Pick from a sample of the best local walks and hikes…

With trail access into two completely different mountain ranges (Selkirk and Purcell), there is a variety of terrain and ecosystems to explore.  There are numerous impressive trails both in protected wilderness areas, like Valhalla, Kokanee Glacier and Goat Provincial Park or in stunning wilderness areas on crown land. 

Depending on your interests, we will help you uncover the trail which best suits you.  Every trail has a number of gems to discover! Some trails are better suited to depart from Nelson, while others are easier access from Kaslo or New Denver.   Access by vehicle varies in terms of road maintenance; some may require a high clearance vehicle.  We can arrange transportation to trailheads if requested ahead, see bookings.

Join us for a half or full day walk , a theme hike , a heli-hike or a custom guided trip . Here’s a taste of some of the places we keep going back to, we’ve shared our favorite four trips, ranging from easy to advanced.  There are dozens more trails to explore…

Easy Half or Full Day Walks 

Idaho Peak Lookout

This scenic trail is one of the most popular walks and rightly so, as easy vehicle access brings you right into the alpine.  The famous wildflower meadows of Idaho Peak are captured in many postcards and visitor albums.    Catch its peak in mid-July to mid-August as you wander on an easy trail that’s perfect for everyone in the family.  The walking ridge affords you stunning views of the Selkirk Mountains and Slocan Lake.  

ü      2.8 km (1.7 mi) round trip

ü      146 m (480 ft) elevation gain

ü      Chocolate Fondue is available to add to your views

ü      Trail head between New Denver and Kaslo

Trip into an Old Growth Forest

A majestic forest area, come discover the lush plants that live in the cool cedar ecosystem.  Wander at a leisurely pace on the well established trail.   Trail head is very close to Nelson. Cedar Grove trail is a stunning forest with a dramatic grove of old cedar and hemlock trees, wander through avalanche terrain and along the gurgling river of Kokanee. 

ü      2 km (1.2 mi) round trip

ü      122 m (400 ft) elevation gain 

Fry Creek Canyon

Enjoy the splendor of wandering out to the mouth of Fry Creek, where water cascades noisily down the river, carving out pools and sediments that make up the beautiful beach headland jutting out in the 110 km long Kootenay Lake.  Wander on a gentle historic trail that suspends above the canyon, enjoy the sound of gurgling water and discovering the tributaries that feed the river.  

ü      5-10 km (< 6 mi.)

ü      152 m (500 ft.)

ü      Trail head northeast of Kaslo

Moderate Full Day Hikes Samples

The Magic of Monica Meadows

Some people would consider a visit to Monica the highlight of their journey.  The road into Glacier Creek area itself is an adventure, winding along a rapid river and affording views of the Horseshoe and Macbeth Glaciers.  The trail ascends through a sub alpine forest, landing you in incredible paintbrush landscape of flowers, particularly mid-summer.  Wander above tree line, soaking in the steep peaks around you or rest on rock outcrop taking panoramic photos to later tape to your fridge.

ü      Moderate full day hike

ü      8 km (5.1 mi.) round trip

ü      579 m (1900 ft.) elevation gain

ü      We also offer climbing programs in this scenic area.

ü      Trail head is northeast of Kaslo, rough road conditions

 Alpine Impressions at Jumbo Pass

 Located in the heart of the Purcell Mountains, Jumbo pass presents some impressive views of glaciers, moraines and peaks in a panoramic direction.  The trail contours through a beautiful mountain hemlock forest and opens up into small natural clearings full of wildflowers as you ascend into the alpine, where mountain goats are tucked away on high vertical ridges above you.   Walk into this scenic wilderness and you’ll understand why hundreds of people are opposed to ski resort development proposed here.

ü      8.4 km (5.2 mi) round trip

ü      686 m (2250 ft) elevation gain

ü      Fondue is available to add to your views from the pass.

ü      Trail head is northeast of Kaslo

Gimli Peak and the Valhalla Guardians

 This is a hike you definitely don’t want to miss!  Located in the Valhalla Mountains, the stunning rock of Gimli, Asguard, Daag and a number of other impressive summits greet you as you ascend the into the alpine.  The trail wanders on the spine of easy shoulder, working its way through avalanches paths.    The habitat is prime for wildlife, including grizzly and black bear as well as an array of forest and high alpine flowers.  

ü      9.7 km (6 mi) round trip

ü      765 m (2510 ft) elevation gain

ü      We also offer heli-hiking and classic alpine programs in this scenic area.

ü      Trail head between Nelson and New Denver

Alps Alturus

 Striking views, alpine meadows, dramatic basins with a perfect lake to soak your feet in are all on the menu at Alps Alturus.   You’ll share the stunning views with the grizzlies, pikas and marmots that live there.  The ascent is surprisingly easy as a forestry service road brings your vehicle to 1762m. 

ü      12.9 km (8 mi.) round trip

ü      995 m (3265 ft.) elevation gain

ü      Trail head between New Denver and Nakusp

Advanced Full Day Hike Sample

Mac Beth Ice field

Enjoy the magnificence of being in the sounds and sights of where waterfalls, glacier and rock meet.  Your walk will take you through lush meadows, old forests and challenge your muscles to ascend a series of stairs to bring to a gloriously wild alpine basin.  You physical exertion is worth the views of Horseshoe Glacier, Mac Beth Glacier and Duncan Lake far below. 

ü      15.6 km (9.7 mi.) round trip

ü      1082 m (3550 ft.) elevation gain

ü      Trail head northeast of Kaslo

 ü      701 m (2300 ft.) elevation gain

ü      Trail head between Nelson and New Denver