Hikes in West Kootenays
Activities in West Kootenays
The best hikes in the West Kootenays take you to some pretty epic scenery, and this pretty region of the B.C. interior is sure to grow in popularity in the coming years. The West Kootenays include places like Nelson, Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park and more great places to hike.
What’s New in 2027
- Idaho Peak’s trailhead road is still washed out. A 2020 washout closed the forest-service road to the Idaho Peak trailhead, and as of 2026 it remains impassable to vehicles with no set reopening date, as the province is still weighing whether to repair, replace or decommission it. The famous “quick” lookout walk now means a much longer hike or bike from the road closure, roughly the 7 km mark, or an alternate approach, so check current access before you build a day around it.
- This is grizzly, black bear and cougar country, so hike prepared. The West Kootenays are rich in wildlife, including grizzlies, often seen across Whitewater Canyon and up around Idaho Peak, black bears and cougars. Carry bear spray where you can reach it, make noise on the trail, hike in a group where you can, and keep food and scented items secured.
- Time it for the short alpine season, and check the trailhead roads. The high routes, Macbeth Icefield, Mount Loki, Jumbo Pass and the Valhalla peaks, are typically snow-free only from mid-July to late September. Many trailheads sit at the end of rough, unpaved forest-service roads that can wash out or stay snowbound into summer, so a higher-clearance vehicle helps, and it’s worth checking road conditions before you drive out.
The Best Hikes in the West Kootenays
The top hikes in the West Kootenays offer great variety, from remote backcountry wilderness to family-friendly routes right from Nelson. The stunning country in the West Kootenays provides a backdrop of forest, flower filled meadows, and stunning peaks, not to mention a large amount of wildlife (particularly bears!)
- Macbeth Glacier/Icefield (13.9 km, 1,343 m, 7-9h): This is the best challenging hike in the West Kootenays. Hike through an enormous variety of terrains until you reach the epic Macbeth Glacier towering above you. Rarely visited by tourists, this is as beautiful a hike as you will find in the West Kootenays.
- Mount Loki (11.1 km, 1,166 m, 6.5-8h): Mount Loki is another exceptional hike in the West Kootenays. Mount Loki is best attempted in the height of summer, when it is snow-free. From the summit it feels like you are on top of the world, with the West Kootenays stretching out below you.
- Jumbo Pass (12.0 km, 942 m, 5-7h): The hike to Jumbo Pass is stunning. This is a pretty famous hike thanks to Patagonia’s Jumbo Valley documentary and the indigenous history of the Northern Purcell Range. Here is one of the last remaining wild mountain ranges in B.C. This hike takes you through a stunning valley full of glaciers, meadows and mountain peaks. It is an extremely beautiful place for a hike.
- Whitewater Canyon (12.0 km, 836 m, 5-6.5h): Another classic West Kootenay hike is situated along the inside of Whitewater Canyon. Here you walk through a deep Selkirk valley, up through the meadows and finally reaching alpine lakes. This is a beautiful hike to do during wildflower season in July, or in fall (mid September).
- Gwillim Lakes (11.3 km, 693 m, 5-6.5h): This is a beautiful West Kootenay alpine hike, and is popular thanks to the backcountry campsite located here. Passing by many impressive lakes cradled by mountain peaks the whole way up, this is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Valhallas.
- Gimli Ridge (7.3 km, 694 m, 4-5.5h): Gimli Peak and Ridge is one of the shorter hikes in the Valhallas and has beautiful views throughout. This hike has stunning views of Mulvey Basin, a chance to explore the old forest, enjoy the view of Gimli Peak and bump into a Mountain Goat (or two!).
- Kokanee Glacier (16.8 km, 614 m, 4.5-6h): Hiking to Kokanee Glacier is another classic hike in the West Kootenays. This hike is a beautiful way to explore the wilderness, not too far from the towns of Nelson or Kaslo. Enjoy a swim in the cool Kokanee Lake, the pretty views down valley and wide open meadows filled with marmots.
