Thankfully, Western Canada has some great hot springs. In fact, all of the hot springs in Canada are in British Columbia, Alberta, and Yukon Territory. Sorry Eastern Canada – we win this one 🙂

In this guide, I’ve got info and directions for the best hot springs in Canada. These hot springs are all easy to access by car, although some require a short hike or an easy to arrange boat tour.

Note: There are dozens of other hot springs in Canada, but they require hours of bushwhacking or they are really more warm springs, than hot, so I left them off this list.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

Hot Springs Etiquette

Hot springs exist in unique and fragile ecosystems. If you visit an undeveloped hot spring, tread lightly to minimize your impact. Some hot springs in British Columbia have gotten overrun with trash or closed due to human-bear conflicts. Learn about Leave No Trace to protect our hot springs.

Here are some basic tips for hot springs etiquette:

• Pack out all trash with you. Avoid bringing glass bottles to hot springs.
• Use washrooms or outhouses. Every hot spring on this list has a toilet nearby. Please use them to prevent the spread of disease, which can get into the hot springs.
• Do not use soap or shampoo in the hot springs. It pollutes the pools, kills plants and fish, and creates gross algae blooms.
• Keep your dog out of the water. Dogs carry diseases like leptospirosis that thrive in warm water.
• Be considerate of other users. Many people come to hot springs to relax, not to party.
• Bring a water bottle and drink lots of water. Otherwise, you can get dehydrated or overheated easily.
• Bring some flipflops or sandals to wear around the pools. Undeveloped springs often have sharp or uneven rocks. At commercial springs, sandals are nice to have for sanitary reasons.
• At natural springs, be prepared to see some nudity. It’s often not officially permitted, but it’s still very common, especially at night. But please keep things PG if you visit the hot springs with a partner!
• If you plan to travel on backroads or hike to hot springs, leave a trip plan with a friend and carry the 10 Essentials.

Hot Springs Resources

By far the best book about Canada’s hot springs is Hot Springs of Western Canada. I used an earlier edition of this book for years and recently picked up the 4th edition. It has tons of info on every hot spring, including tons of really obscure ones that are hard to reach.

If you plan to visit any of the undeveloped hot springs in Canada, you’ll have to drive on some remote logging roads. These roads have lots of confusing junctions, which makes navigation difficult. And there’s usually no cell service out there. I always bring a copy of the Backroad map book to prevent getting lost.

I’ve also made a custom hot springs Google map for you. It includes the location of every single Canadian hot spring I mention in this post. Click the map to navigate around. As you can see, most of the hot springs on the map are in British Columbia, or very close to it.

Hot Springs in the Vancouver Area

There are several hot springs near Vancouver and in the Sea to Sky corridor near Whistler.

Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is a small resort community in the Fraser Valley just east of Vancouver. The springs bubble up along the lakeshore, then are piped into a series of pools at the Harrison Hotsprings Resort as well to a public community pool.

The Harrison Hot Springs Resort is a hotel with a spa. They have two indoor pools and three outdoor pools of varying temperatures. The whole thing has a resort/spa atmosphere with rock features and deck chairs. It’s a family-friendly place, but there is an adults-only pool if you don’t want to share space with splashing kids.

You must book a room at the hotel to access the pools. Unfortunately, there are is no day-use access. I’ve never soaked here, but my husband did a charity bike ride that included access to the hot springs. He said it was amazing after riding over 100km!

You can soak in the exact same water in a less luxurious setting at the Harrison Hot Springs Public Pool. It’s basically an indoor community centre-style pool that happens to be naturally hot.

How to get to Harrison Hot Springs: From Vancouver take Highway 1 east. Then take Highway 9 to Harrison Hot Springs. Once you are in town it’s easy to find both the resort and the public hot springs pool. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Public Pool Cost: Prices are not posted online anywhere, but the last info I have says it is $15 for adults.

Resort Cost: Rooms start at $179/night and include access to the hot springs.

Where to Stay: Harrison Hot Springs Resort

Keyhole Hot Springs (Lilwatatkwa7)

Note: Keyhole Hot Springs has been closed since November 2023 due to slope destabilization from a a wildfire and have no re-opening date. The springs are usually closed between April 1st and November 15th each year due to bears.

The picturesque Keyhole Hot Springs were seldom visited until a few years ago when they got REALLY popular thanks to social media. Part of their popularity is that these hot springs are not too far from Vancouver and Whistler. They are located west of Pemberton on gravel logging roads.

A 2-kilometre long trail leads down from the road to the banks of Pebble Creek. (The hot springs are also sometimes called Pebble Creek Hot Springs.) There are a few small pools wedged against the steep bank. Each holds one or two people. The lower pools can sometimes be flooded by the river.

There is an outhouse at the parking lot and a campground on the trail to the pools. Unfortunately with increased use and some very careless campers, the area started to attract black bears and grizzly bears. After a few scary incidents, the entire area is now closed from April 1st to November 15th each year.

Getting to Keyhole Hot Springs:  Since the hot springs are located on a remote backroad that isn’t plowed, you need a 4wd and winter driving experience or a snowmobile to get to the hot springs during the months they are open.

From Pemberton, drive Pemberton Meadows Road for 23.5km, and then turn right on Lillooet Forest Service Road. Stay on this road for 20km then watch for the sign for the hot springs on the right-hand side.

Cost: Free

Where to Stay: You can walk into the unofficial campsites near the springs, but be prepared for winter camping conditions. Alternatively, book a hotel in Pemberton.

Tsek Hot Springs

Note: As of December 2024, Tsek Hot Springs remains closed. The St’át’imc First Nation have chosen not to reopen the springs following the pandemic.

The Tsek Hot Springs are located on a remote (but accessible) forest service road east of Pemberton, BC. They are also known as Skookumchuck Hot Spring or St. Agnes Well. In the last decade, these hot springs have reverted to their traditional name, Tsek, pronounced “chick”. It means water droplet or dripping water.  

Tsek Hot Springs have been run by the St’át’imc First Nation for the last decade or so. The waters of the springs are important to their culture and spirituality, so you need to be respectful if you visit. I haven’t visited these springs, but I hear they have a rustic feel.

Water from the hot spring is piped into 11 tubs. Four of them are hot water and the rest are hot water with a cold water tap so you can adjust the temperature. There’s also a cold water tub with water from a nearby creek. There is a change house and outhouses.

How to get to Tsek Hot Springs: From Pemberton, go north on Highway 99 through Pemberton and Mount Currie. Shortly after the Lillooet Lake Bridge, go right onto In-SHUCK-ch Forest Service Road. This is a gravel road, but it is in good shape and is fine for all vehicles. Follow this road for 47km along the shores of Lillooet Lake and the Lillooet River. The drive will take about 1.75 hours. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: Adults: $7.50; Seniors and Youth: $5; Children 15 and under: free

Where to Stay: Camp at the springs or stay in nearby Pemberton.

Sloquet Hot Springs

Sloquet Hot Springs are just down the road from Tsek. It can be a bit of a party spot with drunken campers and loud music. (I had a pretty sleepless night there about 15 years ago.)

However, for the last decade, the local Xa’xtsa First Nation has managed the site on behalf of Sites and Trails BC. I’ve heard it has calmed down a bit now that there is an on-site caretaker. It’s still really busy on long weekends though.

To reach the springs, you’ll have to take a short but steep trail down to the banks of the Sloquet River. The hot springs bubble down over a hot waterfall into a small, shallow pool that is too hot for most people. From there, the water trickles into a series of natural rock pools towards the river, getting cooler as it goes downhill. It’s a pretty gorgeous setting.

There’s no change house here, so get your suit on in your car. Outhouses are located up the hill in the campground.

How to get to Sloquet Hot Springs: From Pemberton, go north on Highway 99 through Pemberton and Mount Currie. Shortly after the Lillooet Lake Bridge, go right onto In-SHUCK-ch Forest Service Road. This is a gravel road, but it is in good shape and is fine for all vehicles.

Follow this road for 76km to a bridge over the Lillooet River, passing Tsek Hot Springs. Turn left onto Lillooet West Forest Service Road and drive for 4km. Next, turn right onto Sloquet Forest Service Road. Follow this road for about 8.5km to the hot springs. Note: In winter the Sloquet Road is not plowed and will be impassable.

Cost: $10

Where to Stay: Camp at the springs or stay in nearby Pemberton.

READ NEXT: 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler

Hot Springs on Vancouver Island

There is only one hot spring on Vancouver Island: Hot Springs Cove near Tofino.

Hot Springs Cove

Hot Springs Cove is a unique hot spring is located in Maquinna Provincial Park in Clayoquot Sound on the west side of Vancouver Island. The nearest town is Tofino.

Hot water bubbles up through the bedrock into a large fissure in the rocks, before flowing into the ocean. There are a series of natural rock pools that descend all the way to the sea. At high tide, only a few of the pools are exposed. This hot spring has been on my bucket list for a LONG time, so I can’t wait to visit it.

The hot spring is at the end of a 1.5km long boardwalk trail. There is an outhouse and a change room near the springs. Apparently, the rocks can be slippery and you may need to do some clambering around to get into the pools. Bring water shoes or sandals to make it easier.

How to get to Hot Springs Cove: The only way to get to Hot Springs Cove is by boat or plane from Tofino. Thankfully, it’s pretty easy to arrange with several tour operators offering trips. The boat ride takes about 1.5 hours and the plane ride is about 20 minutes. Many of the boat rides can also be combined with whale watching tours.

Cost: There is a day-use fee of $3 to access the provincial park. Boat tours cost about $240/person for adults. Floatplanes start at about $375/person.

Where to Stay: Tofino has lots of hotels and rental condos.

Hot Springs in the Kootenays

There are tons of hot springs in the Kootenays, many of them in adorable small towns.

Canyon Hot Springs

Canyon Hot Springs are located right along Highway 1 so they make a good road trip pit stop. Unfortunately, I’ve never had time.

The hot springs bubble out of the mountain at a temperture of about 25C. They are piped to the nearby resort where they are heated slightly for better soaking. There are two pools. The family pool is 32C, while the soaking pool is 40C. The resort was built in the 1970s and looks to be showing its age a bit. The pools are only open between May and September.

How to get to Canyon Hot Springs: Canyon Hot Springs is located on Highway 1 in between Mount Revelstoke National Park and Glacier National Park. It’s 33km east of Revelstoke and 116km west of Golden. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: Adults: $16.50, Kids and Seniors: $14.25, Kids 4 and under: free

Where to Stay: Canyon Hot Springs Resort has cabins and camping on site. But you’ll find nicer accommodations in Revelstoke.

Halcyon Hot Springs

Halcyon Hot Springs is on Highway 23 in the West Kootenays. It sits just above the shore of Upper Arrow Lake. The pools at Halcyon Hot Springs are some of the nicest resort-style pools I’ve been to. (Although I have to admit I only stopped in for a look during a trip to Revelstoke and didn’t have time to actually soak.) Built in the early 2000s, the curved pools have an amazing view of the lake and the Monashee Mountains.

On the upper deck, there is a 42C hot pool, a 37C warm pool, and a cold plunge pool. There’s also a lower deck with a 30C warm pool and a children’s spray park. They also have a spa and a restaurant.

How to Get to Halcyon Hot Springs: The springs are located on highway 23 in between Revelstoke and Nakusp. From Revelstoke take Highway 23 south for 70km. The journey includes the free Arrow Lakes ferry, which runs every hour. From Nakusp, take Highway 23 north for 35km. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: $15/person

Where to Stay: Halcyon Hot Springs Resort has cabins and camping on site. You can also stay in Revelstoke, which is about an hour away.

Halfway River Hot Springs

The hot springs at Halfway River are one of my favourite natural hot springs in Canada and one of the reasons I love going to Revelstoke. The springs are near Arrow Lake and Halcyon Hot Springs south of town.

There are several pools lined with river rocks near the rushing Halfway River. There are also a few pools on the edge of the river itself. Some of the pools are really hot, but most are about 42C. If you get too warm, go for a plunge in the river.

The 10-minute walk to the springs from the parking lot is one of my favourite hikes in Revelstoke. You head steeply downhill on switchbacks and stairs. There is an outhouse near the bottom of the stairs and a changing hut right next to the main pools. 

How to Get to Halfway River Hot Springs: These hot springs are located on a gravel road off Highway 23 in between Revelstoke and Nakusp. From the turnoff on Highway 23, it’s 11km of gravel road driving to the parking lot. The road is fine for 2wd vehicles as long as you go slow and avoid the potholes. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: Free

Where to Stay: You can camp on-site either in a car-accessible campground or in walk-in sites that are just steps from the pools. If you prefer something less rustic, the cabins at Halcyon Hot Springs are the closest, or you can book a hotel in Nakusp or Revelstoke.

Nakusp Hot Springs

The Nakusp Hot Springs near the village of Nakusp have the distinction of being the only community-owned hot springs in BC. Unlike other commercially developed springs, these hot springs are the property of the village of Nakusp. There are two outdoor pools: a hot pool at 38-41C and a warm pool at 36-38C.  I’ve never visited this hot spring, but I hear it’s one of the least crowded developed hot springs in BC since it’s not near a major centre. 

How to Get to Nakusp Hot Springs: Nakusp is located on the eastern shore of Arrow Lake along Highway 23. From Nakusp, take Highway 23 north, then turn right onto Hot Springs Road. The springs are 12km up this road. The drive from town takes about 15 minutes. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: Adults: $14; Seniors, Students, and Kids: $13, Kids 5 and under: free

Where to Stay: You can camp right at the springs, or stay in one of their rustic chalets. There are also hotels and motels in the town of Nakusp.

Ainsworth Hot Springs

If you’re visiting Nelson, you HAVE to visit nearby Ainsworth Hot Springs. I went for a soak in the springs right after a 3-day backpacking trip in Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park. So relaxing!

It is one of the most unique hot springs I’ve been to. It’s a commercial hot springs with an outdoor pool for soaking, but the interesting part is the caves!

Okay, so they aren’t true caves, but they are really cool. Early settlers dug tunnels into the rock to try to improve the flow of the springs. The tunnels form an “H” shape with two entrances. Inside the water is hotter than anywhere else at the springs and its REALLY steamy. In a few places, hot water cascades down the walls in mini-waterfalls. There are a couple of carved niches where you can sit and enjoy the sauna-like atmosphere. However, it’s way too hot for me to stay long.

The outdoor pool is 36-38C and the waters in the cave are 40-43C. There is also a cold water plunge pool if you need to cool off. They have a spa as well as a restaurant that serves food sourced from local ingredients and indigenous inspired dishes.

The springs are run by the local Ktunaxa First Nation. They have used the springs for cultural and spiritual purposes since time immemorial. The Ktunaxa name for the hot springs is Nupika wu’u which means “Spirit Waters”.

How to Get to Ainsworth Hot Springs: Ainsworth Hot Springs is located on Highway 31 along the shores of Kootenay Lake. From Nelson, take Highway 3A east, then Highway 31 north. The drive takes about 45 minutes. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: Adults: $18, Seniors: $17, Teens: $15, Kids: $12, Babies 2 and under: Free. Note: You must make advance reservations to use the pools.

Where to Stay: You can book rooms on-site at the Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort. Otherwise, there are lots of hotels in Nelson.

Lussier Hot Springs

Lussier Hot Springs is a natural hot spring in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park near Canal Flats in BC’s East Kootenays. It has beautiful rock-lined pools right next to Lussier Creek. I visited as part of a road trip through the Kootenays and it was one of the highlights of my trip.

The upper pool is the hottest at about 43C. There are also a couple of lower pools that are a bit cooler. When there is less flow in the creek, there are pools right next to the creek too.

To reach the pools you need to walk down a short, but steep trail from the parking lot. There are outhouses at the parking lot but no facilities down at the pools. There is no change house so change in the outhouse or get ready in your car.

How to Get to Lussier Hot Springs: The hot springs are on a gravel road accessed from Highway 93. From Canal Flats, head south on Highway 93 for 5km to the Whiteswan Lake Forest Service Road. It’s a gravel road but unless it is icy or snowy, it should be fine for all vehicles. Follow this road for 17.5km to the hot springs just inside the entrance to Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park. The drive from the highway takes about 20 minutes. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: Free

Where to Stay: There are several campgrounds in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park. There aren’t a lot of hotels in nearby Canal Flats, but there are some cute Airbnbs in the area.

Fairmont Hot Springs

Fairmont Hot Springs is a resort-style hot springs on Highway 93 in the East Kootenays. I haven’t visited these hot springs yet, but I’m sure I’ll visit on my next trip through the area. 

The resort has a hot pool for soaking (39C), a family-friendly swimming pool (32C) and a dive pool (30C) with two diving boards. There’s a spa and several restaurants. If you want to get fancy, you can also book a Miami-style poolside cabana for the day.

If you want to skip the commercialized springs and dip into history, you can take a short hike to the Indian Baths. This 100-year-old stone structure houses small bathtubs fed by the hot springs. It’s also totally free. Find the trailhead in the parking lot.

How to Get to Fairmont Hot Springs: The hot springs are in the village of Fairmont Hot Springs on Highway 93 in the East Kootenays. It’s 23km south of Invermere and 25km north of Canal Flats. From the highway, head east on Fairmont Resort Road for 1.5km to reach the parking lot. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: $17 for adults, $15 for kids and seniors. Kids 5 and under are free.

