Revelstoke, British Columbia, has many great options for families looking for adventure, relaxation, and learning experiences. With experiences like exploring national parks, riding mountain coasters, and walking through an old-growth forest filled with storybook characters, there is something for everyone. The region offers outdoor activities in every season, along with museums, cultural experiences, and kid-friendly restaurants. With a mix of active and laid-back activities, families can plan a trip that suits all interests and energy levels.
Outdoor Activities for Families
Mount Revelstoke National Park
Mount Revelstoke National Park has options for short walks and day-long hikes. The Meadows in the Sky Parkway is a 26-kilometre drive that leads to high-altitude hiking trails with viewpoints overlooking mountain peaks and valleys. The Giant Cedars Boardwalk is a 500-metre loop through a rainforest filled with ancient cedar trees. The Skunk Cabbage Boardwalk is a 1.2-kilometre trail through a wetland habitat with interpretive signs and birdwatching opportunities. Families can take their time on these walks, stopping at benches and picnic areas along the way.
Revelstoke Mountain Resort
The Pipe Mountain Coaster at Revelstoke Mountain Resort is a gravity-powered ride where each person controls their speed while following a winding track down the mountain. Riders can slow down for a scenic experience or pick up speed for a more thrilling descent. Mountain biking trails are available for different skill levels, with rental and lesson options to help beginners feel comfortable on the trails. Tandem paragliding flights with certified pilots offer an aerial view of the Columbia River and surrounding mountains, providing a different perspective of the region’s landscape.
Water-Based Activities
Apex Rafting offers family-friendly whitewater rafting trips on the Illecillewaet River, with guides ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride for all participants. The Revelstoke Aquatic Centre has a 25-metre pool, a lazy river, waterslides, and a climbing wall over the water. This facility is a great option for families who want a relaxing day in town or a backup activity for rainy days. Lake Revelstoke and the Columbia River provide additional options for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with rental services available.
Educational and Fun Activities
Revelstoke Railway Museum
The Revelstoke Railway Museum highlights the history of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Exhibits include vintage locomotives, interactive displays, and model train setups. The museum provides a hands-on experience for children who enjoy exploring the controls of a locomotive or learning about the mechanics behind the railway system. The museum’s exhibits detail the role of the railway in Canada’s development and the engineering required to build tracks through mountainous terrain.
The Enchanted Forest
The Enchanted Forest has more than 350 hand-carved storybook characters along a walking trail. Kids can explore fairy tale scenes while parents enjoy the quiet setting of the old-growth forest. A treehouse built high in the forest canopy and a nature walk through towering trees add to the experience. The attraction encourages imaginative play, with miniature castles, houses, and bridges for children to climb and explore.
SkyTrek Adventure Park
SkyTrek Adventure Park offers aerial obstacle courses, zip lines, and climbing walls. Activities are designed for different age groups, with courses that increase in difficulty. Younger children can participate in a kid-friendly area, while older kids and adults can challenge themselves on high ropes courses. The park focuses on physical activity, balance, and coordination, making it a fun and engaging experience for active families.
Seasonal Activities
Winter Activities
Revelstoke Mountain Resort has skiing and snowboarding programs designed for children, with instructors who specialize in working with young learners. Families can rent equipment and take lessons together, ensuring that everyone is comfortable on the slopes. Snowshoeing trails provide an alternative for those who want a slower-paced winter experience, while tubing hills offer a fun, low-effort activity that appeals to all ages.
Summer Activities
Hiking trails in Mount Revelstoke National Park offer access to wildflower meadows in late summer, with trails ranging from short loops to full-day hikes. Fishing and boating are available on Lake Revelstoke and other nearby waterways, with equipment rentals and guided tours providing options for beginners. Families can also take scenic chairlift rides at Revelstoke Mountain Resort to enjoy panoramic views without the effort of hiking up.
Family-Friendly Services
Lodging Options
The Sutton Place Hotel offers suites at the base of Revelstoke Mountain Resort, providing easy access to mountain activities. Local bed and breakfasts offer smaller-scale accommodations with breakfast included. Campgrounds and vacation rentals are also available for families looking for more flexibility or outdoor-focused lodging options.
Dining Options
Restaurants with kid-friendly menus are available throughout town, with casual dining spots serving pizza, burgers, and pasta. Cafés and bakeries offer lighter meals and snacks, with takeout options for those who want to eat outdoors. Picnic areas with tables and facilities are available in parks and along hiking trails, allowing families to pack lunches and enjoy meals outside.
Planning a Family Visit
Revelstoke has a multitude of exciting outdoor adventures, educational attractions, and services designed for families. Seasonal activities offer different experiences throughout the year, making it possible to visit multiple times and enjoy something new each trip. A well-planned visit includes selecting the right mix of outdoor activities, indoor experiences, and local dining options. Families can expect a variety of ways to spend time together, whether on the trails, in the water, or exploring history and culture. With so many activities in one location, Revelstoke is an easy choice for a family trip that balances adventure with relaxation.