- Idaho Peak (3.4 km, 276 m, 2-3h): Idaho Peak is a popular West Kootenay hike to do with kids. Enjoy this relatively easy walk along the ridgeline to an old fire lookout. From the top you are rewarded with exceptional views of Slocan Lake and panoramic mountain ranges – you can see as far as Kokanee Glacier just outside of Nelson.
- Fry Creek Canyon (8.3 km, 414 m, 3-5h): Fry Creek Canyon is a great shoulder season hike in the West Kootenays. This trail goes through the forest, ending where Fry Creek pours into Kootenay Lake. The canyon itself is impressive and can be followed for as long as you like.
- Pulpit Rock and Flagpole (5.4 km, 648 m, 1-3h): Pulpit Rock and Flagpole is an easy hike when staying in Nelson. This is a popular hike for a workout or family trip.
More Hikes in the West Kootenays
- Halfway Hot Springs Hike
- Kuskanax Creek Nakusp Hot Springs Trail
- Old Glory Trail
- Slocan-Evans Trail
- Kokanee Lake
- Wilson Creek Falls Trail
- Great Northern Trail
When Is the Best Time to Hike in the West Kootenays?
The prime hiking season in the West Kootenays runs from July to late September. The alpine and glacier routes, like Macbeth Icefield, Mount Loki and the Valhalla peaks, usually hold snow until mid-July, so early summer is best spent on lower trails, around the lakes, canyons and hot springs. July brings wildflowers (and mosquitoes), while September offers golden larches, thinner crowds and cooler days for the bigger climbs. Many low-elevation and lakeshore trails near Nelson and Castlegar stay walkable well into the shoulder seasons, and some are pleasant year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions About the West Kootenays
Where are the West Kootenays, and what are the main towns?
The West Kootenays are in the southeastern interior of British Columbia, in the Selkirk and Purcell mountains west of Kootenay Lake. The main gateway towns are Nelson, Kaslo, New Denver, Slocan, Nakusp and Castlegar, with Nelson the largest and the usual base for exploring the region.
Are there bears in the West Kootenays?
Yes. The West Kootenays are home to grizzly bears, black bears and cougars. Encounters are uncommon, but you should carry bear spray, make noise on the trail, keep dogs leashed and store food securely, especially on the backcountry and canyon routes.
Plan Your Trip to the West Kootenays
The West Kootenays are one of the quieter gems of hiking in British Columbia and the wider country of hiking in Canada. If you would rather have the planning handled, browse our Guided hiking tours in Canada.
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Route guides for Hiking in West Kootenays
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Macbeth Icefield Route Guide
The Macbeth Icefield hike in the West Kootenays, is the best hike for those who are after a challenging day trip. You will venture through marsh land, forest, staircases, ridgelines and rock until you reach the epic Macbeth Icefield towering above you. Enjoy a narrow waterfall that can be seen for the last few hours of the hike. Rarely visited by tourists, it is a serene and peaceful place to view the vastness of the surrounding wilderness and immerse yourself among locals who have hiked this route for many years.
Mount Loki Route Guide
The Mount Loki hike is a classic West Kootenay Hike. Mount Loki is the highest peak seen from many points along the highway between Nelson and Kaslo, and it towers above its neighbouring mountain tops. Snow covered for most of the year, Mount Loki is conquered only in the height of summer and rewards hikers with unbelievable 360 degree views, far removed from the small towns you came from. From up here, Kootenay Lake is barely noticeable, it feels like you are on top of the world.
Jumbo Pass and Horseshoe Glacier Route Guide
The Jumbo Pass hike is spectacular. Jumbo Pass, famous from Patagonia’s Jumbo Valley documentary and the indigenous history of the Northern Purcell Range, is one of the last remaining wild mountain ranges in B.C. On the hike to Jumbo Pass you can expect to see a stunning valley full of glaciers, meadows and mountain peaks. It is an extremely beautiful place to hike.
