Wildflowers

Gilpin Grasslands

The landscape changes dramatically between Christina Lake and Grand Forks. You round a corner on Highway 3 and suddenly forest gives way to grassy slopes, full of dramatic pines and boulders. If you’ve ever gazed longingly at the hills and wondered if there is a hiking trail, well yes! Yes there is!

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is a scenic alpine lake, glowing in the ridges below Mount Jardine. It’s a family-friendly hike that highlights the mining history in the area, and strong hikers who are comfortable off-trail can explore the ridges above and beyond.

Seven Summits Trail

The Seven Summits is a legendary ridge-line trail that sweeps across the Rossland Range. Strong hikers and trail runners will enjoy the challenge of a big day with stunning alpine views. The terrain features rolling wildflower meadows, gnarled trees, and of course the seven mountain summits.

Sphinx Mountain

Which mountain has two humps and riddles hikers with its steep ascent? Sphinx is a notable peak, towering high above Grey Creek Pass. It’s easily spotted from the Kootenay Lake Ferry but not so easily summited.

Twin Peaks

A short meadowy ridge in the Bonnington Range. Twin Peaks is a scenic off-trail adventure for hikers who are prepared to navigate and route-find.

Motherlode Lakes (Carlyle Lodge)

Staying at Carlyle Lodge? Check out the trail to Motherlode Lakes. It’s a scenic hike from the lodge, edging along alpine slopes to arrive at a series of lakes and pools.

Boulder Pass (Carlyle Lodge)

A scenic trek around the Mount Carlyle bowl! The route to Boulder Pass is a great option if you’re staying at Carlyle Lode or want to extend your day hike into Carpenter Pass. The route leads to the southern ridge of Mount Carlyle with views over the edge towards the Purcell Mountains.

Carpenter Pass Trail

The Carpenter Pass Trail offers a scenic loop to a high mountain pass, full of history and surrounded by epic views. It’s a worthwhile day hike, but even better if you can spend a few nights at Mount Carlyle Lodge to explore the alpine wonderland beyond the pass.

Texas-Reco Ridge

An amazing ridge-line adventure, full of mining history and mountain tops! The Texas-Reco ridge is strung between peaks with wide views all around. Come in late July for the wildflowers!

Saddle Mountain Lookout

A gorgeous hike that ascends through forest and wildflower meadows to reach a historic fire tower. The Saddle Mountain Lookout is perched panoramically high above Nakusp and Arrow Lakes!