Best Ever Things to Do in Revelstoke

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Revelstoke is home to many incredible hiking trails. Realistically, what do you expect with multiple national parks, lakeside trails, and a greenbelt that passes through the town?

If you’re not sure which hikes are worth your time, we’ve created a shortlist that will have you pulling on those hiking boots and hitting the trails in no time! Whether you’re a total newbie or an experienced trekking enthusiast, there’s something in this subsection for everyone.

Oh – and it’s worth noting that most hiking trails in the national parks require a Parks Canada Pass. So, just be aware of this before visiting and plan accordingly!

If it’s excellent hiking trails that you’re after, you can’t do better than Mount Revelstoke National Park.

There are several trails in the area that are worth exploring, and they vary in difficulty from casual strolls to steep hill climbs. With the whole park spanning 260 square kilometres, there’s certainly plenty of room on the trails for everyone!

If you’re in the parks for sightseeing, we recommend heading on the Eva Lake trail or the Balsam Lake hike. Both offer immense views of the mountains and should be manageable for most abilities.

Prefer to venture deep into the lush forest and marvel at the park’s towering cedar trees? Don’t miss the 500m Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail!

Address: Meadows in the Sky Pkwy, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0

Eva Lake Trial

The Eva Lake trail tends to be slightly more popular than other trails in this area, as it heads through the backcountry parts of Mount Revelstoke National Park. Passing through rocky slopes, wildflower meadows, and bringing you right to the lake, it’s one of the park’s more aesthetic trails!

Balsam Lake Hike

Not up to the rockier terrain of the Eva Lake trial? No worries – head to the almost-entirely flat Balsam Lake trail to get your steps in!

Although this trail is stunning at any time of year, it’s particularly gorgeous during the summer months. Blanketed by wildflowers (including indigo arctic lupines and subalpine daisies!), it makes an impressive backdrop for a photograph.

Nels Nelson Trail

If you’d like to be transported back in time, explore the Nels Nelson trail. Although it’s only a 1.1km hike, it leads to an impressive statue of Nels Nelson – the man responsible for popularizing ski jumping in Revelstoke! We understand that it may not sound like much to every visitor, but it’s worth the 15-minute detour – trust us!

Located a mere 25 minutes from town, Glacier National Park remains one of Revelstoke’s top hiking spots. It’s not as popular as Mount Revelstoke National Park, so you’ll find fewer crowds and be able to move at your own pace.

There are several incredible hikes on offer here, but we recommend checking out the Hermit Trail, Perley Rock, Abbot Ridge, Asulkan Valley, and Mount Sir Donald. While you’re here, we also suggest carving out time to check out Avalanche Lake. Home to the clearest azure waters we’ve ever seen, it’s well worth visiting!

Each trail we mentioned above offers a unique view over the surrounding valleys. What’s more, they all have varying degrees of elevation. Therefore, you can easily pre-plan and find the trail that best suits your fitness ability!

Address: Glacier National Park, British Columbia

With its gushing waters, impressive rock formations, and layers of drenched moss, it’s unsurprising that a hike to Sutherland Falls remains one of the most popular things to do in Revelstoke. Located just 25 minutes from Revelstoke off Highway 23, it shouldn’t take you long to get here from the centre of the town!

Now, we don’t like to play favourites when it comes to the best waterfalls in Revelstoke, but we’d say that Sutherland falls is probably the prettiest. So, if you’re thinking of missing Sutherland Falls off your itinerary – don’t!
You’ll almost certainly regret it.

Address: BC-23, British Columbia V0E 2S0

Do you want to go on an amazing hike without leaving the main town? Not a problem – simply hop on the Greenbelt Trail!

Clocking in at around 7km, the trail takes approximately 2 hours to complete and is ideal for those who are new to the area. The trail itself follows the perimeter of the Illecillewaet and Columbia River and is frequented by local dog walkers and mountain bikers.

You can complete the entire stretch, or just traipse across a small section to get your legs moving. While you’re walking, keep an eye out for Mount McPherson, Mount McKenzie, Mount Begbie, and Mount Revelstoke which are all visible at certain points on the trail.

Boasting a unique split waterfall, the Begbie Falls trail is one of the finest hiking trails in the Revelstoke area. With a gorgeous woodland landscape and minimal elevation changes, this route is an excellent option for hikers of all skill levels.