Where to Stay: Stay on-site at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. They have an RV park and campground too.

Radium Hot Springs

Radium Hot Springs is located in a tight canyon next to Highway 93 at the southern end of Kootenay National Park. There has been a hot spring resort here for over 100 years. The current stone buildings date to the 1950s but underwent a huge renovation in 2023 and 2024.

There are two pools. The hot pool is about 39C. There is a unique island in the middle where the hot water bubbles out. The swimming pool is 27-29C and includes a diving board and slide. The water is the most radioactive in Canada since it contains radium. But the radioactivity is still very, very weak so it won’t harm people. (Don’t worry!)

Getting to Radium Hot Springs: The springs are on Highway 93 just 3 kilometres east of the junction with Highway 95. The village of Radium Hot Springs is right at the junction, but the springs themselves are not. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: Adults: $17.50, Seniors and kids: $15.25, Babies under 3: free

Where to Stay: There are lots of hotels in the nearby village of Radium Hot Springs. Kootenay National Park’s Red Streak Campground is also nearby.

Hot Springs in the Canadian Rocky Mountains

Canada’s Rocky Mountain National Parks like Banff and Jasper are some of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. They also have hot springs.

Banff Upper Hot Springs

There Upper Hot Springs in Banff are the most famous hot springs in Alberta.

I first visited these hot springs during a September road trip over ten years. It started to snow so instead of hanging around the chilly campground, we went for an evening soak in the hot springs instead. Magical! Since then I’ve visited a few more times including a visit in November when it snowed again!

It’s a commercialized pool, but the stone buildings are quite beautiful since they were built in the 1930s. If you want to really get into the vintage vibe, you can rent a heritage swimsuit. The 39C outdoor pool has great views of the surrounding mountains. I loved it in the snow! There’s a cafe too.

How to get to Banff Upper Hot Springs: From downtown Banff take Banff Avenue over the Bow River Bridge. Turn left on Spray Avenue, then take the next right onto Mountain Avenue. Stay on Mountain Avenue until it ends at the Upper Hot Springs. You can also take the Roam bus route 1 since parking is limited. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: Adults: $17.50, Seniors and kids: $15.25, Babies under 3: free

Where to Stay: There are lots of hotels in Banff. The nearest hotel is the Rimrock Resort Hotel which is a 2-minute walk away. My sister used to work there and it’s gorgeous. There are also several national park campgrounds nearby. To save money, consider staying in Canmore, which is a short drive away.

READ NEXT: 9 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Banff in the Fall and Best Things to Do in Banff in the Spring

Miette Hot Springs

Miette Hot Springs is off Highway 16 east of the town of Jasper in Jasper National Park. Besides Banff, it’s one of the only Alberta hot springs. I visited these springs on a chilly fall trip to Jasper. It was a great way to warm up on a cold day.

The spring is one of the hottest springs in the Rockies. It’s 54C at the source, but they cool it down to between 37C and 40C in the pools. There are two warm pools, plus two cold pools. 

The pools and buildings were built in the 1980s and aren’t as picturesque as the other national park hot springs. But the mountain scenery makes up for it. There’s also a cafe if you get hungry.

How to get to Miette Hot Springs: From the town of Jasper, head east on Highway 16 for 43km. Turn right onto Miette Road and drive 16.5km to its end at the hot springs. The drive takes about an hour. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: Adults: $17.50, Seniors and kids: $15.25, Babies under 3: free

Where to Stay: There are lots of hotels in Jasper as well as National Park campgrounds. The closest accommodation to the hot springs are the Pocahontas Cabins and the National Park’s Pocahontas Campground is the closest to the hot springs.

Hot Springs in Northern BC

Northern BC sees a fraction of the tourist traffic that the rest of the province. Which means that you can visit some spectacular hot springs without worrying about crowds.

G̱andll K’in Gwaay.yaay (Hot Spring Island)

G̱andll K’in Gwaay.yaay (Hot Spring Island) is a small island in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve in BC’s Haida Gwaii (formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands). The Haida name for the springs is Gandll K’in Gwaay,yaay, which means “hot water island”.

Historically, there were numerous springs on the southwestern end of the island. But after an earthquake in 2012, the hot springs stopped flowing. Scientists still aren’t sure why. But slowly, the hot water has been returning to the area. In 2017 three new pools were built. There are changerooms and outhouses too.

I visited these springs as part of a four-day tour around Gwaii Hanaas National Park. The water in some of the pools is really hot! But the views are incredible.

How to Get to Hot Spring Island: The only way to get there is by boat, but there are lots of tour operators who will take you. You can also rent kayaks and go on your own if you get a permit from Parks Canada. Most boat trips leave from Moresby Camp on nearby Moresby Island.

Cost: Free, but you do need to pay National Park admission fees

Where to Stay: The closest hotels are in the village of Daajing Giis (Queen Charlotte). You can also camp at Moresby Camp.

Higu Isgwit (Nass Valley) Hot Springs

These hot springs are located in Nisga’a First Nation territory near Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Provincial Park. Since they are located in the Nass River Valley, they are also known as Nass Valley Hot Springs. In the Nisga’a language, they are called Hlgu Isgwit Hot Springs. This is a culturally and spiritually important site for the Nisga’a so be respectful if you visit. 

It’s a short 5-minute hike on a boardwalk across a marshy area to reach the springs. There’s a large pool with wooden decking and recently the area has been improved by adding a couple of wooden sided tubs. The springs are about 55C, which is too hot for most. Thankfully, there are pipes with cold water you can add to adjust the temperature. There’s an outhouse in the parking lot and a small change house next to the springs.

Visiting these Nisga’s Nation-run springs was one of the highlights of my two-day visit to the Nass Valley. We also hiked to a volcano, walked through lava, visited a great Indigenous museum, and lots more.

How to Get to Higu Isgwit Hot Springs: From Terrace, BC, drive north on the Nisga’a Highway for 96km. Turn left on Nass Road and follow it for 19km. Look for the signed parking area. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: $8 for adults, $5 for children. You need to reserve a one-hour spot in advance by calling 250-633-3000.

Where to Stay: The closest major centre is the town of Terrace, which has lots of hotels. You can also camp in the provincial park or stay at a bed and breakfast in the nearby village of New Aiyansh or in Nisga’a-run B&Bs in the Nass Valley.

Liard River Hot Springs

Without a doubt, Liard River Hot Springs is the best hot springs I’ve ever visited. That includes visits to hot springs in Canada as well as ones in Iceland and Nepal. This beautiful hot spring is on the Alaska Highway in Northern BC. It’s actually closer to the Yukon border than to any town in British Columbia.

The hot springs are in a natural setting, but the provincial park has improved the pools to add a gravel bottom and some wooden decking. A small waterfall separates the upper pool from the lower pool, which is much more rustic and still has natural earthen sides. The upper pool is hotter, about 52C at the source, and the lower pool is cooler at about 42C. There is a change house next to the pools and composting toilets nearby.

To reach the pools you’ll walk for about 600m on boardwalk across a marsh. Keep an eye out for moose along the way. We spotted one every time we walked to the pools. The park is also an important habitat for bison and you may see them on the highway nearby or even in the campground.

How to Get to Liard River Hot Springs: From Fort Nelson, BC drive 305km north on Highway 97 (the Alaska Highway). The drive takes about 4 hours. From Watson Lake, Yukon Territory, drive 208km south on Highway 97. It’s a 3-hour drive. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: $5 for adults, $3 for children

Where to Stay: Stay at the provincial park campground since it’s closest to the pools. Plus access to the hot springs is included in your camping fees. If you prefer a hotel, there’s a lodge on the other side of the highway.

Hot Springs in the Yukon

There is only one hot spring in the Yukon: Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs.

Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs

This hot spring used to be called Takini Hot Springs, which I visited on a trip to the Yukon back in 2015. The pool and facilities have been completely rebuilt and in 2022 they reopened as Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs.

The new facility is an upgrade over the old concrete pool. I haven’t visited yet but looks really beautiful. There are three pools with a Japanese design that integrates rocks into the pool for lounging and reclining. The largest pool even has a waterfall. The water temperature ranges from 42 to 36C. 

There are also indoor relaxation rooms with heated tile loungers, cold plunges, showers, saunas, and steam rooms.

How to get to Eclipse Hot Springs: From Whitehorse, drive Highway 1 west to the junction with Highway 2. Follow Highway 2 north for 6km. Turn left onto Takhini Hot Springs road and follow it for 9km to the springs. The entire trip takes about 30 minutes. Here are Google Maps driving directions.

Cost: $60

Where to Stay: There’s a large campground and a hotel on-site, which is really convenient. Or you can book a hotel in Whitehorse.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: 19 of the best hot springs in Canada. So far, I’ve visited ten of them.

My favourite commercial hot spring is Ainsworth Hot Springs. Liard River Hot Springs is my favourite natural hot springs. When it comes to free hot springs, for me, it’s a bit of a tie between Lussier and Halfway River Hot Springs. And G̱andll K’in Gwaay.yaay (Hot Spring Island) in Haida Gwaii is special since its so remote.

What’s your favourite? Tell me in the comments.

More Adventures in Canada:

• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures
• 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler
• 15 Things to do in Revelstoke in the Summer
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler
• 37 Things to do in Whistler in Winter
• The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route on Vancouver Island
• Chasing Waterfalls in Wells Gray Provincial Park
• 20+ Beautiful Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip
• The Best Canadian Adventure Books
• Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway

The post How to Visit the Best Hot Springs in Canada appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

There’s something for everyone on this list from city-breaks to beach town chill-outs, to adventurous mountain towns, to foodie destinations, to luxurious glamping.

Since, I’m an outdoorsy person, most of the trips have an adventure focus, but there are lots of options for less sweaty activities too. All of these trips are a few hours away, and some of them you can do without a car.

So here are my picks for the most beautiful weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Map of Weekend Getaways From Vancouver

Here’s a custom Google Map I made for you. It shows all of these beautiful weekend getaways from Vancouver, plus a few of the attractions, restaurants and attractions that I recommend.

Bowen Island

Tiny Bowen Island is just minutes from Vancouver but feels worlds apart. This Howe Sound island is mostly forested, with lots of small beaches, which makes it a great place for kayaking and hiking. My favourite spot is Cape Roger Curtis on the west side of the island.

The village of Snug Cove at the ferry dock has a few restaurants to choose from, but the pizza at Tuscany Restaurant is amazing. If you have a sweet tooth, check out Cocoa West Chocolatier for incredible handmade chocolates. Yoga and meditation are also really popular here, with several retreats on the island. 

My guide to Bowen Island has lots of other suggestions for great things to do.

Where to Stay on Bowen Island

Artisan Suites: This all-suite hotel is located in Artisan Square just a few minutes from the ferry terminal. It’s the in same complex as tons of cute boutiques and Cocoa West Chocolatier. Check rates.

Cabin Rentals: There are lots of really cute cabins on Bowen Island for rent. The Wildwood Cabins are gorgeously rustic and get amazing reviews. Check rates.

Squamish

For the last three years I’ve lived in Squamish, known as the adventure capital of Canada and one of the best small towns in Canada. It sits at the head of Howe Sound sandwiched between mountain ranges. It has world-class hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and kiteboarding.

For less heart-pumping adventures, ride the Sea to Sky Gondola up to a gorgeous mountain viewpoint, visit Shannon Falls, or swim at one of the lakes. My list of the best things to do in Squamish includes lots more recommendations.

Where to Stay in Squamish

Sunwolf Riverside Cabins: We stayed in these adorable cabins on a winter trip to Squamish. Bonus: Fergie’s Restaurant is on the property so getting the best breakfast in town is easy! Check rates.

Executive Suites Hotel: This all-suite hotel has great access to hiking and biking trails and is my number 1 pick on my list of the best hotels in Squamish. Check rates.

Alice Lake Provincial Park: This large campground is on my list of the best campgrounds in Squamish. It has a great swimming lake and lots of trails. Check availability.

READ NEXT: Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler

Whistler

Whistler is a great weekend trip from Vancouver at any time of year. In the summer you can ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola up the mountain for amazing views, go swimming in the lakes, stroll through the village, or hit up the famous mountain bike trails. One of the main reasons I love Whistler is because it has some of the best hiking trails around.

In the winter you can downhill ski and snowboard of course, but there are also has plenty of beautiful snowshoeing trails. Read my guide to the best things to do in Whistler in winter for even more ideas.

READ NEXT: 80+ Things to Do in Whistler (By a Local)

Where to Stay in Whistler

The Westin Resort and Spa: If you want to splurge, this is the place. My now-husband took me here to impress me when we were first dating. Check rates.

Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel: Apartment-style suite hotels are really popular in Whistler. This one is right in the village and gets great reviews. Check rates.

Camping: My guide to camping in Whistler has details for 18 campgrounds near Whistler.

READ NEXT: 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler

Pemberton

Pemberton often gets overshadowed by Whistler, its flashier neighbour to the south. But Pemberton makes a great weekend getaway from Vancouver. It’s a chill, small town surrounded by mountains with lots of hiking and mountain biking trails. (Nearby Joffre Lakes is gorgeous.)

But it also has a strong farming and ranching history. Head to North Arm Farm for u-pick berries, a produce stand, and a cafe. Or book a horseback ride – Pemberton has more horses per capita than any other place in BC!

Where to Stay in Pemberton

Pemberton Valley Lodge: Highly rated all-suite hotel near downtown Pemberton and an easy walk to the One Mile Lake trails. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are lots of cute cabins and tiny houses for rent near Pemberton. This cabin the woods is luxe but rustic and has a hot tub. Check Rates.

Sechelt and the South Sunshine Coast

Sechelt is located on the Sunshine Coast, a short ferry ride from Vancouver, making it the perfect weekend trip. Make sure you also check out the nearby villages of Gibsons, Roberts Creek, and Halfmoon Bay. There are tons of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. But lots of people prefer to book a stay at a cabin or resort with a water view, then just chill out.

The Sechelt area is also an emerging destination for foodies and artisans with weekend farmer’s markets in Sechelt, Gibsons, and Roberts Creek. With lots of new craft breweries, distilleries, cider houses popping up, the area now has its own Sunshine Coast Ale Trail. My husband loves the beer at Persephone Brewing near the Langdale ferry terminal.

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do in Sechelt

Where to Stay in Sechelt and the South Sunshine Coast

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort: This one has is special for me since it’s where I got engaged! The luxury tent cabins are unreal and worth the splurge! Check Rates.

Cabins: There are tons of cute cabins for rent on the Sunshine Coast. This cute cabin in Madeira Park has its own private beach! Check Rates.

Powell River and the North Sunshine Coast

Sleepy Powell River is a bit more off the beaten path than Sechelt to the South. It’s a logging town with tons of outdoor adventure possibilities. The 180km-long Sunshine Coast Trail runs through the outskirts of town, making Powell River a great jumping-off point for day hikes if you don’t have time for the whole thing.

The historic downtown is home to Townsite Brewing. On my last visit, we spent a fun couple of hours there tasting beer before heading to Costa del Sol in downtown Powell River for some tasty Mexican food. Don’t miss a trip to the cute village of Lund 30 minutes north of Powell River. Head to Nancy’s Bakery on the waterfront to get one of the famous cinnamon buns.

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do on the North Sunshine Coast, BC

Where to Stay in Powell River and the North Sunshine Coast

The Magical Dome: This quirky rental cabin near Lund looks like a hobbit house. It has been on my list for a long time! Check rates.

Cabins: These glamping pods have incredible views and are right on the beach in Seal Bay. Check rates.

Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is a small resort community in the Fraser Valley. The main attraction is the hot springs, which are piped into a series of pools at the Harrison Hotsprings Resort as well to a public community pool. (Did you know we have lots of other amazing hot springs in Canada?)

I also love it as a winter destination for cozy cabin time and chill hiking. But the best part about visiting in winter is the eagles – you can see hundreds of bald eagles at once in nearby Harrison Mills.

And it’s less than an hour away, making it one of the closer weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Where to Stay in Harrison Hot Springs

Sandpiper Resort: I loved my stay in the cabins at this cute riverside property in Harrison Mills. Check rates.

Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa: Staying at this hotel gets you exclusive entrance to their deluxe hot springs pools. Book now.

Bramblebank Cottages: Cute cabins with a hot tub, fire pit, and canoes. Check rates.

Fraser Canyon

The Fraser Canyon is a off-the-beaten-path, literally. Since the Coquihalla Highway was built in the 1980s, a tiny fraction of the traffic between Vancouver and BC’s Interior goes along Highway 1 past Hope to Lytton.

The Fraser Canyon makes a great short road trip with beautiful hikes, lots of viewpoints, historic sites, and quirky, old tourist attractions like the Hell’s Gate Airtram. My Fraser Canyon road trip guide has lots more recommendations.

Where to Stay in the Fraser Canyon

Windsor Motel: I spent two nights at this recently renovated hotel in Hope. It is basic, but super clean and affordable. The location in downtown Hope made it easy to walk to shopping and dinner. Plus, it was quiet at night. Check prices.

Kumsheen Rafting Resort: I arrived early for my river rafting trip, so I walked around their campground just outside of Lytton. They have really cute teepees and glamping tents with real beds and amazing Fraser River views. I would definitely stay here next time I’m in the area. Check prices.

