As we look ahead to staying close to B.C. this summer, thrilling and beautiful local travel destinations that are remote enough but still within reach from the city seem hard to come by. But think again!
Just a 6 hour drive from Vancouver, Revelstoke is a road trip destination that’s closer than you may have previously thought. In fact, getting there is part of the adventure, as the journey along the Trans Canada Highway takes you through the Okanagan Valley to the mountain community nestled between the Selkirk and Monashee mountains.
With an unparalleled alpine setting for hiking, biking, paddling, and other activities, what sets Revelstoke apart from other B.C. mountain towns is that this outdoor playground offers plenty of wide open spaces to recharge, connect, and have real adventures with your loved ones for a 3-5 night stay.
Hiking at Mount Revelstoke National Park. Photo: Tom Poole
With Mount Revelstoke National Park and Glacier National Park in its backyard, Revelstoke is the perfect base from which to embark on adventurous alpine activities. From beginner level to extreme, Revelstoke has an abundance of things to do on land and on water for anyone and everyone.
Revelstoke has stunning hiking and biking trails for all abilities. The Meadows in the Sky Parkway at Mount Revelstoke is the starting point of a short route that leads to a summit with scenic views. Nearby, a longer trail weaves through the gorgeous rainforest before ending at the breathtaking Eva Lake and Jade Lake. If you’re looking for a challenging hike with epic rewards, the journey to Perley Rock in Glacier National Park will take you through glaciers, waterfalls, and crystal blue alpine lakes.
One can’t miss summer attraction iis the Pipe Mountain Coaster, a family-friendly ride with 1.4 km of twists and turns across ski runs, between glades, and through a tunnel at speeds of up to 42 kilometres per hour.
For a mountain bike ride you won’t forget, the new Fifty Six Twenty intermediate trail offers 5,620 vertical feet of fun, flowy mountain biking. Then, take your two wheeler over to Mount Macpherson to check out the incredible trails, such as the 6km Flowdown singletrack and the Stimulus Trail loop. On Frisby Ridge, the climb through the sub alpine rainforest to the alpine lakes is especially impressive during summertime’s wildflower season.
To cool off on a hot summer day, you can go for a dip or a trip in one of Revelstoke’s many lakes and rivers. Rent a paddleboard, kayak, or canoe and explore the hidden coves and waterfalls along the shoreline of Lake Revelstoke. For a great spot to swim in, Martha Creek has a dedicated area for swimming just off the beach. Another local swimming hole fan favorite is Williamson Lake, home of the warmest water in Revelstoke.
Those who want to engage in some exhilarating watersports can spend the day white white rafting in the raging rapids of the mighty Illecillewaet River, which heads through Mount Revelstoke National Park.
Eva Lake at Mount Revelstoke National Park. Photo: Tom Poole
Set against a backdrop of mountain views and the summer sun, downtown Revelstoke is home to great restaurants and patios, a budding brewing and distilling scene for local cocktails and brews, and unique shopping experiences. From sipping on sampler flights at Mount Begbie Brewing to indulging in good eats and local history at the Old School Eatery, this charming and diverse small rail town is the place to wind down and unwind for a little peace and quiet in mountain tranquility after an action-packed day.
Revelstoke is committed to being a safe destination that takes the public health of travellers and locals seriously. To find out more about how they plan to elevate their high standards of hygiene and cleanliness procedures, read about their Revy Rules.
At Revelstoke, you will revel in everything this well-rounded destination has to offer as a world-class local travel experience this summer!
For more info, visit seerevelstoke.com.
