Kootenay Rockies: Your Guide to the Top 5 Outdoor Adventures
Planning a trip up into the Kootenay Rockies? Well, that is something a lot of people do, because honestly you’re in for a treat! It’s almost like this region, snuggled in the southeast part of British Columbia, is practically bursting with things you can do in the open air. We’re talking unreal mountain views, shimmering lakes, and so, so many trails. Figuring out where to start can, at times, be a bit overwhelming, so I figured I’d give you my top picks to get going.
1. Hiking in Glacier National Park
Ok, so first up: hiking in Glacier National Park, that is something a lot of people look forward to! No, very seriously, not the one in Montana – that, is a different gem. This park, just a little east of Revelstoke, offers some of the more breathtaking hiking trails you can find anywhere. The trails seriously wind through old-growth forests and lead you to those gorgeous alpine meadows just full of wildflowers. You know, that whole deal.
One that is always a good choice is the Hermit Trail because its views of the Illecillewaet Glacier are amazing. Keep in your mind it is a climb, right? And the Avalanche Crest Trail? So that one gives you panoramas that seem endless. Really, bring your camera!
Pro Tip: August is possibly the best time to hit these trails when pretty much every single one of those wildflowers is doing their thing, so to be surrounded by them it just creates a special thing. Be sure to check conditions, too. Glacier National Park – the Canadian one, that is – can have rather swift weather shifts!
2. Whitewater Rafting on the Kicking Horse River
Seeking a bit more splash and thrills? I can tell you that the Kicking Horse River is practically begging for you to come and get your adrenaline pumping, and that really it can be so rewarding. Right close to Golden, the Kicking Horse is super known for its intense whitewater rapids and like that, is so popular with the rafting fans. So it sounds very cool!
There’s options for everyone on this river; if you’ve got people who are seasoned paddlers or if you are new, that could be you as guides abound for every skill level. Depending on the section, Class III and IV rapids can definitely bring on some excitement. Very much count on getting soaked and hanging on tight.
Local Flavor: So many local rafting companies provide packages including pretty much all the gear you’re going to need and instruction, but make reservations, okay? The summer months? Super popular! Also, you’ll be wanting some waterproof sunscreen – obviously – ’cause the sun reflecting on the water could be rather strong, even on the cloudy days.
3. Skiing and Snowboarding at Revelstoke Mountain Resort
When that snow starts to fall, very naturally everyone starts flocking to Revelstoke, ’cause really they do love that mountain. Revelstoke Mountain Resort is pretty well known for, obviously, that crazy vertical drop – highest in North America, you know? Plus, I find that there are so many of varied terrain types and powder bowls. Basically something here will fit. I’ve found from wide open runs for the relaxed cruiser to steep, treed areas. So definitely, you’re getting an all-encompassing type thing.
But honestly, the gondola ride itself? Worth it even when you’re not planning to go ski. Oh, by the way, cat-skiing and heli-skiing? Seriously popular around Revelstoke!
Après-Ski: After that powder gets all sliced up, like, go get some grub in town! Revelstoke’s actually, is filled with cool pubs, bistros, you name it, all wanting to make you feel toasty and welcoming!
4. Mountain Biking in Rossland
So for bikers out there, I believe that Rossland truly is something kind of like an undiscovered treasure trove. Frequently called the “Mountain Bike Capital of Canada,” Rossland is that is virtually encircled by trails for all experience tiers. Think smooth, flowing routes or that super steep technical singletrack – or stuff that really, is like a combo. Honestly there is something here to get pretty much every type of cyclist buzzing.
The Seven Summits Trail is arguably Rossland’s pretty well known run, although you might need like all day and for someone with some solid conditioning! Many shuttle services are in the local area and very easy to schedule.
Bike Culture: Rossland loves mountain biking! Don’t miss shops and local gatherings just designed so you can chat it up with other riders – or people at least!
5. Exploring Lake Windermere
Lake Windermere sounds like it is really that postcard type place where one could want to unwind, so they like take a dip or something! A popular summertime attraction – Lake Windermere sounds very relaxing, like for those just eager for watersports, so a relaxing thing, yet? That longish lake near Invermere lends itself to all kinds of things! Swim, boat or even just hang and chill on the beach.
Rent something. Kayak or try paddleboarding or go waterskiing.
Beach Life: All ’round the lake, communities are alive and bustling – they boast cute shops and, yes, the food scenes here? Doing okay, really! Windermere is like that picture of summer living – you’re just breathing!