Manning Park

E.C. Manning Provincial Park is one of BC’s most popular parks. In the winter it has a ski resort and lots of snowshoeing trails. In the summer it’s one of my favourite places to hike with kilometre upon kilometre of wildflower meadows.

You can also go canoeing on Lightning Lakes, walk nature trails, and spot wildlife. The ground squirrels are particularly cute. The resort has cabins and a restaurant, so you don’t have to rough it.

Where to Stay in Manning Park

Manning Park Resort: The only lodging in the heart of the park, they have cute cabins and a pool. Check rates.

Manning Provincial Park: There are four campgrounds in the park, but the nicest sites are at Lightning Lake. Check availability.

Parksville

Parksville is a beach town just north of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. With kilometres of sandy beaches, it’s one of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver. In summer they have an incredible sandcastle competition.

And there are gorgeous waterfalls if you head inland: check out Englishman River Falls and Little Qualicum Falls. The quirky Old Country Market in Coombs is also a short drive away. (It’s the place that famously has goats on the roof!)

Where to Stay in Parksville

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Resort: I know people who return to this beachfront resort year after year. Their Grotto Spa also looks really cool. Check Rates.

The Beach Club Resort: Located right on the beach and an easy walk to the shops and restaurants in Parksville. Check Rates.

Tofino

Tofino on Vancouver Island’s West Coast is a popular weekend getaway from Vancouver and one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures. Explore the long sandy beaches, go for a hike in the lush rainforest, or hit the waves at Canada’s most famous surf spot.

While you might think of a beach town as a place to visit in the summer, I actually prefer visiting Tofino in winter. It’s quieter and more affordable. And the storm watching is really cool.

If you’re looking to get a bit off the beaten path, head a bit south to the neighbouring town of Ucluelet, which is much quieter and just as cute. Or take a water taxi to the old-growth trees on  Meares Island or the sandy beaches of the Wild Side Trail on Flores Island.

Don’t miss the Tacofino food truck for some of the best tacos in BC. If you’re looking for sit down dinner, head to Shelter Restaurant. My husband and I had a great dinner there for our anniversary a few years ago.

Where to Stay in Tofino

Ocean Village: These adorable gothic-arched cabins are right on the water at Mackenzie Beach. Check Rates.

Island Village at Fred Tibbs: We stayed at these waterfront condos on a recent trip. They’re right downtown Tofino so you can walk everywere. Check Rates.

Southern Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands are a group of over 200 small islands between Vancouver Island the mainland of British Columbia. Each island has its own personality, but they all offer beautiful ocean views, beaches, forest hikes, farmer’s markets, and artisan studios.

Saltspring is the largest and most populated island, so it has the most things to do. Galiano is a bit smaller and a little more sleepy. Pender, Mayne, and Saturna have fewer shops, restaurants, and services than Saltspring and Galiano, so do a bit of research before you go to find out what’s available. 

READ NEXT: Four Outdoor Adventures on Galiano Island

Where to Stay on the Gulf Islands

Poets Cove Resort and Spa: I stayed at this waterfront resort on Pender Island once for a wedding and it’s gorgeous! Check Rates.

Cabins: Over the years we’ve stayed at some great cabins on Saltspring and Galiano Island. This log cabin on Galiano has a killer cliff top view. Check Rates.

Victoria

Victoria is British Columbia’s capital city, but it’s not a stodgy government town. It has a beautiful harbour, interesting museums, historic buildings, a foodie scene, and easy access to beaches and trails. I’ve visited Victoria countless times because I have several good friends who live there.

One of my favourite things to do in Victoria is to bike the flat, scenic, and quiet Lochside and Galloping Goose trails. I also love walking in Beacon Hill Park or along the Waterfront Trail on Dallas Road.

For indoor activities, I like the Royal British Columbia Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Victoria’s compact downtown also is a great place to shop. I can’t go to Victoria without going to the fabulous Silk Road Tea store. If you want amazing baking, head to Fol Epi in Vic West. The croissants are sooo good.

Where to Stay in Victoria

Abbeymoore Manor: I’ve stayed at this historic B&B a few times since my friends used to live around the corner. It’s a beautiful house. And breakfast is included! Check rates.

Hotel Zed: This renovated motel has an amazing and photogenic retro vibe. It looks like an awesome place to stay on a budget. Check Rates.

Pacific Marine Circle Route

The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a 260km-long loop road trip on Southern Vancouver Island. It’s the perfect length to drive over a weekend. The route starts and finishes in Victoria.

The first half of the route travels along the coast past Sooke. You can stop for hikes in the rainforest, waterfalls, or visits to wilderness beaches. Spend the night in Port Renfrew, my favourite small town, and visit Avatar Grove, home of Canada’s tallest trees and the starting point for the famous West Coast Trail.

On the second half of the route, drive inland past more giant trees to Lake Cowichan and the farms in the Cowichan Valley. Finish the trip by heading back to Victoria along the Malahat Highway.

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route

Where to Stay on the Pacific Marine Circle Route

Wild Renfrew: We stayed at these gorgeous waterfront cabins in Port Renfrew. They even have patios with fire pits. Check Rates.

Prestige Oceanfront Resort: A luxury resort right on the water in Sooke and a short drive to lots of the sights on the southern side of the Pacific Marine Circle Route. Check rates.

Kamloops

I have family in Kamloops, so I’ve spent a lot of time in the area. It has an incredible network of hiking and mountain biking trails, many of which are right in the city. Sun Peaks Resort is also nearby, with its great hiking and mountain biking in summer and skiing in winter. The beaches along the riverfront are a great place to go for a swim or head out of town to the nearby lakes.

Kamloops has also gotten into the craft beer scene lately, with five breweries and two taphouses in town. With its sunny climate, a weekend in Kamloops can be just what you need to escape the rains in Vancouver in spring and fall. 

Where to Stay in Kamloops

Fairfield Inn and Suites: I’ve stayed at this hotel a few times recently while visiting family. It’s a newer hotel so the rooms are really nice, but the prices are quite reasonable. Plus it includes breakfast. Check Rates.

Sandman Signature Kamloops Hotel: This new hotel has a fabulous location right on the riverfront. Check rates.

The Okanagan

The Okanagan is a big region, stretching from Sicamous in the north to Osoyoos in the south. Several lakes run through the middle of the valley, perfect for boating and with great beaches. Explore some of the cute small towns like Vernon and Penticton or check out the many things to do in Kelowna.

The hot and dry climate is also ideal for orchards and vineyards. There are over 200 wineries to visit, but I like the smaller organic ones near Summerland, which are easy to visit by bike. Don’t miss everything apple at Davison Orchards – it’s one of the best things to do in Vernon.

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail runs through the Okanagan. It’s easy biking, especially on an e-bike, and has great views of the lakes and vineyards. My favourite sections are are in Penticton (there’s a tunnel!) and Vernon.

Where to Stay in the Okanagan

Penticton Lakeside Resort: Great rooms right on the lake in downtown Penticton. Walking distance to the beach, kayaking, farmer’s market, breweries, etc. Check Rates.

Predator Ridge Resort: This resort has a great ridge-top location with great hiking and mountain biking trails and restaurants on site. Check rates.

Hotel Zed: Like their sister location in Victoria, this budget motel in Kelowna has an incredible retro look. Check Rates.

Wells Gray Provincial Park

Wells Gray Provincial Park is located in British Columbia’s interior north of Kamloops near the town of Clearwater. It’s a huge park with giant lakes and lots of hiking trails. But it is famous for its waterfalls. There are 8 waterfalls easily accessible from the main park road, plus dozens more in the backcountry. Don’t miss 141m-high Helmcken Falls. It’s the 4th-tallest waterfall in Canada.

The park is in ranch country, so if you want to live like a cowboy, there are tons of lodges nearby where you can go horseback riding or have a cook-out. Wells Gray is definitely one of the best under-the-radar weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Where to Stay in Wells Gray

Nakiska Ranch: This Western-style property has great cowboy vibes since it is located on a working ranch. Check Rates.

Across the Creek Cabins: These cute cabins are nestled in the forest inside the park. Book now

Revelstoke

Revelstoke is the ultimate Canadian small town: it has world-class mountain biking, incredible hiking, skiing, and paragliding from the highest launch in North America. I liked it so much I went two years in row. It also has one of my favourite things: hot springs! There are several hot springs a near town, including the gorgeous undeveloped Halfway River Hot Springs.

Revelstoke also has a surprisingly robust culinary scene for such a small town with a little farmers markets, great restaurants, micro-breweries, and not one but TWO distilleries! Check out my guides to things to do in Revelstoke, the best hikes in Revelstoke, and the best things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park to plan your trip. 

Where to Stay in Revelstoke

The Regent Hotel: We stayed at this somewhat upscale, family-run hotel on our first trip to Revelstoke. It was nice without being pretentious. Check Rates.

Boulder Mountain Resort: I spent two nights at these adorable cabins just outside of Revelstoke last summer. They even come with fleece robes! Check Rates.

Bellingham, Washington

Bellingham, Washington is more than a place to do some cross-border shopping or buy cheap groceries. It’s actually a cute college town on the ocean with a historic district called Fairhaven. Bellingham is also a craft beer haven with 16 micro-breweries, many of which are gastro-pubs as too.

One of the best things to do is cruise along Chuckanut Drive, a twisty road along the coast through the forest with some great views. There are also lots of hiking and mountain bike trails, quiet country roads for road biking, and kayaking in sheltered bays of Puget Sound.

Where to Stay in Bellingham, Washington

Hotel Leo: The rooms at this downtown hotel have really cool modern decor. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are lots of cute rentals in Bellingham and on Chuckanut Drive. This waterfront cottage has beach access. Check Rates.

Whidbey Island and Deception Pass, Washington

Tucked into the north end of Puget Sound, the Deception Pass area is strikingly beautiful: tiny tree-covered islands, swirling currents, and sea cliffs. I love hiking in Deception Pass State Park or enjoying the view from the famous bridge.

Long and narrow Whidbey Island has lots of other pretty spots too including Ebey’s Landing, WWII era defences at Fort Ebey and Fort Casey, wineries, farmers markets, whale watching tours, and sleepy historic towns. 

Where to Stay in Whidbey Island and Deception Pass, Washington

Captain Whidbey Inn: This historic house is now an amazing B&B right on the water near Coupeville. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are tons of vacation rentals on Whidbey Island. Lots of them are right on the water too. This beach house has a great view. Check Rates.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a gorgeous city, sitting between the waters of Puget Sound and the snowy peak of Mount Rainier. Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, the world’s first Starbucks, and the Museum of Pop Culture are all must-sees. Lots of visitors on a weekend getaway from Vancouver take in Seahawks football game too.

To get a bit more off-the-beaten-path, I recommend the Underground Tour, where you’ll learn a bit about the city while walking through historic underground tunnels.

This is also a great car-free getaway. It’s easy to take the bus from Vancouver to Seattle, and once you’re there, you can walk or take public transit.

Where to stay in Seattle

Ace Hotel: This hipster spot is in Belltown, a trendy neighbourhood close to downtown. Check Rates.

Vacation Rentals: Seattle can be a pricey city, but you can usually find good deals on rental apartments. This cool loft is right downtown. Check Rates.

Book a Cozy Cabin

Spend the weekend chilling out in nature at a cozy cabin. There are tons of adorable cabin rentals near Vancouver. Wake up deep in the forest, high in a treehouse, right beside the ocean, or in a luxury glamping tent.

I’ve stayed in a bunch of beautiful cabins – check them out on my list of the best cabins near Vancouver.

Go Camping

One of the cheapest ways to go on a weekend getaway from Vancouver is to go camping. There are lots of amazing camping spots fairly close to town. You can camp on a lake, by the ocean, or in the mountains. However, camping is popular so make a reservation in advance to make sure you get a spot. Below are some of my suggestions for the best campgrounds near Vancouver.

I’ve got a whole post with a big list of over 40 places to go camping near Vancouver. It includes options in the Sea to Sky, Fraser Valley, near Hope, in Washington State, and reachable via a short ferry on the Sunshine Coast, Gulf Islands, and Vancouver Island.

Final Thoughts

With over 20 weekend trips from Vancouver on this list, I’m sure you’ll find one to add to your list. What is your favourite weekend getaway from Vancouver? Tell me in the comments.

More posts you’ll like:

• Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
• Camping Near Vancouver, BC: 40+ Best Campgrounds
• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures
• Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip

The post 23 Weekend Getaways from Vancouver appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve lived in the Vancouver area my whole life and have stayed at tons of cabins over the years. Here are my favourite cabin rentals for a weekend getaway from Vancouver. I’ve included options in the Sea to Sky, Sunshine Coast, Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island, Okanagan, and Interior. I’ve also got cabins in Washington state just over the border.

I’ve stayed at a bunch of these and the rest are definitely on my cabin vacation wish list!

Where do you want to go?

• Vancouver-area cabins
• Sea to Sky cabins
• Bowen Island and Sunshine Coast cabins
• Gulf Island cabins
• Vancouver Island cabins
• BC Interior and Okanagan cabins
• Washington cabins

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

Vancouver-Area Cabins

You don’t have to go far from the city to find adorable cabins near Vancouver. You can stay on the ocean, on a lake, on a river, or in a log cabin. Here are my picks for the best Vancouver cabins.

Sandpiper Resort, Harrison

The cabins at Sandpiper Resort have incredible hygge vibes. I stayed in one of their classic rustic cabins. It had a huge stone fireplace and an incredible view of the river. During my late November stay we watched hundreds of bald eagles feast on salmon in the river.

The resort also has some newer, more modern cabins. Some of them even have Japanese-style ofuro soaking tubs on the patio.

Check availability.

Sasquatch Mountain Log Cabin, Harrison

This gorgeous log cabin is located at Sasquatch Mountain Resort. It’s a great spot for a ski vacation in the winter, but in the summer you can go hiking, enjoy the views, or just chill out. There’s a big fireplace, lots of games, and a BBQ too.

Check availability

Cabin on the Mighty Fraser River, Hope

Find this rustic cabin on the banks of the Fraser River just north of Hope. It has great views of the surrounding mountains and the owners say it’s common to see wildlife on the banks of the river including bear, deer, eagles, and otters.

Check availability

More Vancouver Area Cabins

• Deep Cove Retreat: Sunny cottage with loft in North Vancouver’s Deep Cove neighbourhood.
• The Nest Tiny Home: Beautiful scandi-style tiny home on Sumas Mountain in Abbotsford.
• Bramblebank Cottages: Adorable cluster of cottages in Harrison Hot Springs.
• Camperland Bridal Falls Resort and Cabins: Cute cabins at the campground in Bridal Falls, between Chilliwack and Hope.
• Check out my guide to the best places to camp near Vancouver.

Sea to Sky Cabins

The Sea to Sky corridor is a great place for a weekend getaway – I liked it so much I moved to Squamish three years ago! There are lots of cabins in Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton to choose from. And the drive up there makes a great road trip from Vancouver. (Read my Sea to Sky Highway guide for full details.)

Here are my picks for the best Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton cabins:

Porteau Cove Olympic Cabins, Lions Bay

These adorable log cabins in Porteau Cove were built as a legacy project from the 2010 Olympics. They are located next to the ocean in Porteau Cove Provincial Park. It’s a great spot to soak in the ocean views from the beach during the day or star gaze at night.

Check availability

Sunwolf Riverside Cabins, Squamish

These charming cabins in the Brackendale neighbourhood of Squamish are super cozy with fireplaces and the sound of the rushing river right outside your door. My hometown of Squamish is one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures and these cute cabins make a great base for hiking, biking, or snowshoeing adventures.

Bonus: Squamish’s best brunch spot, Fergie’s is also on site. This is definitely one of my favourite cabins near Vancouver and I have fond memories of a winter trip a few years before I moved to Squamish.

Check availability

READ NEXT: The Best Hikes in Squamish, BC (From a Local)

READ NEXT: 70+ Things to do in Squamish (By a Local)

Riverside Resort, Whistler

Riverside Resort is one of the best places to camp in Whistler. But they also have adorable log cabins and cute little yurts. The yurts are nestled in the forest right next to the rushing waters of Fitzsimmons Creek. The resort is a right on the Valley Trail, a multi-use paved trail for biking or walking that leads everywhere in Whistler.

Check availability

READ NEXT: The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails

READ NEXT: 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler

More Sea to Sky Cabins

• West Coast Modern Cabin: Beautiful post and beam cabin with views in Britannia Beach.
• Waterfront Cottage: Three bedroom cabin on secluded Levette Lake near Squamish.
• Squamish Valley Cottage: Cute cottage on a private acreage near the Squamish River.
• Curtisy Cottage: Retro A-frame cabin near Alta Lake in Whistler.
• Check out my guides to the best places to camp near Squamish and the best places to camp near Whistler.

Bowen Island Cabins

Bowen Island is a short ferry ride away from West Vancouver, which makes it a perfect weekend cabin getaway. (Use my guide to find the best things to do on Bowen Island.) Here are my picks for the best cabins on Bowen Island:

• Evergreen Cottage: Two bedroom cabin with a view hat is walking distance from the ferry terminal.
• Hummingbird Hut: Adorable vaulted ceiling cabin with a wall of windows and nearby hiking.
• Woodlands Cabin: Cute and modern cabin with a fire table and big deck.