Although most people shouldn’t struggle with the 240m elevation gain on this trail, parts of the route can become slippery and difficult to cross if the weather gets wet. Therefore, we recommend wearing a high-quality pair of walking boots and taking your time on the trail.

If it’s your first time in Revelstoke, we suggest spending a decent amount of time just sitting by Begbie Falls. The sound of water cascading onto the rocks is deeply calming, and you can even continue along the trail towards the Begbie Falls Recreation Site to reward yourself with a spot of swimming!

If you’d like to learn more about the beautiful waterfalls in Revelstoke, simply read our in-depth guide here!

Address: Begbie Rd, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0

Revelstoke is regarded for its exceptional mountain biking opportunities, so we recommend checking out the area’s many trails while you’re here!

You can certainly head to areas like Whistler for mountain biking, but we find that the lower crowd levels in Revelstoke make it superior if you’d like to get sightseeing done at the same time!

Although there are several trails available to visitors, we’d say that the Upper and Lower Mount McPherson and Martha Creek trails are the town’s best offerings. If you head out in the early summer, you’ll be met with plenty of tacky dirt for the ultimate downhill adventure!

Alternatively, you can head further uphill on the Revelstoke Chairlift for more advanced runs. Here, you’ll find the Fifty Six Twenty Mountain Biking Trail which is said to be one of the longest flow trails ever constructed at 15km.

Featuring tabletop jumps, step-ups, and challenging berms, you’re sure to have the ride of your life!

Spanning 1.4km, the popular Revelstoke Mountain Coaster offers outstanding views of Revelstoke’s beautiful glades and vistas.

Believe it or not, your tiny car will reach speeds of up to 42km/h while you’re riding, so hold onto your hats as you try and navigate the course’s many twists and turns! You can let the coaster run wild, but if you’d prefer to dial things down, simply grab hold of the brakes and enjoy the ride at your own pace.

Before dragging the kiddos along, make sure that they’re old enough to ride. Kids under 3 are strictly not allowed to ride, but those between the ages of 3 and 8 can join their parents as a duo. If you’re over 8, you’re free to ride solo!

Address: 2950 Camozzi Rd, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S1

If you’re looking for weird and wonderful things to do in Revelstoke, be sure to stop by the Three Valley Gap Ghost Town. Replicating the gold rush era of the late 1800s with authentic shops and buildings, this area aims to take visitors back in time. Costing just $14CAD for adults and $6CAD for kiddos, it’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon between May and October.

While you’re here, be sure to stop by the Monashee Mining Co., the Antique Auto Museum, and the Railway Roundhouse. Each offering a unique glimpse into days gone by, this unique attraction is well worth a spot on your itinerary!

Address: 8903 Trans-Canada Hwy, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0

Okay, so this may not be a traditional forest, but Revelstoke’s Enchanted Forest is one of the area’s most captivating attractions. With its otherworldly cottages, twinkling lights, and a rather impressive treehouse, this is one of the things to do in Revelstoke that’s perfect for kids.

Created by retired couple Doris and Ernest Needham, this place has been open to the public since the 1960s. If you look closely, you’ll spot miniature figurines inspired by fairy-tale characters dotted throughout the attraction!

Located just 30 minutes from central Revelstoke and costing a mere $14CAD for adults and $9 for children, it’s a unique and magical way to spend an afternoon.

Address: 7060 Trans-Canada Hwy, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0

Are you searching for things to do in Revelstoke with the kids? If so, you’ll want to work the Aerial Adventure Park into your itinerary.

Like many of the other attractions in the area, the Aerial Adventure Park is run by the Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Giving tiny tykes and fully-grown adults the chance to let loose on climbing frames, advanced obstacles, and a tricky ropes course, it promises to be a lot of fun for the whole family!

If you’re planning to visit several attractions at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort, we highly recommend purchasing a Play All Day Pass. This will give you access to 2 coaster rides, the Aerial Park, gondola hiking and sightseeing, axe-throwing, and disc golf.

As a ticket for the Aerial Park will set you back $29CAD and the all-inclusive ticket is $69CAD, we’d say that the extra investment is worth thinking about.

Address: 2950 Camozzi Rd, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S1

To spice up your sightseeing in Revelstoke, why not add a kayaking adventure to your itinerary? Not only are the waters in Revelstoke easily accessible, but you’ll get wonderful views of the Columbia Mountains as a backdrop on any excursion – talk about a win-win!

One of the best providers of tours in the area is Natural Escapes Kayaking. Voted the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice in 2020, it’s unsurprising that their tours are fully booked during a typical season.

