The crowds keep streaming into this park, unperturbed by thick snow or rising summer temperatures. It’s easy to see what draws them, humongous red cedars give way to a spectacular carpet of wildflowers, their colours and scents permanently imprinted in our memories. And audacious black bears come out to feed, truly untamed and unrestricted.
1. Giant Cedars and Skunk Cabbage Boardwalks
Short but epic! That sums up Mount Revelstoke National Park’s much loved attractions. The Giant Cedars Boardwalk is dotted with mammoth cedars that are believed to be about 500 years old. Skunk Cabbage Boardwalk is no less astounding with its mega skunk cabbages that live upto its foul smelling name!
2. Meadows in the Sky Parkway
Picture yourself traveling along a well paved road, surrounded by rugged peaks, conifers and gorgeous wildflowers. Don’t overwork your imagination, simply get your car or bicycle ready for this legendary parkway that will take you to the top of Mount Revelstoke. You could also take advantage of the park’s shuttle service.
3. Mount Revelstoke’s Summit Area
As you stand at the top of the world, the vistas will become more spell binding. The sun will set so magically you will long for an encore. And you will delve into the park’s riveting history as you stroll along the Koo Koo Sint and First Footsteps Trails.
4. Mount Revelstoke Trail
The onset of winter spells nothing but adventure for snowshoers and skiers. The Mount Revelstoke Trail will lead you to the Nels Nelsen Historic Area. From here you can explore various sections of the mountain and eventually spend the night in the Caribou Cabin. If you are lucky, you may spot a couple of mountain caribou.
5. The Nels Nelsen Ski Jump
Prior to 1975, Nels Nelsen Hill aka Big Hill had given rise to a number of world length records including two that were set by renowned ski jumper Nels Nelsen. Although no jumping is allowed nowadays, the area is ideal for mountain biking offering challenges to both novice and professional riders.
6. Miller, Eva, and Jade Lakes
Would you like to spend a day or more exploring this park’s pristine lakes? If yes, then this group of lakes will put a smile on your face. You will gaze at sparkling jade green waters, cross paths with golden-mantled ground squirrels and spend the night under the stars next to Eva or Upper Jade Lake.
7. First Footsteps Trail
So, you want to marvel at the beauty of Revelstoke but you are not up to a long hike. Don’t worry, this short trail will offer you different panoramas of the subalpine meadows. Artwork and sculptures by the Secwepemc, Ktunaxa and Okanagan First Nations will line your path completing your cultural and natural experience.
8. Inspiration Woods
Walking through lichen-draped firs and hemlocks, one can’t help but feel inspired. Ferns and moss thrive in this wet environment and they are joined by a variety of mushrooms between September and October. You can hike in summer and bring your snowshoes with you when you return in winter.
9. Soren Sorensen Trail
Bring your bike, bring your dog or bring your children, the Soren Sorensen Trail is a great workout for everyone. It has a short 2km loop that can be covered in about half an hour but if that’s not enough walking for you, then you can tackle the longer 5km loop.
10. Monashee Viewpoint
Ask anyone that’s visited Mount Revelstoke National Park and they’ll tell you that the views are to die for. Why not make your way to the Monashee Viewpoint on the Meadows in the Sky Parkway and create your own great story. Don’t forget to include lots of photographic evidence!