Sunshine Coast Cabins

The Sunshine Coast is easy to get to, but has a completely different feel than nearby Vancouver. With ocean views and a West Coast rainforest setting, staying in a cabin on the Sunshine Coast is the perfect way to spend a chill weekend. (Use my guide to find the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast).

Read on for my picks for the best cabins in the Gibsons, Sechelt, Halfmoon Bay, Pender Harbour, and Powell River areas.

Rockwater Secret Cove Cabins, Halfmoon Bay

Rockwater Secret Cove Oceanside Resort has rustic timber cabins and luxurious tent cabins linked by gorgeous wooden boardwalks through the forest. With a spa and fine dining restaurant on-site, it makes a great romantic getaway. (I should know: I got engaged there!)

Check availability

Moon Dance Cabin, Pender Harbour

The cute Moon Dance cabin is right on the water in the Madeira Park neighbourhood of Pender Harbour. The loft bedroom feels a bit like a treehouse, surrounded by forest. There’s a great soaker tub too. Enjoy great views from the deck or try out some of the nearby hikes.

Check availability

The Stonewater, Maderia Park

Tucked into the forest in the Maderia Park neighbourhood of the lower Sunshine Coast, The Stonewater has just added four adorable tiny-home style cabins to their resort. Each little A-frame has a cozy queen bed and skylights that are perfect for star gazing. They also have a spa on site with a cedar hot tub, barrel sauna, and cold plunge pool.

Check availability.

Backeddy Resort, Egmont

The Backeddy Resort is tucked away in the tiny village of Egmont, which is the starting point for the must-do hike to the rapids of Skookumchuck Narrows. The resort has a mix of accommodation options including waterfront cabins and bucketlist-worthy geodesic domes.

Check availability

Magical Dome, Lund

A stay at this unique dome house has been on my wish list for a long time. The Magical Dome in Lund is a rustic cedar dome-shaped house set in the rainforest near the Sunshine Coast Trail. The interior is full of quirky spaces, railings made of branches, and the cutest loft bedroom.

Check availability

More Sunshine Coast Cabins

• Halfmoon Haven: Beachfront cottage in Halfmoon Bay with lots of outdoor space.
• The Aerie: A modern treehouse in Halfmoon Bay with tons of windows and a hot tub.
• Frolander Bay Tiny Cottages: A cluster of tiny homes with a hot tub near the beach just outside Powell River.
• Rustic Cedar Cabin: Beautiful window-filled cedar planked cabin near Powell River.

Gulf Islands Cabins

The Gulf Islands are a handful of islands sprinkled in the Strait of Georgia between the mainland and Vancouver Island. Each has its own laid-back personality and they all make an ideal weekend getaway. With so many Gulf Islands cabins to choose from, it can be hard to pick.

But let me help you out – my favourite cabins on the Gulf Islands are below.

The Cottages on Salt Spring Island

These lakeside cottages are rustic yet luxe with cozy kitchens and big bathrooms. Each cottage has a patio with a great view of the lake. The Cottages on Salt Spring Island are just outside the town of Ganges, which makes it easy to head over to the farmers market, restaurants, and cute boutiques.

Check availability

Ocean View Cabin, Pender Island

Watch for whales from the deck of this ocean view cabin high on the cliffs above Swanson Channel on Pender Island. It has incredible views of the ocean, the mountains of Vancouver Island, and the ferries cruising past on their way to Victoria. There’s a hot tub too!

Check availability

More Gulf Islands Cabins

• Orchard Cabin: Quaint cottage with a loft near the town of Ganges on Saltspring Island.
• Cozy 2 Bedroom Cabin: Rustic cabin on North Pender Island near Gulf Islands National Park.

Vancouver Island Cabins

Vancouver Island is known around the world for its rugged beauty and gorgeous coastline. Head to the West Coast to stay in a cabin in Tofino or Ucluelet. Drive the Pacific Marine Circle Route to adorable cottages in Sooke or Port Renfrew. Or chill out at a resort cabin in Parksville with a spa on site. You’ll love each of my choices for the best cabins on Vancouver Island.

Owl’s Perch Treehouse, Sooke

This is one of the most unique cabins on Vancouver Island – it’s a treehouse! The cabin is attached to four huge trees! Sleeping in the cozy loft bedroom is like sleeping in the forest canopy. There is also a huge deck for relaxing and forest bathing without leaving the cabin.

Check availability

Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages, Port Renfrew

I stayed at the gorgeous Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages on my Pacific Marine Circle Route road trip. They are right on the water and have cozy fire pits that make a great place to relax after exploring nearby Avatar Grove – the old-growth cedars are giant! (The covered decks are great for rainy days.)

Check availability

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort, Parksville

The cozy log cabins at Tigh-Na-Mara are set in a gorgeous forest a short walk from a beautiful sandy beach. The famous Grotto Spa is onsite for massages or a relaxing soak in the mineral pool. It’s easy to see why these are some of the most popular cabins on Vancouver Island.

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Peace Cabin, Ucluelet

Friends of mine own this Scandi-style cabin. It is nestled in the woods has seriously relaxing vibes. The window-filled space is tucked into the rainforest near Ucluelet, so it feels like you’re outside even when you’re inside.

Peace Cabin has everything you need to chill out: a full kitchen, board games, a BBQ, and a covered deck with an outdoor fireplace. But the town of Ucluelet and the trails of Pacific Rim National Park are just a few minutes away.

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Mackenzie Beach Resort, Tofino

I recently spent a long weekend staying in an adorable tiny house at Mackenzie Beach Resort in Tofino during a winter visit to Tofino – my fave time to go. The tiny house was cozy and had everything we needed. There was even a big patio with an outdoor shower, which I used after we went surfing.

They also have really cool restored vintage Airstream trailers you can stay in. The resort property was great with an on-site cafe. And it is right on Mackenzie Beach.

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Ocean Village, Tofino

Tofino is one of Canada’s best outdoor adventure small towns for surfing, beaches, hiking, and more. Ocean Village in Tofino is a group of charming beehive-shaped cabins right on Mackenzie Beach in Tofino. Built in 1976, this is Tofino’s original oceanfront resort.

The rustic cabins have modern upgrades but still have a retro vibe. They’re also committed to sustainability with on-demand hot water and recycling and composting programs. It’s a great place for a Vancouver Island cabin getaway.

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Brown’s Bay Resort, Campbell River

Brown’s Bay Resort is just north of Campbell River. It’s right on the water and has a mix of cabins, glamping tents, and campsites. It even has a floating restaurant. It’s a great location for fishing and the famous Ripple Rock hike is a few minutes away.

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More Vancouver Island Cabins

• Lakefront Cabin: Huge A-frame with tons of windows and beachfront on Lake Cowichan.
• 100-Year-Old Farm Cottage: Adorable vintage cottage near the beach near Nanaimo.
• The Cabins at Terrace Beach: Gorgeous high-end cabins in Ucluelet.
• Tofino Surf Cabin: Cute cabin with a surf theme tucked into the old growth forest.

Interior and Okanagan Cabins

BC’s Interior has many different sides. Book a cabin in the Okanagan wine country to enjoy vineyard views and lakes. Or head to a cabin Wells Gray Park or Manning Park for great hiking or snowshoeing. Mountain bikers, skiers, and hikers should book a cabin in Revelstoke – it’s my favourite BC mountain town. Here are my picks for the best cabins in the Okanagan and BC’s Interior.

Manning Park Resort, Manning Park

In the summer, hike right from your front door. When the snow falls, snowshoe or cross-country ski next to the cabin. Manning Park is a short drive from Vancouver and the Manning Park Resort has lots of cute cabins.

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Utopia Feels Botanical Glampground, Vernon

Located just outside Vernon, Utopia Feels Botanical Glampground is an incredible escape. Sleep in a luxurious glamping tent on the grounds of a sustainable micro-farm that includes lots of mature trees and farm animals.

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READ NEXT: 30+ Things to Do in Vernon, BC

Tin Poppy Cabin, Salmon Arm

Get off the grid at the Tin Poppy Cabin in the Larch Hills outside of Salmon Arm. The cabin is actually a converted travel trailer decked out in retro style and fueled by solar power. Enjoy the views from the huge screened-in porch or go mountain biking or fishing nearby.

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Cedar Haven Resort, Wells Gray Provincial Park

Stay in a cozy log cabin or a luxe glamping tent at the Cedar Haven Resort in Clearwater, BC. It’s right next to Wells Gray Provincial Park, home to some of BC’s tallest waterfalls.

If you’re into the cowboy thing, there are also several dude ranches nearby. After a day of activities, relax in the sauna or roast marshmallows around the campfire.

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Boulder Mountain Resort, Revelstoke

I stayed in an adorable cabin at Boulder Mountain Resort for a couple of nights on my most recent trip to Revelstoke, one of the best small towns in Canada. The cabins feel like a cozy wood tiny house… without the tiny. There’s a king bed, a big couch, a huge walk-in shower, and a well-stocked kitchen. There were even cute checkered bathrobes.

It’s a great place to base yourself for hikes near Revelstoke or a visit to Mount Revelstoke National Park. They have glamping tents too!

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More Okanagan and BC Interior Cabins

• Sunshine Valley Resort and Cabins: Cute mini cabins at a campground near Manning Park.
• Mid-Century Waterfront Rancher: Cute retro cottage right on the lake is Osoyoos.
• Shuswap Sky Dome: Unique geodesic dome and wood-fired hot tub with views of Shuswap Lake.

Washington Cabins

If you have a passport, Washington state is a great getaway from Vancouver. And there are lots of cute cabins in northern Washington to explore.

Gingerbread Cottage, Point Roberts

Point Roberts is a geographic anomaly – a peninsula-shaped piece of Washington State that you can only access from British Columbia. The quite border in Tsawwassen makes crossing a breeze.

Stay in this adorable Gingerbread Cottage tucked into the cedar forest. It has a solarium and a great deck. The cottage is located next to a park and a short walk from the beach and shops.

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Oceanfront A-Frame, Birch Bay

Located just across the border, Birch Bay is a great place to find cabins near Vancouver. The oceanfront A-frame has cute modern decor and incredible beach views. The loft bedroom is accessed via a fun spiral staircase.

Outside you’ll find a fire pit, grill and 400 square foot deck. Stairs lead down the bank to the beach.

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Charming Cedar Chalet, Mount Baker

The Mount Baker ski area is a short drive from Vancouver. It’s a great year-round destination with fabulous skiing and snowshoeing in winter and hiking in the summer.

You’ll find lots of cabins clustered in the nearby communities of Glacier, Warnick and Maple Falls. The Charming Cedar Chalet is an adorable shingled cabin with a sleeping loft, woodstove, and private hot tub.

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Oceanfront Cabin, Whitbey Island

Whitbey Island is one of my favourite places in Washington. I love the little towns, quiet coastline, and the drama of Deception Pass State Park.

Stay at this oceanfront cabin in Penn Cove near the town of Coupeville. It has a huge sun-drenched deck, a quiet beach location, and a retro wood paneled interior.

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More Washington Cabins

• Heron House: Three bedroom waterfront cottage on Penn Cove near Coupeville on Whidbey Island.
• Camano Cabin: Enjoy mountain and water views from this cabin on Camano Island near Mount Vernon.
• The Treehouse: Cabin perched in the forest near Lake Whatcom outside of Bellingham.

With over 60 tiny houses, glamping tents, and cottages on this list, I bet you’ll find your perfect cabin rental near Vancouver. How many of these cozy British Columbia and Washington cabins are going on your wish list? Tell me in the comments.

Read Next:

• 20+ Beautiful Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• Camping Near Vancouver, BC: 40+ Best Campgrounds
• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures
• Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies
• Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada

The post 60 Cozy Cabins Near Vancouver for a Weekend Getaway appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

In this post, you’ll find personal recommendations for 22 small towns across Canada along with outdoor adventures that will inspire you to pack your hiking boots and go.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Curious about where all these Canadian adventure towns are located? I made this handy google map that shows you where to find them.

Best Small Towns in the Atlantic Provinces for Outdoor Adventures

Cavendish, Prince Edward Island

Cavendish is a small town in Prince Edward Island. Public transport is limited, so the only way to get to Cavendish is to self-drive. From PEI’s capital city of Charlottetown, it’s a 35-minute drive via Highway 224 and Highway 13. There is typically a shuttle from Charlottetown to Cavendish if self-driving is not an option – check in advance if this is operating.

There are lots of great things to do in the town of Cavendish – it is the perfect place for an outdoor adventure in PEI. One of the most popular things to do is go to Cavendish Beach, which is a white sand beach in Prince Edward Island National Park. Spend some time swimming in the ocean or kiteboarding! 

At Cavendish Beach, you can also go hiking trail on the Dunelands Trail. It is a short, 2.3 km out and back trail that is relatively flat and leads to Cavendish Beach East. The Dunelands trail itself takes about 35 minutes round trip to complete, but Cavendish Beach East is a unique, red sand beach and a beautiful place to explore.

Recommended by Kat from endlesswonder.ca

Wolfville, Nova Scotia

If you’re looking for a small town with big outdoor adventures, look no further than Wolfville, Nova Scotia. This beautiful town is located on the Bay of Fundy and is home to stunning hiking trails, kayaking spots, and more.

Wolfville is easily reached from Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia, making it the perfect weekend getaway spot. In just 1 hour by car, you can be enjoying all that this charming town has to offer. With an airport located in Halifax, you’ll be able to get to Wolfville and be strapping on your hiking shoes within 2 hours of touching down!

One of the best things to do in Wolfville is to hike up to Blomidon Provincial Park. This park offers incredible views of the Bay of Fundy and is a great place to see some of Nova Scotia’s wildlife. Several easy hiking trails wind through the park, making it the perfect place to explore on a sunny day.

Don’t forget to visit in the fall for apple picking and leaf spotting on hiking trails in nearby Annapolis Valley. In the spring, you can also check out local wineries after a morning of kayaking on the Minas Basin.

Recommended by Nina from Nina Out and About

READ NEXT: 16 Things to do Before a Hike

St. Andrews, New Brunswick

St. Andrews by-the-Sea is one of the most popular places in New Brunswick. Nestled beside the Bay of Fundy, the town of St. Andrews is about one hour west of Saint John on Route 1. Whether you’re planning a quick trip or a longer vacation, this historic location is the perfect destination.

One of the best hikes nearby is Sam Orr Pond in the Caughey-Taylor Nature Preserve. This 3.5-km loop takes about an hour and is perfect for families or solo adventurers. If you’d prefer a longer hike, continue to Berry Point for views of the Passamaquoddy Bay. You can visit this nature preserve in winter, too.

In addition, St. Andrews is only 40 minutes from New River Beach Provincial Park and just over two hours to Fundy National Park—lots of options for hiking and camping.

There’s nothing like spending time on the Bay of Fundy. And whale watching is one of the most popular things to do in St. Andrews. However, if you want an eco-adventure, take the ferry to Deer Island to go kayaking. You can spend a couple of hours or head out for a whole day of guided paddling. 

Finally, don’t leave St. Andrews without strolling through the quaint downtown. You’ll find plenty of artisan shops and restaurants to try. Once you’re finished shopping, comb the beach at low tide or drive across the ocean floor to Minister’s Island. Or visit the Pendlebury Lighthouse just outside of town. And if you’re wondering where to stay, The Algonquin Resort is an iconic and charming hotel. 

Recommend by Thomas Coldwell from outandacross.com

Best Small Towns in Quebec for Outdoor Adventures

Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec

Baie Saint-Paul is a beautiful small town in Charlevoix, Quebec. It takes just above one hour to get to Baie-Saint-Paul from Quebec City, depending on the season. 

Baie-Saint-Paul is a year-round destination. In the winter, you can go skiing at one of the nicest ski resorts on the east coast. Le Massif de la Petite-Rivière-Saint-François is only 30 minutes away from Baie-Saint-Paul. It offers lots of snow and ski trails. Plus, the view is simply breathtaking. On some slope, you’ll feel like you’re skiing down into the Saint Lawrence River.

In the summer, don’t miss Le Festif festival which features live music and lots of outdoor activities.

But autumn is by far the most beautiful season to visit Baie-Saint-Paul where you’ll experience the foliage season. From green to yellow to bright red, the changing colors in the trees is in itself a reason to visit the region. But be sure to do some hiking.

Try Mont-du-Lac-des-Cygnes Trail in Grands-Jardins National Park. It’s a 9.2 km out-and-back trail with 439 m elevation gain. If you have more time, the Acropole des Draveurs in the Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park (which is an hour away from Baie-Saint-Paul) is worth the trip. It’s a 10.6 km out-and-back trail with 885 m elevation gain.  Both hikes offer beautiful summit views.

Other than hiking and skiing, the town of Baie-Saint-Paul is really charming. It has many little local stores and art galleries. Le Germain Hotel & Spa is a great option for accommodation. They also have a public spa to relax after a long day outside.

Recommended by Emilie from Love Life Abroad

Val-David, Quebec

Val-David is a small town about 1.5 hours north of Montreal that is big on adventure. Located in the Laurentian Mountains in Quebec, Val-David is an all-season destination for people who love the outdoors.

In the summer, Val-David has world-class rock climbing and bouldering. It is said that Val-David’s granite cliffs were the birthplace of climbing in Quebec. All levels of rock climbers will find routes suitable for their experience. Additionally, the woods around Val-David are strewn with sizeable glacial erratic boulders. There are endless boulder problems to attempt on these massive stones.