You can choose from several of their tours depending on what you’d like to see while you’re in Revelstoke. The Panoramic Lake & Mountain Views tour takes guests around the Columbia Mountains and Valley (and is excellent for wildlife spotting!), while the Waterfall Tour and Cascadia Tour will take you around Revelstoke’s many glacial areas.

Whichever option you choose, you’re unlikely to be disappointed!

Address: 1115 Pine Ridge Crescent, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S1

If you’re willing to drive an hour away from Revelstoke, you’ll find the gorgeous Halcyon Resort and Hot Springs. The water at these hot springs is second-to-none, and you’ll get incredible views of the Monashee Mountains and Upper Arrow Lake from both Lithia-rich pools.

To spice up your visit, round off a trip to the hot springs with a visit to their cold pool for a touch of cryo-therapy. While you’re at it, drop the kids off at the nearby splash pool to work off some energy before bedtime.

Talk about blissful!

Address: 5655 BC-23, Nakusp, BC V0G 1R0

Halfway Hot Springs

Another popular hot spring near Revelstoke is Halfway Hot Springs. Located on the riverside, these springs offer visitors a sublime view of the surrounding area. Before slipping on your swimsuit, be aware that these springs are slightly harder to reach and are an hour and a half from Revelstoke.

Although you’ll be able to access the area freely during the summer, the access road is shut during the winter months. This means that the only possible entry point is a 12km hike away from the nearest road! To avoid getting frostbitten, we recommend visiting Halfway Hot Springs during Revelstoke’s balmier summers.

Address: Central Kootenay K, BC V0G 1R1

Crazy Creek Resort

For somewhere closer to the centre of Revelstoke, check out the Crazy Creek Resort that’s approximately 30 minutes west of the main town. The resort is home to 4 sprawling pools, and you can make use of them for just $15.95CAD if you’re not a guest!

Address: 6162 Trans-Canada Hwy, Malakwa, BC V0E 2J0

We all know that skiing is one of the most popular things to do in Revelstoke, but you can also get whisked away into the mountains on a high-flying helicopter for a more unique perspective.

Not only will you get to see the mountains from an unbeatable vantage point, but most tours will take you into backcountry areas that are usually inaccessible from the slopes. Going on a heli-skiing expedition doesn’t come cheap though; with most tours starting at the $1000CAD mark, it’s certainly not light on the pocketbook.

However, with so many excellent backcountry trails in Revelstoke, it offers one of the best heli-skiing experiences in the world!

If you don’t fancy embarking on a massive hike to get into the mountains, we highly recommend checking out the Revelstoke Revelation Gondola. Taking visitors on a 20-minute ride 5,500 feet into the mountains, the gondola is a nifty way to see the best of Revelstoke.

While you’re here, head to the Glacier View Deck and the Revelstoke View Deck. Both offer unique aerial views of the area, and you’ll be able to see everything from the Monashee Mountains to the famous glacial plateaus.

Once you’ve had your fill of the impressive views, head to the Mackenzie Outpost to recoup. Serving up the best burgers in Revelstoke, local craft beers, and a selection of tea and coffees, it’s an excellent way to spend the afternoon.

Seriously, this place takes dinner with a view to new heights.

Address: 2950 Camozzi Rd, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S1

If you’re really looking to take to the skies, why not soar above it all with a paragliding trip? Revelstoke boasts one of the tallest paragliding launches in North America at 2,225 metres, making it one of the best locations in British Columbia for gliders.

Most tours are 30 minutes or so and offer incredible views of the mountains and Columbia River. You’ll be accompanied by a pilot on your journey, but confident gliders can take the reigns and fly the wing for a short period if they wish. Although the height aspect may put some visitors off, we’d say that this was one of the things to do in Revelstoke that shouldn’t be missed.

Just as a heads up – because you’ll be at the mercy of the wind, we recommend taking some anti-nausea medication before leaving your accommodation for the day. You won’t be knocked around per se, but the strange sensation of floating is probably not something you’re used to!

If you’re not sure who to book an excursion with, we highly recommend checking in with the folks at Revelstoke Paragliding. Boasting several years in the business and a team of experienced pilots, you’re bound to feel safe with them!

Thanks to its gorgeous vistas and snow-capped peaks, one of the most popular things to do in Revelstoke is golfing with a view!

