Hikes/Canada/British Columbia/West Kootenays

Difficulty

Moderate

Elevation

368 m

Distance

11.1 km

Duration

3-4h

User Ratings

Be the first to add a review!

Directions to Trailhead

Google Maps

Apple Maps

Great Northern Trail

See Map

Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Route description
Getting there
Route information
Elevation graph
Weather forecast
Reviews

The Great Northern Trail is an 11.1 km out-and-back hiking route that will take you from the city of Nelson along an abandoned rail line to the sandy beaches of 5 Mile Point. Hikers will make their way along a well-maintained and easy-to-navigate trail that is surrounded by beautiful forests and scenic views of the surrounding area. This hiking route is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the landscape surrounding Nelson.

Route Description for Great Northern Trail

The Great Northern Trail is a beautiful hiking route along some easy-going terrain that will take you to a fantastic lookout along the beaches of 5 Mile Point. The trail begins near the Selkirk College campus and heads to the north along an abandoned rail line that runs parallel to Svoboda Road. Along the trail, you will be surrounded by a charming forest setting with intermittent views overlooking Kootenay Lake. As you hike along the edge of West Arm Provincial Park, you will cross over the Hermitage, Bossuet, and Bose creeks, before eventually arriving at 5 Mile Point. Here, you can explore the surrounding area, including the white sandy beaches that offer a perfect viewpoint to watch a sunset over the lake. After experiencing the views, make your way back along the same trail to return to the trailhead.

Getting to the Great Northern Trail Trailhead

To get to the Great Northern Trail from the BC-3A highway in Nelson, turn off the highway onto Elwyn Street and follow it for 1.0 km. Turn left to stay on the road for another 110 m, where you will find the trailhead on the left.

Route Information

When to do:
March-November
Backcountry Campsites:
No
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Out and back