Whitewater Canyon Route Guide
The Whitewater Canyon hike take you along the inside of the canyon wall, through a deep Selkirk valley, up through the meadows and finally reaching the alpine lakes. Grizzly bears are frequently spotted on the other side of the canyon and this is a beautiful hike to do during wildflower season in July. The lakes at the top of Whitewater Canyon are turquoise blue and green and you can often see ice caps even in the height of summer.
Gwillim Lakes Route Guide
The Gwillim Lakes Hike is a beautiful hike with a large backcountry campsite located at the top. You can also hike past Gwillim Lakes and explore Lucifer Pass over a full weekend. Passing by many impressive lakes cradled by mountain peaks the whole way up, mirrored pools and flowers a plenty, the Gwillim Lakes hike is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Valhallas.
Gimli Ridge Route Guide
The Gimli Ridge hike is one of the shorter hikes in the Valhallas, but has beautiful views throughout. With stunning views of Mulvey Basin and a chance to explore the old forest, enjoy the view of Gimli Peak and you just may bump into a Mountain Goat (or two!). The Gimli Ridge hike is a hike not to be missed.
Kokanee Glacier Cabin Route Guide
The Kokanee Glacier Cabin hike is a stunning hike in Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park. Starting at Gibson Lake, the hike to Kokanee Glacier Cabin is a beautiful way to explore the wilderness, not too far from the towns of Nelson or Kaslo.
Idaho Peak Route Guide
Important Notice: The road leading to Idaho Peak trailhead is currently washed out by a mudslide and might take a long time to repair. Please check here for the up to date information.
The Idaho Peak hike is a relatively quick and easy walk along the ridgeline, through colourful wildflowers to an old fire lookout on the top of Idaho Peak. This classic local hike is not one to be missed! From the top of Idaho Peak you are rewarded with exceptional views of Slocan Lake and panoramic mountain ranges – you can see as far as Kokanee Glacier just outside of Nelson.
Fry Creek Canyon Route Guide
The Fry Creek Canyon hike is a great shoulder season hike through the impressive Fry Creek Canyon. The canyon itself is impressive and can be followed for as long as you like, although it was partly washed out in 2018. There are plenty of options to explore the beaches, forest and canyon on this hike and head off trail.
Pulpit Rock & the Flagpole Route Guide
The Pulpit Rock hike, and the optional extension to the Flagpole, is a great hike when staying in Nelson. Getting to Pulpit Rock is an easy hike, however, the extra elevation to get to the Flagpole make this an intermediate hike. Pulpit rock offers a beautiful panoramic view of the town of Nelson and west arm of Kootenay Lake. If you make the extra trip to Flagpole you can see down the river towards Castlegar. Perfect for an afternoon trip all year round!
Plaid Lake and Mt Crawford Route Guide
Plaid Lake is a beautiful hike with an optional extension to summit Mount Crawford for spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The elevation gain is the most challenging part of this hike as you ascend and descend twice to enter the lake. Mount Crawford is close to as high as Mount Loki and overlooks Loki and many other peaks in this area. On the way up, the ridgeline unveils glimpses of Kootenay Lake cloaking the land below.
Mel DeAnna Trail Loop Route Guide
The Mel DeAnna Trail Loop is a 3.3mi hiking route near Castlegar, BC, that loops through the forest to visit the shores of a marshy woodland lake. The trail features interpretive signs that provide information on the surrounding area, as well as a good variety of terrain that includes forested paths, rocky sections of trail, stairs, and wet areas of marsh around the lake. This family-friendly trail is suitable for hikers of almost every skill level and the interesting terrain will make it feel like a full-on adventure for anyone travelling with kids.