We highly recommend heading down to the Revelstoke Golf Club & Driving Range for a challenging day on the green. Lined with trees and offering an unbeatable backdrop of Mount Begbie, this full-length course is ideal for all abilities. If you’d prefer to practice your shots instead of taking on the entire course, why not head to the chipping and putting green?

Once you’ve had your fill of golf, head to The Clubhouse for a refreshing cocktail and a bite to eat. Serving appetizing tasting plates, salads, burgers, and everything in between, it’s the perfect place to refuel.

Address: 171 Columbia Park Dr, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0

Are you a fan of flyfishing? If so, you need to try out your angling skills in the freshwater areas around Revelstoke! The town boasts over 200 rivers, creeks, and streams that are brimming with freshwater fish, making this an ideal destination for both amateurs and professionals.

If you’re looking for giant bull trout, then you should stick to Lake Revelstoke, Kinbasket Lake, or Upper Arrow Lake. Should you be here during mid-summer or early fall, you’ll almost certainly catch plenty of cutthroat and rainbow trout too!

Before you grab your trusty rod and bait, you’ll need to make sure you have the proper licenses to fish in BC waters. Don’t worry though, a recreational fishing license is easy to purchase online or in person from licensed vendors. Depending on how often you plan to visit the area, you can choose single-day licenses or ones that span an entire year!

Wildlife enthusiasts will love meandering through the wilds to catch glimpses of the many inhabitants. Though the National Park offers the best opportunities to see the animals, it still takes more than a little luck to catch up with some of our furry friends. Still, several species call Revelstoke home.

Large Mammals

Perhaps the most exciting find would be the mountain caribou that roam Mount Revelstoke National Park since the species recently made the national “threatened” list. You may have slightly better luck spotting a black bear, grizzly, wolverine, mountain goat, moose, or coyote.

Small Mammals

Some of the most amusing creatures in Revelstoke are the squirrels. Several species occupy the region, including Columbia ground-squirrels and American red squirrels. There are also plenty of species of bats, shrews, voles, and mice scampering around!

Bird-Watching

While it’s not always easy to catch sight of some mammals, some areas make excellent bird-watching sites. Try to visit from May to June to see the most variety, including various warblers, tanager, and chickadees.

For those willing to adventure to higher elevations, you may want to visit during July and August for a chance to see golden eagles and rosy finches.

If you’re visiting Revelstoke during the winter, then skiing is something that needs to be at the top of your list of things to do in the area. At a vertical elevation of 5,620 feet, you can whizz down the mountainside at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Boasting 3,121 acres of terrain (and perfect, fluffy snow!), there’s no better destination for a ski enthusiast in British Columbia.

Should you be new to the game, never fear! Simply book a ski lesson at the resort’s Snow School. Teaching you basics that will help you feel confident on the trails, the folks at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort are sure to make it a vacation to remember

One of the best things to do in Revelstoke during the wintertime is snowshoeing. Although it may not inspire the same level of excitement as double-black ski runs, you’ll still be able to explore the best of Revelstoke’s snow-covered mountains without any skiing prowess whatsoever – hurrah!

There are several incredible snowshoeing hikes that you can do, including the 7 Bridges snowshoeing trail, Sutherland Falls, the Nes Nelson Ski Jump, and Inspiration Woods. Of course, there are others, but these are the ones that will give you excellent views while being manageable enough for newbies.

If you’re keen on snowshoeing but don’t have the right gear, check out Revelstoke Snowshoe Company (who also offer an additional tour of the Selkirk Mountains) or Skookum Revelstoke Bike & Ski Ltd. Both are reputable local businesses that will have you suited and booted in no time.

If you’re an accomplished skier, then we highly recommend trying out cat skiing in Revelstoke. Thanks to the 12m of snow that this BC area tends to see each winter, you can strap on your skis and go for a backcountry adventure in Revelstoke’s lesser-known parts!

Unlike typical ski runs, cat skiing areas are usually untouched. This means that you’ll be the first to hit the powdery snow of the wilder mountainous areas. To get to the ski terrain, you’ll have to hop on a cat ski instead of a chair lift which will bring you to Revelstoke’s most remote areas.

Then, you can shred the snow to your heart’s content!

For obvious reasons, you’ll need to head out with an official group to make the most of your adventure. Not only will this keep you safe, but you’ll know which areas are worth exploring and which can be missed.