You can kayak or canoe on the Rivière du Nord that flows right through the village. Or if cycling is more your thing, bike on the P’tit Train du Nord, a 235 km rail trail that travels from Mont Tremblant to the outskirts of Montreal. There are also 60 km of hiking trails surrounding Val-David.

Equipment rental for many outdoor sports is available in town.

Val-David is also known as a winter mecca. The P’tit Train du Nord Linear Park near Val-David is transformed into a groomed cross-country ski trail. There’s nothing like skiing through a charming village with the snow lightly falling. Also don’t miss snowshoeing on the regional trails, especially up to Mont Condor to see the ice caves. 

Other nearby winter sports include downhill skiing at the local hill, Valle Bleu. There are many other ski hills in the Laurentians to visit, including Mont-Tremblant for big mountain skiing and snowboarding. There is also a lighted skating rink in the center of town.

Recommended by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

READ NEXT: How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide

Mont-Tremblant, Quebec

When it comes to outdoor adventure in Quebec, the town of Mont-Tremblant is THE place to be. This famous Québecois haven is a short 1.5-hour drive from the big city of Montréal via Highway 15.

The outdoor activities are endless in Mont-Tremblant; skiing, biking, dog sledding, tubing, and riding panoramic gondolas, sleigh rides, zip lining and whitewater rafting just to name a few! In the summertime, it’s easy to fall head over heels for this photogenic Laurentian town with breath-taking views of the Mont-Tremblant mountains and an enchanting European-inspired pedestrian village.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Mont-Tremblant. A great trail for the more advanced hikers is the Vertigo, which goes from the base of the Mont-Tremblant to its summit at 3.3km away and takes 1.5 hours to complete.

Another thrilling activity to add to your bucket list is a downhill ride on the Skyline Luge. Start your journey in the pedestrian village, then ride the chairlift up through the Laurentian. At the top, get on board the luge cart to experience an adrenaline-pumping ride down the 1.4km track!

And if you’re stopping by the good ole city of Montreal on your way back, be sure to pay a visit to one of the city’s finest Mediterranean restaurants for some true local gastronomy!

Recommended by Palo of Moons and Roses

Best Small Towns in Ontario for Outdoor Adventures

Gananoque, Ontario

Considered the “Canadian Gateway to the Thousand Islands,” Gananoque, Ontario has a ton of hiking trails and waterways waiting to be explored.

The closest airport is in Ottawa, and from there it’s an hour and a half drive to Gananoque. If coming from Toronto (3 hours away) or anywhere in Southern Ontario, hop onto Highway 401 E and head straight into the area.

Gananoque has its own trail system that includes walking paths and waterfront trails located right in town. However, if you are looking for some awesome hikes with epic views, head over to Thousand Islands National Park located just 20 minutes outside of town.

Landon Bay in Thousand Islands National Park offers several trails that are easy to manage, yet reward you with spectacular views. The Donevan Trail circles around the park. At 4.3 km, this incredibly scenic route will take you about 1.5 hours to complete.

But the Lookout Trail which detours off the Donevan Trail has the best views. At only 500 m from the parking lot, the top of the Lookout Trail presents you with breathtaking views of Landon Bay and the Canadian Thousand Islands.

The Jones Creek Trails at the Thousand Islands National Park are another fabulous place for some incredible hiking. These flat but scenic trails are filled with old-growth forests, wetland habitats, and gorgeous views of the surrounding waters.

Recommended by Marianne from The Journeying Giordanos

Huntsville, Ontario

Huntsville, Ontario is one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures. And while there are plenty of things to do, hiking is one of the most popular.

One of the most famous hikes in Huntsville is the Lions Lookout Trail. It’s a short, but steep 1.3km trail, ending at a lookout that offers spectacular views of Fairy Lake.

Another popular trail is Hunter’s Bay Trail. This 4.6km trail is an easy hike but very scenic and takes around 1.5-2 hours to complete. Starting at the Center Street bridge, the trail follows the lake towards the highway and has sections of floating boardwalk.

Arrowhead Provincial Park is another great spot to hike in Huntsville. There are several trails from 1km to 7km in length but the most popular is the Stubb’s Falls trail. The circular trail is 2km long and takes about 45 minutes to hike, passing Stubb’s Falls before heading back through a forested path. It’s an easy hike, but a bit more technical than the ones mentioned above.

For those looking for longer hikes, Limberlost Forest is just a short drive from Huntsville and offers trails ranging from 4km to 13km, all with varying difficulty. This is a perfect way to get out and experience the beautiful scenery that Huntsville has to offer.

Recommended by Erin from Wanderlustwithkids.com

READ NEXT: The 10 Essentials: Things You Should Bring on Every Hike

Sheguiandah, Manitoulin Island, Ontario

Sheguiandah is a small town on Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron. Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world, so it’s easy to see how this is one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures!

Located approximately six hours from Toronto, the most common method of transportation is driving. There are two main routes to the island – either by road around Georgian Bay or by ferry from the Bruce Peninsula. Both are very scenic.

Sheguiandah is known for being home to the Cup and Saucer hike, atop the Niagara escarpment with 70-meter cliffs that began to form 450 million years ago. It also attracts history and geology enthusiasts with its beautiful rock formations that tell stories of Indigenous history. Check out the optional Adventure Trail section which includes ladders and caves. 

Bridal Veil Falls is a fun place to cool down after a hot day of hiking – you can swim under the waterfall and walk behind it.

Bebamikawe Memorial Trail is another popular hiking trail that gives spectacular views and is slightly easier and more suitable for children.

Plus, the fish are plentiful especially in Lake Kagawong, Lake Manitou, and along the shores of the Georgian Bay. You can rent a motorboat or paddle a canoe.

Use this three-day Manitoulin Island itinerary to get the most out of your visit.

Recommended by Candace from ajourneyinspired.com

Best Small Towns in the Prairie Provinces for Outdoor Adventures

Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

Located in the middle of the prairies, Moose Jaw in Saskatchewan is a surprising destination for most. You’ll find Moosejaw located about 45-minutes west of the city of Regina. Although small in size, there are plenty of fun outdoorsy things to do in Moose Jaw – you just have to know where to look!

Surrounding the town is the Moose Jaw River – perfect for exploring the great outdoors. Jump in a canoe or kayak on the river, or take a guided paddling tour.

One of the best places to visit for hiking is Pound Provincial Park, a 20-minute drive away. Here, you can find over 30 kilometers of trails that are perfect for both hiking and biking. In the winter, the trails are groomed for cross-country skiing. The main attraction of the park is the opportunity to see bison that you can see here. You can also camp in the park.

For wildlife lovers, you simply must visit the Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Center. Here you can see the cute, very small, burrowing owl that is famous in the prairies. While the center offers educational exhibits and captive owls, it’s also easy to spot the wild owls in the grasslands outside.

Another unique activity is the open-air trolley that will take you around town. This historic trolley is picture-perfect and a good way to get around while learning about the history of the area. Dress for the weather as this is an open-air experience. 

Recommended by Bailey from Destinationless Travel

READ NEXT: How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan

Prince Albert is one of the best places to visit in Saskatchewan. It is located on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River and is home to Prince Albert National Park. This small town is easily accessible from Saskatoon, which is a 1.5-hour drive way.

Prince Albert several of historic buildings, including the Prince Albert Historical Museum, and Diefenbaker House. But many flock to Prince Albert for its National Park. 

The park is known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. The park is home to bears, wolves, elk, deer, moose, and many other animals. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. 

Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of activities, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the area, you will particularly like the shores of Waskesiu Lake for a stroll or a summer picnic. 

Prince Albert National Park is also great for camping. Pick Beaver Glen Campground for an overnight stay.

This park is a great place in the summers, but it is open year-round. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking and fishing in the park’s many trails and waterways. In the winter, the park is a popular destination for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. 

Recommended by Mayuri from Canada Crossroads

Canmore, Alberta

The small town of Canmore, Alberta is located in the Canadian Rockies a 1.5-hour drive west of Calgary. You can drive yourself or take an airport shuttle. Canmore is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise and there are many types of activities for different tastes and skill levels.

Since Canmore was the host city for nordic events during the 1988 Calgary Olympics, the cross country skiing facilities are truly world-class. The Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park offers over 60 km of groomed trails, for both classic and skate skiing. Part of the trail system is illuminated so you can keep on skiing until 9 pm. Other amazing winter activities include backcountry skiing and sled dog rides.

In the warmer months, Canmore offers some of the most amazing hiking adventures for every skill and difficulty level. All the hikes in Canmore reward you with spectacular mountain views and clean forest air. The trails might take you through bridges, by a creek, or to the shores of the Bow River. But no matter what you must come to the shores of the little Quarry Lake for the most beautiful and peaceful scenery.

If you’re looking for a challenge, go on a guided hike to the summit of Ha Ling Peak.

Recommended by Bea from PackYourBags

READ NEXT: 15 Best Things to Do in Canmore in Winter

Banff, Alberta

Nestled amongst one of the most beautiful national parks in Canada is the small mountain town of Banff. About a 90-minute drive from Calgary it is easily accessible – rent a car or take one of the regular shuttle buses between Calgary and Banff.

Banff is one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures. There is a lot to do just around the town. Or you can use it as a base to explore Banff National Park by car.

A short but rewarding hike within the town is the 4.3km Tunnel Mountain hike. A steep trail leads to some of the best views over the town. Guided hikes are also available. Or take a scenic bike ride through the town to Vermillion Lakes where a 4 km road gives wonderful vistas of Banff’s mountains as well as some potential wildlife spotting opportunities.

If you have more time in the area, and access to a car, Banff National Park is home to some of the most stunning lakes in Canada. Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka are both only a 15-minute drive from Banff; Moraine Lake and Lake Louise are about 45 minutes to an hour away. All are well worth the drive.

Recommended by Emma from Forever Lost In Travel

READ NEXT: 9 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Banff in the Fall and Best Things to Do in Banff in the Spring

Jasper, Alberta

The small town of Jasper is the gateway to the beautiful Jasper National Park. It offers charming boutiques, hip restaurants, and cozy hotels to enjoy between your outdoor adventures. The closest big city is Edmonton. But you can also get to Jasper from Calgary. Along the drive, you’ll pass right by Banff and Yoho National Parks on the Icefields Parkway, making this a popular Canadian Rockie road trip.

Many of Jaspers Jasper’s most incredible sites are along the Icefields Parkway. Plan a hike along the 1.4 km out-and-back Athabasca Glacier Trail, where you can walk right up to the glacier’s leading edge and marvel at the massiveness (up to 300 metres thick!) of part of North America’s largest icefield. You can walk ON the glacier as part of a guided tour.

For a more intense hike, consider the 8 km out-and-back Wilcox Pass trail, which provides breathtaking vistas of the glacier’s tongue- and an excellent spot for seeing bighorn sheep!

If you’d rather get your adrenaline pumping, you can book a white water rafting tour in the summertime, like the Class III+ rapids along the Sunwapta River (which literally translates to “turbulent waters”).

Visiting in the wintertime? Ski or snowboard on any of the 91 runs at the Marmot Basin ski resort, all with the dramatic Canadian Rockies as your backdrop. 

Recommended by Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

Best Small Towns in British Columbia for Outdoor Adventures

Revelstoke, British Columbia

Revelstoke is my favourite Canadian mountain town. Located in eastern British Columbia, it’s a 6-hour drive from Vancouver or 4.5 hours from Calgary. The nearest airport is in Kelowna, 2.5 hours away.

In the winter, Revelstoke is most famous for snowmobiling and skiing – Revelstoke Mountain Resort has the highest vertical drop of any ski resort in North America!

But there are lots of things to do in Revelstoke in the summer. It’s a great destination for mountain bikers, with lift-accessed trails at the ski resort and lots of other trails around town. Extreme sports junkies can also go white water rafting or paragliding. Halcyon and Halfway River hot springs are also nearby.

Mount Revelstoke National Park is right on the edge of town. Be sure to drive the Meadows in the Sky Parkway for amazing views of the surrounding mountains and valley below. In mid-summer, the wildflower display is unreal.

Make time to go hiking in Revelstoke. If you’re looking for a short walk, check out the easy 0.5 km trail to Sutherland Falls in Blanket Creek Provincial Park. For something more challenging, head to Eva Lake in Mount Revelstoke National Park. It’s a 12 km round trip that takes about 6 hours.

Recommended by Taryn from Dawn Outdoors

READ NEXT: 15 Things to do in Revelstoke in the Summer

Squamish, British Columbia

My hometown of Squamish bills itself as the adventure capital of Canada. It’s located on the famous Sea to Sky Highway in between Vancouver and Whistler. The easiest way to get there is by car (1.5 hours from Vancouver), but you can also take a shuttle bus.

Squamish is world-famous for rock climbing, especially on the Stawamus Chief, a 700-meter-tall granite monolith. But you don’t need a rope and harness to climb to the top. A steep and challenging 11-kilometer-long trail for hikers scrambles up the backside to three different peaks where you can peer straight down the sheer face. It’s one of the best hikes in Squamish.

Garibaldi Provincial Park is just outside Squamish is one of BC’s best hiking destinations. Get details on the hike to picturesque Garibaldi Lake or the beautiful views of Elfin Lakes in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

You can also check out off-the-beaten-path local favourites like the hike to Mount Crumpit (named after the Grinch’s home) and Brohm Lake. Or walk the easy trails at the topic of the Sea to Sky Gondola. In the winter, Squamish has great snowshoeing trails.

Squamish also has hundreds of kilometres of mountain bike trails. Beginner-friendly trails crisscross the valley floor and expert routes descend rock slabs on nearby hills and mountains. Beginners can sign up for a guided mountain bike tour that includes instruction.

Recommended by Taryn of Dawn Outdoors

READ NEXT: Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler

Gibsons, British Columbia

While it’s a bit under-the-radar, I think Gibsons on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast is one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures. It is is a short 40-minute ferry ride from Vancouver. I lived there for five months and enjoyed exploring all the things to do on the Sunshine Coast. It’s a cute waterfront town with lots of boutiques, restaurants, and craft beer.

The quaint harbour is a great place to launch kayaks and paddle to nearby Keats Island. The town is also home to several beaches. Bonniebrook Beach on the north end of town is the best since it’s over two kilometres long and has lots of sand. Mountain bikers will love the huge trail network on the forested slopes above the town.

Some of the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast are in Gibsons. Don’t miss the trail to the top of Soames Hill for great views. It’s only 2 kilometres long, but it’s a steep climb with stairs. I also love the easy trails in nearby Cliff Gilker Park since they wind through the forest to several waterfalls.

Recommended by Taryn of Dawn Outdoors

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC

Tofino, British Columbia

Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino is a popular weekend getaway from Vancouver. It’s a three-hour drive from the ferry terminal in Nanaimo. You can also get there by floatplane.

The town is famous for its sandy beaches, lush rainforest, and quaint shops. It also has some of the best surfing in Canada. It’s beginner-friendly, with lots of shops offering surf lessons and rentals, which include warm wetsuits for the cold water.

Tofino is also one of the easiest places to access Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Beginners should try the easy Rainforest Loop trail. There are two loops, each one km long. The trail goes through incredible scenery with lots of moss, ferns, and towering trees.

There are also several beach hikes, including the 6.8 km long Nuu-chah-nulth Trail between the Kwisitis Visitor Centre and Florencia Bay. It features interpretive signs about the local Nuu-chah-nulth Indigenous people.

Catch a water taxi in Tofino to access even more adventures. Kayak in Clayoquot Sound. Go backpacking on Flores Island’s Wild Side Trail. Hike amongst giant trees on the Big Tree Trail on Meares Island. Or go for a soak in the remote springs at Hot Springs Cove.

Recommended by Taryn of Dawn Outdoors

READ NEXT: 22 Weekend Getaways from Vancouver

Best Small Towns in Northern Canada for Outdoor Adventures

Dawson City, Yukon Territory

Dawson City is a historic Gold Rush town in the Yukon. The town is best accessed by road on a Yukon road trip. You can get there by the Top of the World Highway (from Alaska) or via the Klondike Highway.

This outdoor destination is famous for being a popular site that contributed to the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1800s. It is also the second-largest town in the Yukon with a population of just under 1400 people. 

There are some fantastic hiking and biking opportunities here in the summer. Near the town is the beautiful 8.4 km trek that will take you from Dawson City to Midnight Dome.

Many of the most stunning hikes are in Tombstone Territorial Park. One of the most rewarding hikes is the Goldensides Mountain, which is just 3.4 km but provides excellent views. You should expect to complete this hike in under 1.5 hours.

If you decide to tackle the trails on a mountain bike, we suggest the Dome Climb which has some paved sections.

Recommended by Natasha from The World Pursuit

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

Located on the north bank of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife is the capital city of Northwest Territories and has a population of less than 20,000. The best way to get there is to take a flight from major cities like Vancouver, Toronto, or Calgary. 

Yellowknife is famous for its viewing of magnificent northern lights. It is one of the best places in the world to experience this amazing and magical natural phenomenon on earth. Many factors determine your chance to see the Northern Lights, but statistically, the area offers a 90 percent chance of sighings between mid-November and March. 

The long, cold winter and minimal light pollution in Yellowknife mean there is an extended period of darkness on winter nights. Don’t be surprised to see the Northern lights as early as 7 pm outside your hotel! For a complete viewing experience, stay in the city for three to four days, sign up for a guided tour, visit an aurora village, and then drive to an open area yourself once you have a better idea of where and how to see the lights. 