Gibson Lake Trail to Keen Lake Route Guide
The Gibson Lake Trail to Keen Lake is an 11.6mi out-and-back hiking route in Kokanee Glacier Provincial park that will take you through some picturesque subalpine terrain on the way to see several charming lakes. Although long, this trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, making for a great longer distance route that is perfect for casual and experienced hikers alike. Make sure to arrive early, as the trailhead is located near the entrance to the park and can become quite busy.
White Queen Hike Route Guide
The trail to the summit of the White Queen is a 6.3mi out-and-back hiking route near Nelson, BC, that will take you through a beautiful stretch of forest and along a ridgeline for views overlooking West Arm Provincial Park. Along the way, hikers will cross over Apex Creek and can expect a peaceful forest setting with amazing views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. This trail features some moderate elevation gain and light scrambling, so make sure to wear proper hiking footwear.
Pilot Bay Peninsula Trail Route Guide
The Pilot Bay Peninsula Trail is a 9km out-and-back hiking route in Pilot Bay Provincial Park that follows along the edge of Kootenay Lake before turning east on an uphill climb through the forest. Along the lower portion of the hike, you will be able to experience amazing views over the water from several viewpoints before relaxing in the peaceful setting of the forest. Make sure to bring bug spray along for this hike, as warm summer months can see mosquitoes out on the trail.
Ripple Ridge Trail Route Guide
The Ripple Ridge Trail is a 6.3mi out-and-back hiking route in Stagleap Provincial Park that will take you from the edge of Bridal Lake to the top of Ripple Ridge. Along the trail, hikers will experience a beautiful forest setting, as well as panoramic views overlooking the park and the Canada-U.S. border. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as caribou and sheep are often spotted near the highway.
Gibson Lake Loop Hike Route Guide
The Gibson Lake Loop Hike is a short 1.2mi hiking route in Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park that travels around the peaceful shores of Gibson Lake and offers a scenic backdrop of rugged mountains. As the main access point for the park, this trail can become fairly busy, especially in the summer months, so make sure to arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the trail. The short distance and level terrain make this a great family-friendly route where you can explore the beauty of the park.
Halfway Hot Springs Hike Route Guide
The trail to the Halfway Hot Springs is a short 1.0mi hiking route that descends through the forest to arrive at several relaxing thermal springs. While the trail isn’t long or overly difficult, it does feature a long series of stairs and a few steep sections of trail on the descent to the springs, which will restrict mobility for some hikers. If you are not planning to camp overnight and simply want to visit the hot springs, make sure to arrive early in order to beat the crowds.
Pulpit Rock Hike Route Guide
Pulpit Rock is a 2.2mi out-and-back hiking route in Nelson, BC that climbs uphill through a serene forest of pine trees to reach a rocky bluff overlooking the city. Along the trail, you will be able to experience the peaceful forest setting and climb up a series of switchbacks before enjoying the sweeping views across the water, city, and surrounding mountains. This is a popular lookout, and parking is limited, so make sure to arrive early to beat the crowds.
Kokanee Lake Route Guide
The hike to Kokanee Lake is a 6.3mi out-and-back route in Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park that will take you from the shores of Gibson Lake into the backcountry to visit the pristine waters of Kokanee Lake. This trail features a good variation in terrain that is made up of beautiful forested trails and scenic subalpine landscape. This is a perfect moderate hike for those looking to begin exploring the natural beauty of the park.
Pilot Bay Lighthouse Trail Route Guide
The Pilot Bay Lighthouse Trail is a 0.4mi out-and-back hiking route in Pilot Bay Provincial Park that will briefly take you uphill to visit an historic lighthouse that was built in 1904. Along the hike you will be surrounded by a beautiful forest setting and have views stretching out over Kootenay Lake. This is a short family-friendly hike that is also suitable for those with historical interests.
Arrow Mountain Route Guide
The Arrow Mountain trail is a 8.3mi out-and-back hiking route in Creston, BC, that will take you on a steep route through the forest to the summit of the mountain. Although there aren’t any real views from the summit, hikers will be able to experience some nice views across the valley at different points along the trail. This is a steep hiking route, so remember to bring proper hiking footwear and plenty of water.
