic woodland landscape. Remember to bring a trail map or GPS as the route is poorly marked in some areas.
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Mount Bruce
Mount Bruce is a 6.4 km out-and-back hiking route near Invermere, BC, that will take you through a nice variety of terrain to reach several viewpoints at the summit. Along the hike, you will pass through beautiful stretches of new-growth forest, charming meadows, and over rocky shale to be greeted by views over the Columbia Valley, Lake Windermere, and the Panorama Mountain Resort. Accessing the trailhead can be difficult and is best attempted with a 4x4 high clearance vehicle.
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Hale Hut via Placer Trail
Hale Hut via the Placer Trail is a 6.8 km out-and-back hiking route at the Panorama Mountain Resort near Invermere that will take you uphill through a forested valley to experience scenic views of the beautiful subalpine terrain. The route sets out from the resort and passes by the Greywolf Golf Course before veering towards and following closely alongside Toby Creek as it winds through the valley. This well-maintained and easy-to-navigate trail is also used as a cross-country ski trail in the winter, allowing you to enjoy these incredible views year-round.
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Brewer Lake
Brewer Lake is a 10.6 km lollipop hiking route near Invermere, BC, that will take hikers through some beautiful subalpine terrain on the way to the peaceful lake. Along the trail, you will have awesome views of the nearby mountain peaks, and if you time your hike for autumn, you will be able to take in the beauty of the golden larches in the area. Make sure to use a 4x4 high clearance vehicle for the rugged drive to the trailhead.
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Mount Brewer
The Mount Brewer trail is a 12.9 km out-and-back hiking route that will take hikers through a small valley alongside the flowing waters of Brewer Creek before turning to the north on a course towards the summit of the mountain. From the viewpoint at the summit, you will have amazing views that stretch across the rugged landscape and provide a sightline over countless peaks within the Purcell Range. It is recommended to make the drive into the trailhead with a 4x4 high clearance vehicle due to the rugged nature of the roads.