Best Trails in Kootenay National Park

The trail was heavily blocked by avalanche debris, but it had beautiful views. Hardly any tree cover, so the mountains are very visible throughout the trail. Did not make it to the lake because the snow and debris proved to be too difficult. (End of May, 2017)

The trail was heavily blocked by avalanche debris, but it had beautiful views. Hardly any tree cover, so the mountains are very visible throughout the trail. Did not make it to the lake because the snow and debris proved to be too difficult. (End of May, 2017)

There is significant avalanche damage throughout a good portion of this trail - large trees, debris and snow cover at least a kilometre stretch through the middle portion of the trail (about 3km in), manageable if you are ready to climb, but wouldn't recommend for beginners. The trail is also a little hard to follow through these portions as the trees and snow are covering the trail. We made it 8.5km in but could not reach the lake as the last 1.5km of the trail was a steep incline and covered in fallen trees and 3-4ft of snow (in late May). Could possibly summit if you had ice pick and proper winter footwear but we didn't want to risk it. The majority of the trail is fairly easy terrain, aside from avalanche damaged zones. Also note, the bridge at the third river crossing is now non-existent and there is a large log in its place. We were able to cross on the log but we had to do a somewhat difficult shimmy down the riverbank to reach the log as the trail cuts off at a steep embankment. This national park was also affected by a wildfire and this trail takes you right through the burn zone. Re-growth has stated but bring sunscreen as you don't really have any tree cover. Beautiful views throughout, especially later on in the trail and very lightly trafficked (we only saw one other couple up there). I would recommend this hike but it may be better late June onwards so the last portion of the trail is more manageable and you can easily get to the lake!

I took my 13 year old daughter on this trail last August and we had an amazing time! Stunning views.

Cool views and lots of little bridges criss-crossing over the canyon. Tracked out so easy to walk in the winter without snowshoes. Nice place to stop for a little stretch or Great gateway to more trails!

Absolutely amazing! It was a very tough trail and I would definitely recommend to do it in 5 days instead of 4 if you are unsure. Expect some rain. Some of the most beautiful views ever! Don't miss out on this trail!!

It's only when you get to the lower lookout does the adventure begin. Take the trail right up the side of the valley wall to a waterfall and cave. Then continue up to the upper plateau for amazing views of the glacier and valley. Watch out for a fast running stream that can be difficult to traverse between the cave and the plateau. To get down, go to the opposite side of the plateau to try the north face back down. Be cautious of the scree and loose gravel in a steep decline back down to the lookout. The extra hiking to the plateau likely added 2 hrs but well worth it.

Great hike. Did it two years ago and really enjoyed it. It's an experience!

One of the best trails I have done! The end is gorgeous surrounded by peaks that look like they are gonna cave on you! Medium level hike with most of the elevation at the beginning.

short steep hike offering great views of the Columbia River Valley and Sinclair Falls.