Thompson Rim Trail Route Guide
The Thompson Rim Trail is a 4.4mi out-and-back hiking route near Creston, BC, that will take you up a ridgeline to the summit of Mount Thompson for some scenic views over the Creston Valley and the neighbouring U.S. state of Idaho. Along the trail, you will experience a variety of terrain, including beautiful stretches of forest and exposed rocky sections on the way to the summit. Bring plenty of water, as there are few sources along the route.
Balancing Rock Trail Route Guide
The Balancing Rock Trail is a quick 1.5mi out-and-back hiking route near Creston, BC, that will take you up to visit a scenic lookout point next to a giant boulder that is balanced atop the bedrock. The trail is mostly made up of switchbacks that climb up the hillside to the lookout, where you can enjoy a sweeping view across the Creston Valley. This trail can become fairly icy/slippery, so make sure to wear proper hiking footwear, especially in the shoulder seasons.
Mount Creston Trail Route Guide
The Mount Creston Trail is a 4.8mi out-and-back hiking route near Creston, BC, that will take you to several scenic viewpoints that overlook the valley from Balancing Rock and the end of the trail. Along the route, hikers will work through a series of switchbacks to reach the first viewpoint before continuing through a lovely stretch of forest to reach the second. Make sure to bring bug repellent along for this hike, as warmer weather can see the trail heavily populated by mosquitoes.
Ka Papa Cedar Trail Route Guide
The Ka Papa Cedar Trail is a 1.3mi lollipop hiking route near Stagleap Provincial Park that will lead you through a beautiful stretch of forest surrounded by stunning old-growth cedar trees. While there aren't any scenic viewpoints along the route, the relaxing forest atmosphere and ancient trees will provide enough points of interest to keep you excited and entertained along the trail. With a short distance, easy terrain, and amazing scenery, this is a family-friendly hike that will feel like a fun adventure.
Ymir Mountain Hike Route Guide
The trail leading up Ymir Mountain is a 3.9mi out-and-back hiking route at the Whitewater Ski Resort that climbs uphill through some rocky and technical terrain for amazing views from the summit. The trail follows closely alongside Apex Creek before working up to the ridgeline to an eventual ascent of the summit. From here, you can expect 360° views of the surrounding mountain peaks, including the Sherpa, Vili, and Enma peaks.
Old Growth Recreation Trail Route Guide
The Old Growth Recreation Trail is a 1.6mi out-and-back hiking route near the entrance to Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park that will allow you to get up-close and personal with some massive cedar trees. Located right off the main road, this easy-to-navigate trail is the perfect place for a roadside stop to stretch your legs and enjoy the beauty of nature. Take your time exploring the area and reading from the interpretive signs along the trail to find out more about the beautiful forest landscape.
Slocan-Evans Trail Route Guide
The Slocan-Evans Trail is an 5.1mi out-and-back hiking route that sets out from the town of Slocan and follows closely along the edge of Slocan Lake as it enters Valhalla Provincial Park. The trail is made up of easy-to-navigate forest terrain that provides hikers with numerous viewpoints from which they can look out over the picturesque waters of the lake. Wear proper hiking footwear and avoid this trail in wet weather, as there are several boulder fields along the route that can become extremely slippery when wet.
Wilson Creek Falls Trail Route Guide
The Wilson Creek Falls Trail is a 1.8mi out-and-back route in Goat Range Provincial Park that travels along a heavily wooded path to arrive at the majestic water of the falls. Once you reach the end of the trail, you will have an amazing view of the powerful and impressive waterfall, as the water gushes over the rugged rock formation. Be careful if traversing this trail with children, as there are a few steep sections that are manageable if you take your time.
