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Haystack Mountain

Haystack Mountain is a remote peak in the Purcell Mountain Range. The access road is long, but the trail offers hikers the chance to bag a peak or just enjoy the lakes and ridges surrounding the area. Come in the fall for golden larches!

Summary
Trailhead: Sanca Creek FSR
Distance, round trip: 11km
Elevation: +1008m
Season: mid-July to late September
Difficulty:Difficult

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West Kokanee Loop

Welcome to one of the newest trail networks in the West Kootenay! This alpine circuit offers ridgelines and summits, just outside of Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park.

Summary
Trailhead: West Kokanee FSR
Distance, round trip: 12.3km
Elevation: +1025m
Season: mid-July to late September
Difficulty:Difficult

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Half Dome

For those that like a little more scramble, the Half Dome is a prominent landmark on Ymir Peak’s ridge with big panoramic views. The trail is still in development, so prepare for some route-finding as you pick your way along the ridge, using hands to scramble over the bluffs.

Summary
Trailhead: Whitewater Ski Hill Road
Distance, round trip: 8.8km
Elevation: +680m
Season: mid-July to late September
Difficulty:Difficult

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McDonald Creek Nature Loop

So you’re camping at McDonald Creek and need something to do? This nature walk is a simple trail through the forest, stopping at McDonald Creek and the remains of an old homestead.

Summary
Trailhead: Highway 6
Distance, round trip: 3.2 km
Elevation: +25 m
Season: mid April to late November
Difficulty: Easy
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John Fenger Memorial Loop

Come wander a beautiful old growth forest, full of ancient cedars and hemlocks. A quick old growth grove, in a remote part of the West Kootenay. If you find yourself camping at the north end of Kootenay Lake, this is a great option for rainy days or new hikers.

Summary
Trailhead: Highway 31
Distance, round trip: 1 km
Elevation: +25 m
Season: mid April to late November
Difficulty: Easy
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Cedar Creek Loop

A forested trail near Ainsworth Hot Springs full of mining history. It’s a steep ascent, but views along the way and the visit to the historic Ainsworth Cemetery make it a worthwhile exploration.

Summary
Trailhead: Highway 31
Distance, round trip: 4.1 km
Elevation: +200 m
Season: mid April to late November
Difficulty: Easy
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Selkirk College Trails

A big trail network wraps around the Castlegar Campus at Selkirk College, offering riverside hiking and pleasant views.

Summary
Trailhead: Rosedale Road
Distance, round trip: 7.1 km
Elevation: +120 m
Season: mid March to late November
Difficulty: Easy
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Cai Creek Route

The Cai Creek watershed leads through a beautiful stand of forest to the largest known Ponderosa Pine in British Columbia (Lieutenant Dan).

Summary
Trailhead:  Highway 3
Distance, round trip: 6.6 km
Elevation: +388 m
Season: early April to late November
Difficulty: Moderate
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Fraser Hill Viewpoint Trail

A pleasant walk up the forest to a series of viewpoints above Crawford Bay. The final reward is a big view of Kokanee Glacier through the trees!

Summary
Trailhead:  Peters Road
Distance, round trip: 4.2 km
Elevation: +228 m
Season: mid April to late November
Difficulty: Easy
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Rialto Waterfalls

This trail was built for mountain-bikers, but everyone will enjoy the smooth grade and scenic waterfalls. Hike up the woods to enjoy a series of waterfalls along Rialto Creek.

Summary
Trailhead:  Broadwater Road
Distance, round trip: 4.6 km
Elevation: +181 m
Season: mid March to late November
Difficulty: Easy
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