As winter’s chill fades and B.C. bursts into vibrant spring hues, the call of the wild becomes irresistible for outdoor enthusiasts of all types. While Vancouver has its own charms, a journey to Valemount—a hidden gem cradled by the Rocky, Monashee and Cariboo Mountains—offers an unparalleled escape into nature, no matter the season.
About a 7-hour drive from Vancouver, easily accessible via the Hwy 5 and Hwy 1 corridors, Valemount is situated amongst three mountain ranges and is surrounded by lush forests and pristine rivers every way you turn. While the cold weather months offer an incredible array of outdoor activities ranging from ice skating to ice fishing, cat-skiing, heli-skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and dog-sledding, the upcoming spring months offer even greater access to the water, land and towering mountain peaks that make the region so special.
Let the mountains move you
With the arrival of spring, Valemount's trails beckon hikers of all levels. The thaw reveals paths adorned with budding flora, offering treks that range from leisurely walks to challenging hikes.
A must-visit is Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famed for its stunning scenery and challenging hikes, it’s a haven for mountaineers and casual explorers. If wildlife spotting is on your agenda, the RW Starratt Wildlife Sanctuary (Cranberry Marsh) offers a peaceful 6km loop where you can observe birds and other wildlife. Pro tip: Climb one of the viewing towers for a breathtaking panoramic view of the marsh.
Something in the water
Along with the annual thaw comes the glacial melt. Adventure-seekers can visit any of the area’s waterfalls to see them in their most glorious, roaring state as they come back to life for spring. Of course, there are plenty of other ways to experience the water, including kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, fishing, canoeing and adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting.
Off the beaten path
From golfing in one of the province’s most scenic golf courses to exploring thrilling ATV trails, Valemount offers endless ways to explore its diverse terrain. If you’re looking for a truly immersive experience, horseback riding is a must. Local ranches like Cowgirl Up Adventures provide guided trail rides that take you deep into the backcountry, where you’ll ride beneath peaks and through wildflower-filled meadows.
We’ve teamed up with Tourism Valemount to give one lucky reader the chance to win a two-night getaway worth $840! The grand prize includes:
- Two-night stay for two at the Best Western in Valemount (Must be redeemed before December 31, 2025)
- $40 gift card to BoShay’s Bistro
- $25 gift card to Glacier Fire Pizza
- $25 gift card to Three Ranges Brewing Company
- A delicious complimentary breakfast
Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, Valemount’s village is filled with local charm, warm hospitality and unique cultural experiences. Stop by Mountain Driftwood Gallery to admire works by Bonnie Marklund and other Robson Valley artisans, or unwind with an all-natural wellness treatment at Emerald Earth Organic Spa. Of course, no visit is complete without sampling local flavours—from craft brews at Three Ranges Brewing Company to cozy cafés and independently owned eateries, where each bite is as memorable as the view.
Whether you’re hiking dynamic summer trails, soaking in the golden hues of fall, skiing through fresh winter powder, or enjoying the blossoms of spring, each season reveals a new side of Valemount’s breathtaking landscape, offering an opportunity for repeat visits and fresh discoveries, year-after-year.
To learn more about all there is to explore and experience in Valemount, including trip itineraries and information on where to eat, stay and play, visit visitvalemount.ca or download the Tourism Valemount app on your Apple or Android device.
