5 Reasons to Head to Eastern BC for Mountain Adventure

Think you’ve seen big mountains? Head to BC’s eastern ranges, where jutting peaks tower over the land, and everything else seems small in comparison. If you like to play outside, you’ve likely heard about the hiking, biking, and water activities in and around towns like Revelstoke, Fernie, and Nelson. Though a journey through these mountain passes may take you farther from home, your getaway is guaranteed to pack a punch, with big mountain adventures, jaw-dropping scenery, and a craft beer or two. Plan a longer stay and you may never want to leave.

Lift-accessed alpine trails at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and Revelstoke Mountain Resort lead to the fresh scent of mountain air and evergreens. For a truly remote experience, stay at Purcell Mountain Lodge, a heli-accessed backcountry hiking lodge tucked in the mountains near Golden. 

There are also a number of well-known waterfalls to explore, like Wapta Falls, located in Yoho National Park, where you’ll find the iconic Emerald Lake Lodge. Wells Gray Provincial Park boasts volcanoes, mineral hot springs, glaciers, and waterfalls, including the famous Helmcken Falls, which stands 141 metres tall. Explore the area further and you will find plenty of lesser-known and equally beautiful spots (cue: Sutherland Falls near Revelstoke, accessible off Highway 23). 

Always check trail conditions before you head out, and no matter what outdoor activity you are planning, be prepared. AdventureSmart and Leave No Trace are great resources to help you get informed before heading outdoors. Follow the three Ts—trip planning, training, and taking the essentials.

Revelstoke, known for its big mountain rides, is a showstopper. Ride flowy blue and technical black downhill trails in BC’s newest bike park, including the famed Fifty Six Twenty (named for its heart-pumping vertical descent). While in town, conquer the Frisby Ridge cross-country trail. With an 836-metre elevation gain over 12 kilometres, the climb is tough, but alpine views and wildflowers are well worth the effort. Wandering Wheels offers guided tours, shuttles, and heli-biking for advanced riders.

Touted as the “Mountain Biking Capital of Canada” by Explore Magazine, Rossland’s 200 kilometres of trails spread across the valley like veins. The Seven Summits is an “epic” trail that descends from peak to valley— Seven Summits Coffee Company is named in its honour (and their coffee is amazing to boot). New Denver (a two-hour drive north) boasts the wheelchair accessible Galena Trail. Head east to Fernie in search of endless singletrack, a skills area, and a lift-accessed bike park—all within a short radius of town. 

No ride is complete without an après session at a local craft brewery or pub. Fernie Brewing Co, Whitetooth Brewing in Golden, and Revelstoke’s Rockford Bar & Grill are great places to sample brews while swapping trail intel and riding stories.

Featured Image: Hiking in Mount Robson Provincial Park | Megan McLellan