Conquering a peak is not just an experience, it’s an exhibition of raw exhilaration and breath-taking 360° views. This is not a mere walk in the park, it’s a badge of honour demonstrating unmatched stamina. Feel your heart race, your calves burn – for in the challenge, lies the thrill!
Taking that final step, reaching the peak where no higher ground exists – it is an achievement like no other. It kindles a profound sense within us, unmatched by anything we’ve ever experienced. Some might say it’s the reward of an unrestricted view, while others argue it’s the triumphant feeling of vanquishing the forces of nature.
I stand by a simple motto, “Every challenge is an opportunity in disguise,” no matter the vertical height, we’re scaling it. Remember, the adventure lies in the journey and not the destination. So buckle up and conquer the “top 10 peaks” in the Kootenays. The mountains are calling; should we keep them waiting?
#1 – IDAHO PEAK IN THE SLOCAN VALLEY
Idaho Peak can be accessed via the Wakefield Trail, near Silverton. This 14+ km (round-trip) is generally considered a challenging route, as it takes an average of 9+ hours to complete. The views of the Slocan Valley are spectacular and worth the trek.
(The easier route, via Sandon, to the trailhead, a 2-km hike to the peak, is not accessible, as the road has been washed out and remains closed.)
#2 – MT. BEGBIE SUMMIT IN REVELSTOKE
This hike is a rite of passage in Revelstoke. Views are limited on the way up but you will be rewarded when you reach the top.
#3 – MT. BURGESS IN YOHO NATIONAL PARK
This standalone peak rises over the iconic Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park. Treat yourself to a stay in the historic Emerald Lake Lodge or luxurious Cathedral Mountain Lodge to recount your feat.
#4 – OLD GLORY IN ROSSLAND
The mountain that dominates all others in the Rossland region used to have a house on top that functioned as a weather station.
#5 – MT. CARLYLE/CARPENTER PASS TRAIL
The land around Carlyle was famous for silver mining back in the late 1800’s and you will still find old mining equipment to this day on this steep, scrambling hike.
#6 – MT. THOMPSON RIM TRAIL IN CRESTON
Views are expansive on both sides, stretching from the southern tip of Kootenay Lake to the north, and well past the US border to the south. It is as close to an aerial view of the Creston Valley as you can find without knowing a pilot.
#7 – THREE SISTERS IN FERNIE
This hike in Fernie has it all; easy walking through cedar forests, alpine meadows and views from the peak that will make you want to keep exploring.
#8 – LOKI PEAK NEAR KASLO
One of the most accessible high peaks in the West Kootenays (near Kaslo). This one will make you feel like you’re on top of the world.
#9 – FISHER PEAK NEAR CRANBROOK
Fisher Peak dominates the skyline above Cranbrook. At 2,886m, this 1,400m vertical hike isn’t for the faint at heart.
#10 – PULPIT ROCK IN NELSON
Across the lake from Nelson is this quick grind of a hike that affords an excellent view of the community and Kootenay Lake. Not enough? Continue up to the Flagpole to get an even higher view.