Nancy Greene Lake Loop Route Guide
The Nancy Greene Lake Loop is a 2.5mi circuit hiking route in Nancy Greene Provincial Park that skirts around the tranquil shores of the lake and explores the surrounding forests. Along the trail, you will experience a peaceful woodland atmosphere and take in amazingly scenic views over the calm waters of the lake. With easy terrain and picturesque surroundings, this is a family-friendly hike that is perfect when combined with a weekend of camping.
Badger Trail Route Guide
The Badger Trail is an 5.0mi lollipop hiking route that passes through a residential area before entering into Gladstone Provincial Park. Once in the park, hikers will experience forested trails and scenic views over Christina Lake from Mary’s Lookout. Those looking for more of an adventure can continue along the eastern edge of the lake past the campground to extend their hike for a few more kilometres.
Old Glory Trail Route Guide
The Old Glory Trail is a 11.8mi out-and-back hiking route in the Rossland Range Recreation Site that climbs uphill through the forest to visit the crash site of a RCAF B-25 Mitchell Bomber from 1947 and the summit of Old Glory Mountain. Along the trail, you can expect to hike through dense forests, over steep, rocky terrain, and witness amazing views from the rugged summit of the mountain. This is a great hike for those looking for a fun challenge, as well as anyone with historical interests.
Kuskanax Creek Nakusp Hot Springs Trail Route Guide
The Kuskanax Creek Nakusp Hot Springs Trail is a 10.3mi out-and-back hiking route that climbs uphill through the canyon and passes through beautiful old-growth forests to arrive at several relaxing hot springs along the Kuskanax Creek. Hikers can expect a moderately difficult route with a decent elevation gain and good mix of terrain that includes forested trails and creek crossings. Remember to pack your swimwear to take full advantage of the restorative nature of the thermal pools after the first leg of the hike.
Great Northern Trail Route Guide
The Great Northern Trail is an 6.9mi 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.
McPhee Waterfalls Hike Route Guide
The McPhee Waterfalls Hike is a 3.5mi out-and-back hiking route near Castlegar, BC, that will take you along the edge of the Kootenay River to reach a stunning, moss-covered waterfall. Along the trail, you can expect to pass through beautiful stretches of forest and experience scenic views that stretch across the valley. Make sure to travel in groups and bring bear spray, as cougars are sometimes seen along the trail.
Merry Creek Trail Route Guide
The Merry Creek Trail is a 2.8mi lollipop hiking route in Castlegar, BC that passes through a picturesque forest setting and follows closely alongside the rushing waters of Merry Creek. Along the trail, hikers will have some scenic views of the surrounding Selkirk Mountains and experience the natural beauty of the woodland landscape in this area. Made up of shady forested paths and wooden boardwalks, this is a family-friendly trail that can be enjoyed by hikers of all skill levels.
Mount Roberts Trail Route Guide
The hike up Mount Roberts follows a rugged 4.6mi out-and-back trail that will take you up the mountain for some spectacular sweeping views across the Rossland Mountain Range. The trail climbs uphill through the forest before breaking out into more steep, rocky, and technical terrain on the approach to the summit. Make sure to bring plenty of water in the summer months, as the upper portions of the trail are fairly exposed.
Christina Lake Hike Route Guide
The Christina Lake Hike is a 14.1mi out-and-back route that sets out from the Texas Creek Campground and travels along the eastern shore of the lake to its northernmost point. Along the trail, you will hike through beautifully scenic forests and experience views that stretch across the picturesque waters of the lake and surrounding mountains. Make sure to bring bear spray and make plenty of noise along the trail, as bears are often spotted in the area.
Thanksgiving Mountain Route Guide
Thanksgiving Mountain is a quick 2.1mi out-and-back hiking route that will take you up to the summit for some amazing mountain views. A popular destination with locals around the Thanksgiving holiday season, this trail is a relatively easy way to bag a peak and cash in on the beautiful scenery that comes with it. This trail will require some basic route finding skills near the top.
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