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Balancing Rock Trail

A scenic overlook trail, switchbacking up to expansive views of the Creston Valley. This short hike is part of the Creston Mountain Trail Network and can be extended for a bigger adventure!

Summary
Trailhead: West Creston Road
Distance, round trip: 3.6km
Elevation: +222m
Season: mid-April to early November
Difficulty: Easy
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Ka Papa Cedars Trail

Driving over Kootenay Pass? Take a break and stroll the old growth Ka Papa Cedars Trail! It’s an easy loop that explores an ancient cedar grove. Enjoy the tranquility and magic that comes from wandering the timeless forest floor. The trail name “Ka Papa” means “my grandfather” in the Ktunaxa language and refers to the ancient cedars being like elders in the forest.

Summary
Trailhead: Highway 3
Distance, round trip: 2.6km
Elevation: +69m
Season: late May to early October
Difficulty: Easy
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Cornice Ridge

Cornice Ridge is a simple ridge-line hike on Kootenay Pass. With easy access and good landmarks, this trail is a great choice for a short summer adventure.

Summary
Trailhead: Bridal Lake, Stagleap Provincial Park
Distance, round trip: 6.2km
Elevation: +493m
Season: late June to early October
Difficulty:  Moderate 
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Lost Mountain

Welcome to the West Kootenay’s latest and greatest hike! The Lost Mountain trail offers  highway access and a steady workout. Most of this hike is done in the forest, but the final ridge and summit are worth the effort!

Summary
Trailhead: Highway 3 (Crowsnest), Kootenay Pass
Distance, round trip: 10.6km
Elevation: +1109m
Season: mid-June to early October
Difficulty:  Difficult

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Ripple Ridge/Lightning Strike and Monk Peak

Stagleap Provincial Park is renowned for backcountry skiing, but there is also a summer trail that dips along Lightning Strike. Ridgeline hiking is always a good choice, and this trail doesn’t disappoint with panoramic views of the mountains around Kootenay Pass.

Summary
Trailhead: Bridal Lake, Stagleap Provincial Park
Distance, round trip: 9.4km (Lightning Strike), 12km (including Monk Peak)
Elevation: +393m (Ripple Ridge/Lightning Strike), +759m (including Monk Peak)
Season: early July to early October
Difficulty:   Moderate (Ripple Ridge/Lightning Strike),  Difficult (Monk Peak)

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