To explore nature during the daytime, head to the Ingraham Trail that extends to Tibbitt Lake and check out Cameron Falls. It is an easy hike that’s suitable for any type of traveler and the views of the lakes and forest are breathtaking. Guided hikes are also available.

Recommended by Kenny from Knycx journeying 

READ NEXT: The Best Canadian Adventure Books

Fort Smith, Northwest Territories

Fort Smith is located just north of the border between the Northwest Territories and Alberta. You can get there by plane, but many visit as part of an epic road trip thanks to Highway 5. It’s about a 9-hour drive from Yellowknife but it’s certainly worth the trek!

The town is the gateway to Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada’s largest national park and the world’s largest dark sky preserve. Camping at Pine Lake is a popular activity that allows you to see a large part of the park, though many head to the Switchback Trail where you’ll find the only salt plains in Canada.

As the area is a dark sky preserve, check out the Fort Smith Star Park and Observatory. Run by the Thebacha and Wood Buffalo Astronomical Society (TAWBAS), they will happily allow access to their telescopes so that you can catch a glimpse of the Milky Way. There is also a chance of catching the Northern Lights, though your best time to visit is between August and April!

If you’re an avid paddler, you’ll want to mark Fort Smith on your bucket list and see how you fare against the area’s white water rapids! Every year, Fort Smith hosts the Slave River Paddlefest where locals and visitors alike tackle the rapids and make memories you’ll never forget. If you’re unable to visit for the festival, the Fort Smith Paddling Club is always happy to show visitors the ropes since white water is not to be taken lightly!

Recommended by Lindsay from I’ve Been Bit

Iqaluit, Nunavut

To residents of Nunavut, Iqaluit is distinctly a city – it’s the epicentre of life at the top of the country. But by most Canadians’ standards, Iqaluit’s 8500 permanent residents put it firmly in the ‘town category’. Despite its size, you’ll be surprised how much activity can be found in the ‘New York of the North’.

Iqaluit lies on the southeast side of Baffin Island and is the capital of Nunavut. Any community north of 60 might seem inaccessible, but Iqaluit is actually only a 3-hour flight from Ottawa.

Once in Iqaluit, there are a ton of things to do depending on the season. In the spring, while the sea ice is still frozen, you can go snowmobiling over the arctic ocean, dog sledding on the tundra, try your hand at ice fishing, or chase the northern lights.

In the summer and fall, you can go hiking. The Apex Trail provides constant ocean views and is 5 km long. It ends at a tall hill which you can climb for even better views. Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park has another fantastic hike, offering views of the bright blue glacial river, which is roughly 6 km long. In addition to hiking, you can also explore the tundra by ATV or go kayaking on Frobisher Bay.

Due to the remoteness (and the occasional polar bear sighting), most activities require the support of a local guide or outfitter. Inukpack Outfitting and Arctic Kingdom are the two primary outfitters.

Recommended by Mikaela of Voyageur Tripper

How many of these Canadian towns have you visited? And which of these small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures are on your bucket list? Tell me in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip
• The Best Canadian Adventure Books
• Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada
• Where to Experience Indigenous Tourism in Canada
• 22 Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• 25 Cozy Cabins Near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway

The post Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I like it so much I’ve actually been there three times in the last few years. The location is also a bonus: right next to Revelstoke, BC’s cutest mountain town. In this post, I’ll give you my picks for the best things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park.

Psst! Do you love national parks? Check out my list of the best Canadian National parks gift ideas!

Hey there: Thanks so much to Tourism Revelstoke for hosting me in Revelstoke on two of my trips. All opinions in this post are my own. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission with no extra cost to you. Thanks -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Mount Revelstoke National Park Basics

Where is Mount Revelstoke National Park?

Mount Revelstoke National Park is located along Highway 1 northeast of the town of Revelstoke. It’s a 4.5-hour drive from Calgary and a 6-hour drive from Vancouver. It sits in the middle of British Columbia in the Selkirk Mountains.

How to Get Around Mount Revelstoke National Park

There are several trailheads in the eastern part of the park along Highway 1. But you can access the majority of the park from Meadows in the Sky Parkway which leaves Highway 1 just east of the town of Revelstoke. There is no public transit to the park so you will need your own car.

Mount Revelstoke National Park Fees

You must purchase a National Park pass to visit the park. As of 2024, day passes cost $11 per adult or $22 for a family of up to 7 people travelling in the same vehicle. If you plan to visit other National Parks, the annual Parks Canada Discovery Pass is a great deal at $75.25 for one adult or $151.25 for a family.

When to Visit Mount Revelstoke National Park

The park is high in the mountains. You can visit the lower parts of the park year-round and some of the roads are plowed in winter. The lower part of the park is snow-free between late May and early October. The snow doesn’t melt in the rest of the park until July, making July, August, and early September the best time to visit Mount Revelstoke National Park.

Check trail and road conditions on the Mountain Revelstoke National Park website to see what is open when you plan to visit.

Visiting Mount Revelstoke National Park With a Dog

Due to problems with wildlife, most areas of Mount Revelstoke National Park are off-limits to dogs. You can bring your dog to the Giant Cedars Boardwalk, the Skunk Cabbage Boardwalk, the Snowforest Campground, and lower mountain trails below the Columbia Viewpoint on the Meadows in the Sky Parkway but they must be on a leash. See Parks Canada’s website for more details.

Mount Revelstoke National Park Weather

Since it is located amongst several high mountain ranges, Mount Revelstoke National Park has unpredictable weather. Expect lots of snow in the winter and rain at any time!

In general, the summer months of July and August are fairly sunny but afternoon thunderstorms are common. Expect it to be much colder at the summit of Mount Revelstoke compared to the valley bottom.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

Mount Revelstoke National Park Map

Like all Canadian National Parks, Mount Revelstoke is well signed and easy to navigate. However, it can be helpful to look at a map to plan your trip. This Mount Revelstoke National Park map shows all the major landmarks and hiking trails.

I also made you a custom Google Map. It has everything I mention in this post. There’s no cell service along parts of the Meadows in the Sky Parkway, so be sure to download the offline version before you start the drive.

Where to Stay Near Mount Revelstoke National Park

You can camp in the park at the new Snowforest campground (more info below). If you would rather stay in a hotel, the town of Revelstoke is just a few minutes away.

For an upscale hotel, I recommend The Regent Hotel, which is family-owned or The Eleven Revekstoke Lodge, a cute boutique property. If you’re on a budget, check out the cute cabins at Boulder Mountain Resort. For more info, see my guide to the town of Revelstoke.

Bear Safety in Mount Revelstoke National Park

Mount Revelstoke National Park is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. Carry bear spray and make noise while you hike to reduce your risk of a negative bear encounter. Keep a clean campsite and store all food and toiletries inside your car or a bear locker. For more info about hiking in bear country, read my post about bear safety for hikers.

Mount Revelstoke National Park Indigenous Context

The Revelstoke area is the traditional territory of the Sinixt First Nation. The Secwepemc, Ktunaxa, and Syilx First Nations also have traditional land use in the area. When European settlers arrived in Revelstoke in the 1800s, they did not respect Sinixt territory.

Most of the Sinixt people were pushed into the southern part of their traditional territory in Washington and were unable to return to Canada and the Revelstoke area. The Canadian government declared the Sinixt extinct, but a landmark Supreme Court of Canada decision in 2021 declared that they do still exist and have the right to hunt in their traditional territory.

Things to Do in Mount Revelstoke National Park

Hike in the Rainforest

The easiest part of Mount Revelstoke National Park to visit is the two rainforest trailheads along Highway 1. Both locations have a picnic area, washrooms, and short interpretive hiking trails.

Giant Cedars Boardwalk

Located 30 km east of Revelstoke on the north side of Highway 1, this is a a short and easy hike in an old-growth forest with giant cedar and hemlock trees. The entire hike is on boardwalks and stairs. Signage along the way will help you learn about the ecosystem including 500-year-old trees.

The trail was closed for a few years for repairs, but as of 2024, it it back open. It used to be a loop, but now it is a one-way trail.

Skunk Cabbage Boardwalk

Located 28 km east of Revelstoke on the south side of Highway 1, this trail used to wind through rare Columbia Mountain wetland habitat on a series of boardwalks and bridges. Unfortunately, the trail suffered severe flood damage a few years ago.

As of 2024, a small section of trail is open. It leads to a new blind for bird watching. You can also enjoy the picnic area at the trailhead.

Drive the Meadows in the Sky Parkway

The main draw at Mount Revelstoke National Park is the Meadows in the Sky Parkway. The 26km-long road climbs 1600 meters from the valley bottom to the summit of Mount Revelstoke.

The road is open from May until October, but depending on snowmelt, you will not be able to drive all the way to the summit until July. The road has many sharp hairpin turns so buses and RVs over 26 feet long and trailers are not allowed. Allow about 1 hour (without stops) to drive from Highway 1 to the top since the road is so curvy that you can’t drive very fast. There are several scenic viewpoints along the road.

Revelstoke Viewpoint (KM5): A great view of the town of Revelstoke and Mount Begbie across the valley.

Monashee Viewpoint (KM8): Look down at the Columbia River and across to the Monashee Mountains and Eagle Pass.

Columbia Viewpoint (KM12): See the Selkirk Mountains and Columbia River Valley. Heads up: This is the furthest you can go if you have a dog with you.

Eagle Pass Viewpoint (KM13): Views of Eagle Pass and the Monashee Mountains.

Bridge Creek Viewpoint (KM16): Look south to the Revelstoke Mountain Resort atop Mount Mackenzie.

Panorama Point (KM24): Unlike the other viewpoints, this one involves a short walk (less than 5 minutes), but the views of the Illecillewaet and Columbia River valleys are worth it.

Wildflowers (last few kilometres of the drive): Look for beautiful wildflowers lining the road. Peak flower season is late July and early August.

Explore the Summit of Mount Revelstoke

The Mountains in the Sky Parkway ends at Balsam Lake, near the summit of Mount Revelstoke. It’s a really unique experience to be able to drive almost to the top of a 1933m mountain! Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed in this area. There are a few different things to do at the summit area.

Hike to the Summit

From the parking lot, you can hike to the summit. The best option is the Upper Summit trail that winds through sub-alpine meadows. The one-kilometre trail gains 91m and takes most people about 20-30 minutes. You can also hike up the nearby gated road which has the same stats.

I prefer to hike up the trail, then down the road. Heading uphill on the trail is nicer since it’s a bit more shaded in hot weather. There are often beautiful wildflowers along the road and it has a great view in the downhill direction.

Visit the Historic Fire Lookout

Don’t miss the historic fire lookout which sits right on the summit of Mount Revelstoke. Built in 1927, it is almost 100 years old. The building is no longer in use, but for decades a tower person lived here full time, peering out the elevated windows with a telescope to watch for fires in the surrounding mountains.

Follow the short Fire Lookout Trail from the shuttle parking lot. Don’t miss the side trails to the nearby South Parapet and North Parapet Viewpoints. Allow 10-20 minutes for the 0.5 km walk.

Hike the Summit Area Nature Trails

Besides the Fire Lookout, there are a few other short, easy, and nearly flat nature trails around the summit area.

Koo Koo Sint Trail: This short trail rambles through sub-alpine meadow and forest just north of the summit. Interpretive signs along the way explain settler history of the area including info about geographer David Thompson, who the Salish nicknamed Koo Koo Sint, meaning stargazer. The 1.5km-long trail takes about 30 minutes to complete.

First Footsteps Trail: Enjoy Secwepemc, Ktunaxa, and Okanagan First Nations culture through sculpture and artwork along this easy walking trail. It makes a loop through subalpine meadows and stops at a viewpoint where you can gaze down at “The Icebox”, a rocky cleft in the mountain that holds snow all year. Plan to spend 30 minutes on the 1km loop.

Heather Lake Trail: Follow the shoreline trail around tiny Heather Lake to admire the wildflowers. It’s only 400m long and will take about 10 minutes.

Hike at Balsam Lake

While most visitors make a bee-line for the summit, there are also great nature trails right next to the Balsam Lake parking lot.

Balsam Lake Trail: Make a gentle loop around Balsam Lake, stopping to enjoy the wildflower meadows along the lakeshore. On my last visit I took my mom to Balsam Lake and she loved the flowers here. The 0.5km loop takes 10 minutes.

Eagle Knoll: Follow the trail east from Balsam Lake to quiet Eagle Knoll. There’s a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Columbia Valley. Allow an hour for the 1.5km round trip hike.

Hike to Eva, Jade, and Miller Lakes in the Backcountry

If you’re up for a longer hike, I think the best trail in the park is the trip to Eva, Jade, and Miller lakes set deep in the backcountry of Mount Revelstoke National Park. The route starts at the Mount Revelstoke summit area and heads northeast into the mountains, passing through wildflower meadows.

You can reach all three lakes from branch trails off the main trail. There are only 200 meters of net elevation gain between the trailhead and Miller and Eva Lakes, but it will feel like a lot more since there are tons of small ups and downs.

Miller Lake is the closest at 11km round trip.

Eva Lake is next at 12km round trip. It’s also easy to combine the two since they are a few minutes walk from each other. Allow 4-6 hours for the hike to Eva Lake and Miller Lake.

Jade Lake is a bit further away as you climb over Jade Pass into treeless alpine tundra. It’s an 18km round trip with 428m of elevation gain. Plan to spend 6-8 hours on the trail.

Both Eva and Jade Lakes have backcountry campsites if you want to spend the night. They require advance reservations online. Eva Lake also has an old historic cabin that makes a great place to eat lunch during a rainstorm. (Ask me how I know!)

Camp at Snowforest Campground

Opened in 2020, Mount Revelstoke’s Snowforest Campground is the only front-country campground in the park. It has 62 campsites with a mix of drive-in sites, RV sites, and walk-in sites.

I stayed in a walk-in site in August 2020 and have to say that it has some of the nicest campground bathrooms I have ever seen. There is a huge building with individual toilet stalls, showers, and a communal sink area.

In the last few years there has been increased bear activity around the campground, which has led Parks Canada to close the campground to tents. In 2023 and 2024 only hard-sided units (truck campers, motorhomes, or RVs) were allowed. That might change in the future – check the Mount Revelstoke National Park website for details.

The campground is located on the lower part of Meadows in the Sky Parkway so it’s easy to go into the town of Revelstoke or to drive up the mountain to explore more of the park. If you want to hike right from your campsite, explore the Soren Sorenson loop trail which connects to the Inspiration Woods trail and the Nel’s Knickers Trial. You can even walk or bike to Revelstoke using the 23 Connector Trail or a combo of the Soren Sorenson and Mount Revelstoke Trails.

Visit the Historic Ski Jump

Mount Revelstoke has an important place in Canadian skiing history. Up until the 1960s, Revelstoke was the ski jumping capital of Canada. Norwegian-born Nels Nelson is credited with popularizing the sport in Revelstoke and setting world records for distance.

Parks Canada has done an amazing job of turning the old ski jump into an outdoor exhibit with info plaques, old newspaper clippings, and replica signage. But the best part is the Nels Knickers sculpture that lets you experience what it’s like to stand at the top of the hill, ready to ski jump. It’s also a fun (and goofy) photo op.

It’s an easy walk to the top on the Nels Knickers Trail from the Meadows in the Sky Parkway. But if you want a longer (and steeper!) hike, park at the Nels Nelson Historic Area lower down the mountain, then follow the Nels Nelson Ski Jump trail from the bottom of the jump to the top.

Go for a Bike Ride

Mount Revelstoke National Park has a few options for different styles of biking.

Mountain Biking: Explore cross-country-style trails on the lower mountain. Start at the Nels Nelson Historic area and tackle the green-rated lower Soren Sorenson Loop or the blue-rated upper Soren Sorenson Loop. You can also bike there directly from the town of Revelstoke on the 23 Connector or Mount Revelstoke Trails.

Road Biking: Challenge yourself by tackling a full ascent of the Meadows in the Sky Parkway on your road bike. You’ll gain 1,400m over 26km on the way to the summit. But with an average grade of 5.5%, it’s never very steep and there are lots of viewpoints to stop and catch your breath. My husband wants to bring his road bike on our next visit so he can say he biked to the top.

Kids Bike Park: The Beaver Lodge Kids Bike Park is a great destination for families. Kids will love the whimsical sculptures, fun teeter-totter, bridges, and looping pathways.

Hike the Quiet Lower Mountain Trails

Since most hikers focus on the summit trails or the highway-accessed rainforest trails, you might have the lower mountain trails all to yourself. I haven’t had time to hike these trails yet, but I hear they are pretty and very quiet.

Inspiration Woods: This beautiful forest walk features cedar and hemlock trees draped in lichens and a carpet of moss and ferns underfoot. It’s a great option for spring and fall when the higher elevation trails are snowy. Allow an hour for the 2.5km hike.

Soren Sorenson Loops: With both a 2km and a 5km loop to choose from, the Soren Sorenson trails are a good option if you are staying at the Snowforest Campground. Originally built as winter cross-country skiing trails, they are also open to mountain bikes. Allow 30 minutes for the shorter loop and 1.5 hours for the longer one.

Broken Bridge: This short forested walk ends at a ruined bridge that makes a great photo location. Since it’s very shaded, it’s a good option for sunny days. Allow 40 minutes for the 2km trip.

