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    Hikes/Canada/British Columbia/West Kootenays

    Brilliant Overlook Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    2-3h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    6.0 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    431 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead
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    The hike to Brilliant Overlook is a 6.0 km out-and-back trail in Castlegar, BC, that works through the forest and climbs uphill to a spectacular viewpoint with views over the city and the confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay rivers. Along the trail, hikers will experience a beautiful forest setting, as well as some more exposed sections of rocky terrain on the way to the lookout. Make sure to travel in groups, make lots of noise, and bring bear spray, as cougars are sometimes seen in the area.

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    Route Description for Brilliant Overlook Hike

    Hiking up to Brilliant Overlook will allow you to experience one of the most picturesque views in the entire area around Castlegar. The trail sets out near the Castlegar Golf Course and passes through a stretch of forest surrounding a power substation before arriving at a junction in the trail. The path to the left leads to McPhee Falls and the right will take you up to Brilliant Overlook. Follow the trail to the right to briefly climb over some rocky terrain before entering back into the dense forest cover.

    Here, the trail will wind through the forest to the northeast and eventually turn south to bring you to the viewpoint. Once you arrive at Brilliant Overlook, you will be greeted by a breathtaking view across the valley that includes the city of Castlegar, the confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay rivers, and the surrounding Selkirk Mountains. After taking in the amazing scenery, head back down the trail to return to your vehicle.

    Getting to the Brilliant Overlook Hike Trailhead

    To access the Brilliant Overlook trailhead from Highway BC-3 in Castlegar, exit onto Columbia Road and follow it for 2.4 km to the north. Turn right on Aaron Road and continue for 600 m, where you will make a right turn onto McPhee Creek Road. In 4.0 km, you will reach the trailhead.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      Year-Round

    • Backcountry Campsites

      No

    • Pets allowed

      Yes

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Brilliant Overlook Hike Elevation Graph

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