One of the best cat ski tours in the area is offered by K3 Cat Ski. Although you’ll need to head 30 minutes outside of Revelstoke to meet them at Last Spike Lodging, they offer an excellent course, meals, equipment, and small group skiing for the best experience possible.

f you’re not a fan of skiing, why not take to the snow with dog sledding instead? Not only are the pups that pull the sleds adorable, but cuddling beneath a blanket is the perfect way to explore Revelstoke’s expansive, snowy terrain in relative comfort.

Tours are run by Revelstoke Dogsled Adventures every winter, and they’ve been operating since 2009. As a family-run enterprise, you can expect top-tier service and the ultimate in guest satisfaction. What’s more, the dogs are all considered part of the family, so you’ll get to know them all by name!

On your tour, you can either sit back and relax or try your hand at mushing! Not only will the sledding experience itself be unforgettable, but you’ll learn plenty about the history of the sport. Just don’t forget warm boots, appropriate thermal clothing, and your camera, or you may end up miserably shivering away as you race through the backcountry – no bueno!

Just as a heads up, a typical dogsled tour lasts for around 3-4 hours and comes in at $259CAD for individuals and $389CAD for groups of two. Not exactly cheap, but well worth it in our opinion.

Address: 1416 Mt Begbie Rd, Revelstoke, BC V0E 3K0

To perform your best tricks on the slopes, you’ll need to remain limber and in the zone. To maximize your potential, why not head to one of the many yoga studios in this area? Considered one of the best things to do in Revelstoke for ski enthusiasts, you’ll find several practices in the vicinity just waiting for your patronage.

For an excellent all-around experience, we suggest checking out Alchemy Studio or Balu Yoga and Wellness. Both boasting several years in the business and offering a variety of yoga disciplines, you should be able to find an ideal match.

Alchemy Studio: 1300 King St, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0

Balu Yoga: 414 1 St W, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S0

If you’re looking to take a load off, why not head to the Revelstoke Mountain Resort’s Sointula Massage & Day Spa? Located just a short walk from the nearby gondola, this luxurious spa is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a heavy day on the slopes.

Among the vast menu of treatments, you’ll find a Hot Stone Massage, Organic Sea Salt Body Polish, and a Nourishing Seaweed Body Wrap that will reinvigorate tired skin. If you’d like to give your hands and feet some TLC, opt for a Classic Manicure or Pedicure!

Lovely.

Address: 2950 Camozzi Rd Suite #2222, Revelstoke, BC V0E 2S3

Should you be unfamiliar with Canadian history, you may not know that the Canadian Pacific Railway is hugely important to the area. If you’d like to learn more about Revelstoke’s fascinating past, we highly recommend adding the Railway Museum to your list of things to do in Revelstoke.

This is one of our favourite attractions for little ones, as it offers several hands-on exhibits that allow you to touch machinery and learn about how the railway functions. Not only that, but you’ll be able to see an old-fashioned locomotive from the 1940s!

Insightful and tonnes of fun, this place deserves a spot on anyone’s Revelstoke itinerary!

You’ll probably be in Revelstoke for the skiing or hiking opportunities, but there’s also plenty to love about the downtown area!

Far quieter than equivalent BC skiing towns, you can take in the charming boutiques, stop by the local bakeries and cafes, or simply revel in the incredible views without brushing elbows with everyone you meet.

If you’re looking for souvenirs, we recommend checking out local goods stores like Love Making Designs. Located on Mackenzie Avenue, this charming boutique sells unique clothing and prints that perfectly capture the spirit of Revelstoke. Alternatively, order a piping-hot cup of coffee or a sparkling cocktail and spend an afternoon people-watching!

There is always something fun going on in Revelstoke.

Whether that’s live music, the famous Revelstoke Wildflower Festival, or the Women’s Enduro race, you’ll want to keep tabs on the area’s local events.

Tourism Revelstoke’s website has an excellent list that runs through featured events, daily goings-on, and weekly soirees for tourists and locals alike. Whatever you enjoy doing, there’s sure to be something on their extensive list that piques your interest!

What’s on Your List of Best Things To Do in Revelstoke?

We hope that our extensive list of things to do in Revelstoke has given you plenty of inspiration for your next vacation! As you can see, this charming mountainside town isn’t all about ski runs!

Whether you choose to go on a wintertime adventure or want to hike along the expansive local trails, you should find enough on our list to pad a rather hefty itinerary.

Have you been to Revelstoke recently? If so, we’d love to hear about your experience!

Don’t forget to check out Best Ever Guide to Revelstoke Camping, too!