Hike from Valley Bottom to Summit

If you want a real challenge, skip the drive to the summit and hike there instead. Before the Meadows in the Sky Parkway was built, trails were the only way to get to the summit. There are two hiking options:

Summit Trail: Start at the Nels Nelson parking lot to hike the original route to the summit, gaining 1353m. It crosses the Meadows in the Sky Parkway several times as it works its way uphill through several ecosystems. The trail is 10km one way and should take 4-5 hours.

Lindmark Trail: This alternative route to the summit starts a little higher up at the Monashee Lookout. It gains 982m over 8km. Since it never crosses a road, it has a better wilderness feel than the summit trail. Plan to spend 3.5 hours on the hike uphill.

Go Cross-Country Skiing or Snowshoeing

Mount Revelstoke National Park has a long history with winter sports, especially skiing. If you visit in winter, the road into the park is plowed as far as the Nels Nelson Historic area. From there you can snowshoe on the Soren Sorenson Loop trails or cross-country ski on the upper part of the Meadows in the Sky Parkway. I haven’t visited in winter yet, but I’d love to snowshoe here.

So that’s everything you need to know to plan a trip to Mount Revelstoke National Park. Have questions about the best things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park? Ask me in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• 15 Things to do in Revelstoke in the Summer
• The Best Hikes in Revelstoke, BC
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip
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• 15 Best Things to Do in Canmore in Winter
• 20+ Beautiful Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway

The post Things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park, Canada appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Hey there: Thanks so much to Tourism Revelstoke for hosting me in Revelstoke. All opinions in this post are my own. Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

Revelstoke Hiking Basics

Where is Revelstoke?

The town of Revelstoke is in eastern British Columbia, Canada. It’s on the banks of the Columbia River at 480m above sea level. Revelstoke is in a river valley between the Monashee and Selkirk Mountain ranges. The Rocky Mountains are about 100km to the east. Mount Revelstoke National Park is just outside town and Glacier National Park is a 40-minute drive to the east. Revelstoke is in the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa, Secwepemc, Sinixt, and Okanagan First Nations.

Getting to Revelstoke

 Revelstoke is on highway 1. It’s a 6-hour drive from Vancouver in the west or 4.5 hours from Calgary in the east. Revelstoke has an airport, but it only has charter flights. The closest major airport is in Kelowna where you can get a shuttle van to Revelstoke that takes about 2.5 hours. Revelstoke also makes a great stop on a road trip across Canada.

Hiking season in Revelstoke

Revelstoke sits deep in the mountains. That means it has a short summer hiking season from May to September. Generally, the valley bottom trails start to be snow-free in April or May with higher elevation trails staying snowy into late July. By late September, it has started to snow again in the mountains. No matter what time of year you hike, check the weather forecast before you head out. Checking the weather is just one of the things you should do before every hike.

Revelstoke Weather

Revelstoke has a mountain climate.  Summer temperatures are typically highs of 23-25C and lows of 11C. July and August are the driest months, but Revelstoke has a wetter climate than the nearby Rocky Mountains so it can still have some rainy days in summer.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

What to bring hiking in Revelstoke

 Even if you are just going for a short hike near Revelstoke, you need to be prepared for the weather and conditions. Don’t forget the 10 essentials. (Rain gear and warm clothing are especially important.)

Bear Safety

Revelstoke is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. Carry bear spray and make noise while you hike to reduce your risk of a negative bear encounter. On some trails in Glacier National Park, you must hike in groups of at least four people. (Full details on that hike below.) For more info about hiking in bear country, read my post about bear safety for hikers.

Leave No Trace

The area around Revelstoke is sensitive wilderness. Learn about Leave No Trace principles to help keep the wilderness wild.

Other Things to Do in Revelstoke

Hiking is my favourite thing to do in Revelstoke, but this cute mountain town has so much more to offer including amazing food, paddling, mountain biking, paragliding, and more. Read my guide to the best things to do in Revelstoke in the summer for all the details.

Revelstoke Trails Map

Best Hikes in Revelstoke

Greenbelt Trail

You don’t need to leave town to go for a hike in Revelstoke. The easy Greenbelt Trail along the Columbia and Illecillewaet Rivers is flat and has great views. You can walk the entire length from the Aquatic Centre along the Columbia River, up the Illecillewaet River to Powerhouse Road. Or just go for a stroll along a short section. I like to go for a walk along the river in the evening to watch the sunset over the mountains.

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: Up to 10km round trip | Elevation gain: none | Time Needed: Up to 3 hours |Best Time to Go: April to October | How to get there: Walk from pretty much anywhere in town. The start and endpoints of the Greenbelt are at the Aquatic Centre and on Powerhouse Road.

Mount Mackenzie

The easiest way to get high up into Revelstoke’s mountains is to ride the gondola at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort. In just 20 minutes you’ll ascend to 1700m above sea level. To get to the top of the mountain, follow the Stoke Climb trail uphill. It’s a mountain bike ascent trail, so even though it gains a lot of elevation, the slope is gentle. Stop to admire the views and meadows along the way. At the top of the Stoke Climb, watch the bikers start their long descent, and if you’re lucky, paragliders taking off too. (I can’t believe I jumped off the mountain here in 2019!) To continue to the sub-peak of Mount Mackenzie, follow the loop trail uphill.

Difficulty: Challenging | Distance: 15.8 km round trip | Elevation gain: 650m | Time Needed: 6 hours |Best Time to Go: mid-July to September | Trail Info: Revelstoke Mountain Resort | How to get there: Follow signs east through town along Fourth Street, Airport Way, Nichol Road, and Camozzi Road to Revelstoke Mountain Resort 7km from town. Then, ride the Revelation Gondola to the top station.

Begbie Falls

Begbie Falls is a split waterfall, with two tongues of water cascading down the slope. It’s set deep in a gulley, surrounded by beautiful forest. There are two ways to get to Begbie Falls: a short way from the lower trailhead and a long way from the upper trailhead. But they are both easy! From the lower trailhead, it’s a quick but steep walk down some switchbacks to the falls. If you start at the upper trailhead, you’ll follow the Bluff Trail through the forest, passing several side trails that lead to rock climbing crags or mountain bike trails. The junctions are all signed, so you won’t get lost. When the Bluff Trail meets a gravel road, turn right to get to the lower trailhead and then go downhill to the falls.

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 1 or 6km round trip | Elevation gain: 40 or 160m | Time Needed: 20 minutes or 2 hours | Best Time to Go: May to September | Trail Info: Begbie Falls Recreation Site | How to get there: Head south on Highway 23 from Revelstoke. To get to the lower trailhead, turn left after 7km onto Clough Road. After a few minutes, turn right onto Mount Begbie Road and follow it past the campground to the parking lot at the end, 4km from the highway. It’s a gravel road and can be bumpy but should be fine for most cars. For the upper trailhead, turn left off Highway 23 into a gravel parking lot after about 9km.

Moses Falls

Unlike the other waterfalls in Revelstoke, Moses Falls is broad and the water spreads out over several ledges instead of roaring downhill in a single torrent. The trail to the falls is very short, but it is steep, rooty, and muddy so watch your step. The trail starts by heading downhill from the parking lot through the grass, crosses a gravel road, then descends steeply beside the falls before reaching the base. From there a trail heads downhill for another few minutes to the Columbia River and another parking area, accessed by a steep gravel road.

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 0.5km round trip | Elevation gain: 40m | Time Needed: 30 minutes | Best Time to Go: May to September | How to get there: Head north from Highway 1 on Westside Road for 6km. Look for a gravel parking lot on the right. Park here for the upper trailhead. If you have an AWD car, turn right on the dirt road just past the parking lot and follow it for a few minutes down the steep hill to the riverbank. 

Sutherland Falls

I think Sutherland Falls in nearby Blanket Creek Provincial Park is the most beautiful of the three waterfalls near Revelstoke. It’s also the easiest hike. From the parking area, it’s an easy stroll along the gently sloped trail to the 12 m-high falls. You can get a great view of the falls from the viewing area, or scramble (carefully) down into the creek to get a bit closer. If you visit in the autumn, watch for spawning salmon in the creek.

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 0.5km round trip | Elevation gain: 20m | Time Needed: 10 minutes |Best Time to Go: May to September | Trail Info: Blanket Creek Provincial Park | How to get there: Head south on Highway 23 from Revelstoke. Look for the signed turn-off for Blanket Creek Provincial Park after 24 km.

Halfway River Hot Springs

Some might argue hiking is about the journey, not the destination. But that’s not true at Halfway River Hot Springs. The short trail winds downhill through the forest to the springs. It’s a nice enough hike… but really it’s the hot springs you are here for! The natural springs here are one of my favourite hot springs in Canada and one of the best things to do in Revelstoke. While it the hike downhill to the springs might seem easy, save your energy for the climb back up. It’s steep!

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 1km round trip | Elevation gain: 50m | Time Needed: 10 minutes | Best Time to Go: April to October | Trail Info: Halfway River Hot Springs Recreation Site | How to get there: From Revelstoke, drive Highway 23 south for 79km to the Halfway River Forest Service road on the south side of the Halfway River bridge. (The drive includes a ride on the free Arrows Lakes ferry.) From the turnoff, it’s 11km of gravel road driving to the parking lot. The road is fine for 2wd vehicles as long as you go slow and avoid the potholes. 

Keystone Standard Basin

This challenging trail is popular with both hikers and mountain bikers. I haven’t hiked it yet, but my husband Greg and my Dad biked it last summer. Greg said it was a challenge on bikes but would make an amazing backpacking trip or long day hike: “Since you do most of the elevation gain in the car, the trail is almost entirely in alpine meadows with incredible views of mountains in every direction.” It’s 11km each way to the log cabin at a pond, but Greg says you could turn around at the high point about 1km earlier if you are low on energy. 

Difficulty: Challenging | Distance: 22 km round trip | Elevation gain: 400m | Time Needed: 7 hours | Best Time to Go: Mid-July to September | Trail Info: Keystone Standard Basin Recreation Trail | How to get there: Drive Highway 23 north for 50km, then turn right onto Keystone Forest Service Road. Continue up this 4WD-only road for 18km to the parking lot.

Nels Knickers

Step back in time on the Nels Knickers Trail in Mount Revelstoke National Park. Up until the 1960s, Revelstoke was the ski jumping capital of Canada. Norwegian-born Nels Nelson is credited with popularizing the sport in Revelstoke… and setting world records for distance. Parks Canada has done an amazing job of turning the old ski jump into an outdoor exhibit with info plaques, old newspaper clippings, and replica signage. But the best part is the Nels Knickers sculpture that lets you experience what it’s like to stand at the top of the hill, ready to ski jump. It’s an easy walk to the top on the Nels Knickers Trail. But if you want a longer (and steeper!) hike, park at the Nels Nelson Historic Area lower down the mountain, then follow the Nels Nelson Ski Jump trail from the bottom of the jump to the top.

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 0.5km round trip | Elevation gain: 20m | Time Needed: 15 minutes | Best Time to Go: May to September | Trail Info: Mount Revelstoke National Park | How to get there: Take the Meadows in the Sky Parkway exit from Highway 1 just outside of Revelstoke. Drive up the Parkway for 4km to a pullout at a sharp hairpin turn. Park here next to the Nels Nelson sign. | Note: National Park Pass required. Dogs must be on leash.

Balsam Lake

The flat hike around Balsam Lake is a great choice if you need to stretch your legs after driving the Meadows in the Sky Parkway at Mount Revelstoke National Park. The trail starts right beside the parking lot and loops around the tiny lake. In August, the meadows around the lake are carpeted in wildflowers. Look for bright red paintbrush, indigo arctic lupine, yellow mountain arnica, mauve subalpine daisy, and lots more. We brought my mom and she loved taking photos of all the flowers.

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 0.5km loop | Elevation gain: none | Time Needed: 10 minutes | Best Time to Go: July to September | Trail Info: Mount Revelstoke National Park | How to get there: Take the Meadows in the Sky Parkway exit from Highway 1 just outside of Revelstoke. Drive up the Parkway to its end 26km later. | Note: National Park Pass required. No dogs allowed. 

Upper Summit Trail

The Meadows in the Sky Parkway at Mount Revelstoke National Park ends at a parking lot, but a gated service road with a shuttle bus service continues up the mountain towards the summit. Instead of taking the bus, hike the Upper Summit Trail. It climbs steadily, but never steeply through the forest. Look for wildflowers along the way and Columbia ground squirrels scurrying around. Return the way you came, take the shuttle down, or walk down the road to make a loop.

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 2km round trip | Elevation gain: 90 m | Time Needed: 1 hour | Best Time to Go: July to September | Trail Info: Mount Revelstoke National Park | How to get there: Take the Meadows in the Sky Parkway exit from Highway 1 just outside of Revelstoke. Drive up the Parkway to its end 26km later. | Note: National Park Pass required. No dogs allowed. 

Fire Lookout

If you visit Mount Revelstoke National Park, don’t miss a trip to the fire lookout. Built in 1927, this historic structure sits at the peak of Mount Revelstoke. Until the 1980s, a tower person was stationed here to watch for fires in the surrounding mountains. There are incredible views from the lookout, as well as from a few spur trails nearby. You can look all the way down to Lake Revelstoke and across to the Monashee Mountains.

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 1km round trip | Elevation gain: 10 m | Time Needed: 20 minutes | Best Time to Go: July to September | Trail Info: Mount Revelstoke National Park | How to get there: Take the Meadows in the Sky Parkway exit from Highway 1 just outside of Revelstoke. Drive up the Parkway to its end 26km later. From there, walk up the Upper Summit Trail or take the shuttle bus to the Heather Lake stop. | Note: National Park Pass required. No dogs allowed. 

Eva Lake

The hike to Eva Lake takes you deep into the backcountry of Mount Revelstoke National Park. It’s probably my favourite hike in Revelstoke. The trail ambles through wildflower meadows, crosses rocky slopes, and ends at a beautiful sub-alpine lake. Since it starts so high up, the mountain views are incredible from pretty much everywhere along the trail and Eva Lake is particularly spectacular. If you have more time and energy, you can continue onwards to Miller and Jade Lakes. On the day I hiked this trail, we were trying to outrun a thunderstorm so we turned around at Eva Lake. Next time I go to Revelstoke I’d love to spend a night at Eva or Jade Lake – they both have backcountry campsites.

Difficulty: Moderate | Distance: 12km round trip | Elevation gain: 210 m | Time Needed: 6 hours | Best Time to Go: mid-July to September | Trail Info: Mount Revelstoke National Park | How to get there: Take the Meadows in the Sky Parkway exit from Highway 1 just outside of Revelstoke. Drive up the Parkway to its end 26km later. From there, walk up the Upper Summit Trail or take the shuttle bus to the Heather Lake stop. | Note: National Park Pass required. No dogs allowed. 

Giant Cedars Boardwalk

The base of Mount Revelstoke is home to a rare inland temperate rainforest with giant cedar and hemlock trees. I was shocked to see trees that I associate with BC’s coast so far inland! This easy trail in Mount Revelstoke National Park uses a beautiful boardwalk to make a loop through the forest. Interpretive signs along the way help you learn fun facts about the giant trees and the creatures that live in them. There are lots of great spots for photos too.

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 0.5km loop | Elevation gain: 30m | Time Needed: 15 minutes | Best Time to Go: April to October | Trail Info: Mount Revelstoke National Park | How to get there: Head east on Highway 1 for 30km. Turn left into the signed parking lot. | Note: National Park Pass required. Dogs must be on leash.

Loop Brook Trail

This short hike in Glacier National Park takes you along a former railway route. While the hike is short and easy, there are a few short, steep hills. Before a tunnel was blasted through a nearby mountain, trains needed to make a looping route through this valley to slowly gain elevation. Giant stone pillars supported the tracks, high above the creek. Today the bridges and tracks are long gone, but the pillars remain. Interpretive signs along the route give insight into the railway history. 

Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 1.7 km loop | Elevation gain: 40 m | Time Needed: 45 minutes | Best Time to Go: June to September | Trail Info: Glacier National Park | How to get there: Head east from Revelstoke on Highway 1 for 60km. Turn right into the Loop Brook Campground and drive to the parking area at the end of the road. You can also park in the highway pullout just after the campground entrance. | Note: National Park Pass required. Dogs must be on leash.

Balu Pass

Hike up towards the towering peaks of Glacier National Park on the Balu Pass trail. The steep path travels up the Connaught Creek valley, crossing numerous avalanche slopes before ending at Balu Pass. The views of Mount MacDonald across the highway and numerous other glaciated peaks makes the climb worthwhile. The pass gets its name from the Hindi word bhalu, meaning bear. The mountains to the north of the trail are called Grizzly Mountain, Ursus Major, and Ursus Minor. (Ursus is Latin for bear.) The area is prime bear habitat. Make lots of noise, travel in groups, and always carry bear spray. 

Difficulty: Moderate | Distance: 12.8 km round trip | Elevation gain: 779 m | Time Needed: 4-5 hours | Best Time to Go: mid-July to September | Trail Info: Glacier National Park | How to get there: Head east from Revelstoke on Highway 1 for 67km to the Rogers Pass Visitor Centre. The trailhead is at the back of the parking lot. | Note: National Park Pass required. No dogs allowed. Hikers must travel in groups of four or more people.

Hermit Meadows Trail

There are tons of amazing (and steep) hikes in Glacier National Park, and unfortunately, I haven’t had time to do many of them… yet! I asked Robyn from Tourism Revelstoke which trail she recommends in Glacier. She says the Hermit Meadows trail is one of her favourites: “The trail is steep and relentless but fairly short… It provides access to beautiful alpine meadows surrounded by the majestic Swiss Peaks. There is a [backcountry] campground at Hermit Meadows, and you couldn’t ask for better campsite views.” It sounds about as steep as Vancouver’s Grouse Grind… but with waaaay better views. I’m definitely adding it to my list!

Difficulty: Challenging | Distance: 6.4 km round trip | Elevation gain: 819 m | Time Needed: 4-5 hours | Best Time to Go: mid-July to September | Trail Info: Glacier National Park | How to get there: Head east from Revelstoke on Highway 1 for 69km. A few minutes past the Rogers Pass Visitor Centre, turn left into the signed parking lot. | Note: National Park Pass required. Dogs must be on leash.

Other Hikes Near Revelstoke

Although I’ve hiked a LOT in Revelstoke, I haven’t walked all the trails. There are a few more trails in Mount Revelstoke National Park and lots in Glacier National Park that I haven’t done yet. There are also a few epic-sounding hikes to huge peaks like Mount Cartier and Mount Begbie that I’d love to tackle. If you need more hiking ideas, download the Revelstoke Hiking Map.

With 15 trails on this list, I’m sure you’ll find a Revelstoke hike that you’ll love. (Actually… you’ll probably find a few!) Have questions about hikes in Revelstoke? Ask me in the comments as I’m always happy to help.

READ NEXT:

• 15 Things to do in Revelstoke in the Summer
• Things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park, Canada
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip
• Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada
• 30+ Things to Do in Vernon, BC
• Your Guide to Camping and Hiking at Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park
• The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Berg Lake Trail
• 20+ Beautiful Weekend Getaways from Vancouver

The post The Best Hikes in Revelstoke, BC appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

In the last few years I’ve taken two trips to Revelstoke and was surprised at how much I fell in love with the town. (It even made my list of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver and the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures.) Honestly, I even looked at real estate listings (just for fun… I think?)

I had a pretty busy schedule on both of my trips to Revelstoke and did A LOT but I still didn’t manage to see everything. So here’s my big list of 15 things to do in Revelstoke in the summer. I’ve done most of these things but a few will have to wait until next time. (Because there’s definitely going to be a next time!)

Hey there: Thanks so much to Tourism Revelstoke for hosting me in Revelstoke. All opinions in this post are my own. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Revelstoke Basics

What’s with the name? Disappointingly, Revelstoke’s name doesn’t have anything to do with stoking revelry. When the railway across Canada was being built in the 1880s, the Canadian Pacific Railway was nearly bankrupt. Lord Revelstoke, a British banker, invested in the railway and saved the company. So they named the town after him! (Previously, the town was called Farwell after a local man who settled in the area.) Revelstoke has lots of nicknames including “Revy”, “The Stoke” and “Revelstuck” since winter snows can close the roads out of town.

Location: Revelstoke is located in eastern British Columbia, Canada. It’s on the banks of the Columbia River at 480m above sea level. Revelstoke is in a river valley between the Monashee and Selkirk Mountain ranges. The Rocky Mountains are about 100km to the east. Revelstoke is in the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa, Secwepemc, Sinixt, and Okanagan First Nations.

How to Get to Revelstoke: Revelstoke is on highway 1. It’s a 6-hour drive from Vancouver in the west or 4.5 hours from Calgary in the east. Revelstoke has an airport, but it only has charter flights. The closest major airport is in Kelowna where you can get a shuttle van to Revelstoke that takes about 2.5 hours. Revelstoke also makes a great stop on a road trip across Canada.

Revelstoke Weather: Revelstoke has a mountain climate.  Summer temperatures are typically highs of 23-25C and lows of 11C. July and August are the driest months, but Revelstoke has a wetter climate than the nearby Rocky Mountains so it can still have some rainy days in summer.

Population: Officially, Revelstoke has a population of about 7,000 people. However, locals are proud to tell you that cell phone usage data shows that the town has about 14,000 residents in winter.

Revelstoke Map: I made a custom Revelstoke google map for you that includes every single place I mentioned in this post. Click on it to zoom in.

Summer Things to do in Revelstoke

Drive the Meadows in the Sky Parkway

This scenic Mountains in the Sky Parkway inside Mount Revelstoke National Park provides great views with little effort. In the summer, the roadsides and summit area are carpeted with wildflowers. The best time to see the flowers is late July and early August. Be sure to stop at the roadside pullouts for great views of Revelstoke and the surrounding mountains.

The road climbs 1,365m over 26km of switchbacks to Balsam Lake at 1,835m. From here you can take a free shuttle bus to the summit, or hike the 1-kilometre-long Upper Summit Trail. At the top, there are several viewpoints, plus a historic fire lookout. For the best wildflower displays, visit in mid-August. The flowers are spectacular!

Soak in Hot Springs

Western Canada is home to tons of natural hot springs. A few of them are a couple hours drive from Revelstoke. On my recent trip, I soaked in Halfway River Hot Springs. It’s an undeveloped hot spring in a beautiful natural setting. To get there you need to drive 11km up a logging road, then hike 1km down a steep trail. The hot springs are next to a rushing river in gorgeous rock-lined pools.

We also popped in to Halcyon Hot Springs, a spa-like springs, but didn’t have time to go in the pools. There are also a few others hots springs near Revelstoke that I haven’t had a chance to visit yet: Canyon Hot Springs, Crazy Creek Hot Pools, and Nakusp Hot Springs. (I’ve got a whole post about all the hot springs in Canada if you want to visit more springs.)

If you’re on a budget or don’t have time to drive to a hot spring, head to the Revelstoke Aquatic Centre. It was closed for annual maintenance when I was there, but it looks giant! It has a huge pool, a hot tub, a water slide, and a lazy river.

Go for a Hike

On my most recent visit, I dedicated a week to hiking near Revelstoke. I managed to fit in over a dozen hikes from easy to challenging. I walked trails near town, and drove to Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Mount Revelstoke National Park, and Glacier National Park. If you want all the insider info about the hiking in Revelstoke, I’ve got a whole post for you! Check out my guide to the best hikes in Revelstoke. 

Experience the Alpine on the Revelstoke Mountain Resort Gondola

Revelstoke Mountain Resort has the highest vertical drop of any ski resort in North America, at 1,713m. In the summer, you can ride their gondolas up the side of Mount Mackenzie for great views and lift-accessed hiking. Be sure to check out the Glacier View and Revelstoke View lookouts near the top of the Revelation Gondola. The Revelstoke View lookout has an especially great view of the town. I recommend hiking further up the mountain for even better views. All the details are in my guide to the best hikes in Revelstoke. 

Ride the Pipe Mountain Coaster

Opened in 2016, the Pipe Mountain Coaster is consistently rated as the #1 thing to do in Revelstoke. I’d seen photos of it online, but it wasn’t until I rode it, that I truly understood what it was all about. In short: it’s a rollercoaster! You sit strapped inside a one-person cart attached to a monorail-like track. (Hence the “pipe” in the name.) When it’s your turn, you are launched down the 1.2km long track. You can control your speed with an onboard brake, but if you want to go fast, the carts top out at 42km/h! The track has tons of twists and turns so it feels a bit like a wild mouse style coaster. At one point, I even got a little bit of air out of my seat!

The Pipe Coaster is located at Revelstoke Mountain Resort, just south of town. Tickets are $25/ride and each ride takes about 3 minutes.

Chase Waterfalls

As you might know, waterfalls are my favourite. There are three waterfalls near Revelstoke worth seeing, especially after it rains when there’s lots of runoff. You’ll need to hike a few minutes to get to each waterfall, but all three are an easy walk. Find the details in my guide to the best hikes in Revelstoke. 

Discover Revelstoke’s History

The town of Revelstoke has an interesting history, beginning in the 1880s with the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway. When I was in Revelstoke I went on a fabulous historical walking tour with Cathy from the Revelstoke Museum. She told us about Revelstoke’s past as the two rival towns of Farwell and Revelstoke. (Spoiler: Revelstoke won!) It was one of the most interesting things I did in Revelstoke.

If you don’t have time to take a tour, walk around Revelstoke’s downtown on your own. There are lots ofb heritage buildings to see, many of which have informative plaques. Be sure to venture a bit north of downtown to see the courthouse, built in 1912. History buffs should also check out the Revelstoke Museum and Archives or the Revelstoke Railway Museum. They’re both on my list for my next visit to Revelstoke.

Go Mountain Biking

In the summer months, mountain biking is one of the most popular things to do in Revelstoke. And that’s because Revelstoke is a world-famous mountain biking destination. There are tons of trails in a few areas around town. The trails range from easy beginner cross country trails to gnarly double black diamond downhill trails. You can bike right from downtown, set up a shuttle, access alpine trails from the ski resort gondola, or book a heli-biking adventure.

On my first trip to Revelstoke, I explored the easy trails at Mount Macpherson with Matt and Connor from Wandering Wheels. It was great to have local guides show us the trails. Plus they helped me improve my admittedly very mediocre mountain bike skills. (I got quite a few bruises from some epic crashes though!)

On my second trip, my husband and I explored the trails on our own, using the Revelstoke Mountain Bike map and the Trailforks app. I’m still a beginner mountain biker, but my husband Greg and my Dad are not. They rode the spectacular trails alpine Frisby Ridge route just north of town and the brand new lift-accessed Fifty Six Twenty Trail at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort ski hill. It descends 5,620 feet! That’s over 1,700m! They said both were incredible. 

Soar Above Town in a Paraglider

Until going to Revelstoke, I honestly had never thought about going paragliding. If you aren’t sure what paragliding is, you’re not alone. Basically, it’s jumping off a tall mountain with a parachute wing attached to you. You use the wing to float and glide safely down to the ground. Beginners get strapped to an experienced pilot for a tandem paragliding flight.

Revelstoke has the highest paraglide launch in North America at an elevation of 2,225m! You take a gondola up the ski hill, then climb into a van to go even higher up the mountain. After take-off, you soar for at least 30 minutes before landing next to the Columbia River down in the valley below. If you want, the pilot will do flips and other acrobatics. You might even get to fly the wing yourself! I expected the whole thing to be scary, and while it was a bit nerve-wracking at first, mostly it was quite peaceful. And the views were incredible!

However, if you have a weak stomach like me, you may want to take some anti-nausea meds beforehand. Real talk: I felt a bit nauseous during the flight, and it got worse as we began to land. I think if I had taken some anti-nausea meds, I wouldn’t have had an issue and others in my group didn’t feel sick at all.

To book a trip, get in touch with Revelstoke Paragliding. I flew with Brad, who was amazing! He made sure I felt safe, let me fly the wing for a long time and tailored the flight to minimize my nausea. I definitely recommend him!

Go Paddling

There are lots of lakes near Revelstoke including Lake Revelstoke, the Arrow Lakes, and Williamson Lake. You can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards to get out on the water.

Raft Some Whitewater

If you are more adventurous, sign up for a whitewater rafting trip on the raging Illecillewaet River. And if that sounds too hardcore, you can float mellow sections of the Columbia River instead.

Explore BC’s Tallest Treehouse

Head to the Enchanted Forest 25 minutes west of Revelstoke to experience BC’s Tallest Treehouse. I’ve seen photos of this on Instagram, but sadly I’ve never had time to stop. It looks incredible. The treehouse is part of a larger fairytale forest experience aimed at children that includes over 350 folk art figurines and their homes. The whole thing is set in a magical green rainforest of old-growth cedars.

Drink Craft Beer and Spirits

For a small town, Revelstoke has a surprisingly large number of craft breweries and distilleries. There is a distillery and two breweries in town! They all focus on local ingredients, but each has its own flair.

As a gin-lover, I was really excited to try the award-winning gin at Monashee Spirits. It might just be my new favourite craft gin! We chatted with Josh, the owner who told us his story. He started as a welder and got interested in distilling when someone asked him to help weld a backyard still. He’s been perfecting his gin ever since. His tasting room has a full bar with a fun cocktail menu. If you’re looking for drinks in Revelstoke, this is THE spot. 

Rumpus Beer Company just opened in 2019. We chatted with Fred, the founder about how he had wanted to open a microbrewery for over a decade. We tasted a flight of all of his beers and I have to admit that while I’m not a huge beer drinker, I was really impressed. The beers at Rumpus are designed to be sophisticated and nuanced, but still easy to drink. The way Fred explained it is that Revelstoke is a town where you go play outside in the mountains with your friends all day, and afterward all you want to do is go drink a couple of beers in a fun atmosphere. He wants his beers to match that Revelstoke attitude. I think he’s definitely hit the mark.

I didn’t have time to visit the original craft brewery in Revelstoke, Mt. Begbie Brewing. It’s been around since 1996 and has won tons of craft beer awards. They run tours and have a tasting room where you can grab a pint or fill your growler. 

Go Shopping

Revelstoke’s compact downtown is home to lots of fun shops. If you need outdoor equipment, there are lots of bike shops and sports stores. Check out the boutiques for handmade and local goods. I didn’t have much time to shop in Revelstoke, but I did do some window shopping. Lovemaking Designs has some really cool screen printed designs and jewelry.

If you visit on a Saturday, don’t miss the Revelstoke Farmer’s Market in Grizzly Plaza right downtown. There are lots of fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers. You can also find baked goods, jams, honey, plants, knitting, and crafts. 

Eat Amazing Food

Revelstoke isn’t known as a foodie destination… yet! It definitely should be since almost everything I ate in Revelstoke was amazing. Obviously, I haven’t had time to try every single restaurant in Revelstoke, but here are a few of my picks:

Fine Dining: 112 Restaurant & Lounge – An upscale restaurant at The Regent Hotel, the 112 has classics like steak and West Coast-style fare like salmon and halibut. The chef also moonlights as a tandem paragliding pilot (hi Brad!), so you know the dishes will have an adventurous flair.

Casual Comfort Food: Old School Eatery – Located in an old elementary school, they describe themselves as serving old school classics with a new school twist. I had a fried chicken sandwich with a delicious Korean-style sauce that was better than anything I’ve had in the big city. We like this place so much that we went twice on our most recent trip. Brunch on the weekends is also amazing. 

Pub for Apres Hiking/Mountain Biking/Anything: Big Eddy Pub – Located across the river from town, you can literally roll right downhill from the Mount Macpherson mountain bike trails into the pub. It’s a popular place with locals and outdoorsy visitors and they won’t bat an eye if you show up covered in mud.

Funky Mexican: Taco Club – A fun spot right downtown serving up giant burritos and tasty tacos. They also have killer margaritas. Their patio is a great spot for people watching too.

Sandwiches: La Baguette – This bakery has amazing sandwiches on homemade bread. They have a location near downtown and one at Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Another great option for a hiking lunch.

Hipster Coffee: Dose Coffee  – A fun and funky hipster-style coffee shop with great espresso based drinks. They have great breakfast too. 

Where to Stay in Revelstoke

There are lots of options for accommodation in Revelstoke. Here a few of my Revelstoke hotel recommendations:

Upscale Hotel: The Regent – I stayed at this family-run hotel during my trip to Revelstoke. It has a great location downtown. Over the years the owners have renovated a few different adjacent heritage buildings to create a modern, yet classic building. Breakfast is also included and it was one of the better hotel breakfasts I’ve had in North America.

Boutique Hotel: The Explorer’s Society Hotel – We learned about this hotel on our heritage walking tour of downtown. Built in 1911, this historic brick building was recently restored and converted into a hotel. The entire space is modern yet outdoorsy, with lots of exposed brick and weathered wood. My parents stayed here recently and loved it. My dad loved the lounge area for watching the hockey game and my mom’s favourite part was the rooftop patio.

Budget Hotel: The Cube Hotel – Part hotel, part hostel, the Cube Hotel has a stand-out cubist exterior. It also has lots of adventure-friendly features on the inside like a gear drying room, a lounge, and a shared kitchen so you can cook your own dinner.

Cabins: Boulder Mountain Resort – These cabins just outside of town are super cute with a cozy tiny-house vibe. But they still have full sized kitchens, a king-size bed and a barbecue. I spent a few nights here recently and was really impressed. 

Camping – There are lots of places to camp in Revelstoke. In town you can stay at a few privately run campgrounds: Williamson Lake Campground, Revelstoke KOA Campgrounds and Cabins, or Lamplighter Campground. The Snowforest Campground at Mount Revelstoke National Park just opened in 2020 and I was lukcy enough to spend a few nights there. It has the nicest bathroom/shower building of any campground I’ve ever been to! If you’d rather stay in a provincial park, Blanket Creek and Martha Creek Provincial Parks are only a 20-30 minute drive away.

So there you have it: 15 things to do in Revelstoke in summer. I think I’ll have to go back in the winter to make another “things to do in Revelstoke” list. I hear the snow is epic! What’s your favourite Revelstoke activity? Tell me in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• The Best Hikes in Revelstoke, BC
• Things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park, Canada
• 22 Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures
• Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada
• 30+ Things to Do in Vernon, BC
• 15 Best Things to Do in Canmore in Winter
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip

The post 15 Things to do in Revelstoke in the Summer appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.