Outdoor Activities in Revelstoke | Experience Natural Beauty
Revelstoke offers some of the most challenging, rewarding, and unique outdoor activities in Canada. This place isn’t just about skiing; it’s a year-round destination packed with high-adrenaline adventures and slower-paced experiences that bring people into the mountains, forests, and rivers. Whether dropping into steep chutes, navigating whitewater, or biking down a never-ending descent, there’s something here for every level of outdoor enthusiast.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Revelstoke Mountain Resort
Revelstoke Mountain Resort has the highest vertical drop in North America. The terrain is a mix of long groomers, tight trees, and open alpine bowls. The resort gets deep snow, creating ideal conditions for powder skiing. There are lift-serviced areas, but those looking for more challenge can access backcountry terrain beyond the resort boundaries.
For those new to the area, guided tours help with navigation. The resort’s terrain is suited for advanced skiers and snowboarders, but there are also options for those at an intermediate level. Beginners have fewer choices, but lessons and smaller slopes are available.
Heli-Skiing and Cat-Skiing
Revelstoke is one of the best places in the world for heli-skiing and cat-skiing. Operators provide access to untouched powder in the backcountry. Runs are long and often take skiers through high-alpine bowls and tree-filled glades. These trips require a guide and proper avalanche training.
Cat-skiing offers a more affordable way to experience backcountry terrain. Snowcats transport skiers up the mountain, providing a similar experience to heli-skiing without the added cost of a helicopter.
Snowmobiling
Revelstoke has one of the largest snowmobiling trail networks in British Columbia. Areas like Boulder Mountain and Frisby Ridge provide groomed trails and technical riding zones. Riders can explore deep snow and challenging climbs. Guided tours are available for newcomers who need assistance with routes and avalanche safety.
Summer Activities
Mountain Biking
Revelstoke’s trail systems offer everything from fast, flowy descents to steep, technical terrain. The Mount Macpherson network has well-maintained singletrack trails with varying difficulty levels. Revelstoke Mountain Resort operates a lift-accessed bike park with a trail spanning its full vertical drop, giving riders one of the longest downhill experiences in North America.
For those looking for backcountry riding, Keystone Standard Basin and Frisby Ridge offer long, scenic rides above the treeline. These trails require endurance and proper planning.
Hiking
Mount Revelstoke National Park has several hiking trails, including the Meadows in the Sky Parkway. This 26-kilometre road allows people to drive up most of the mountain and access shorter alpine hikes from the top. The Eva and Miller Lake trails take hikers through subalpine terrain with clear lakes and mountain views.
Glacier National Park has more challenging hikes, including routes leading to glaciers and high mountain ridges. The Illecillewaet Glacier trail follows an old mountaineering route and offers a look at how the glacier has changed over time.
Water Activities
The Illecillewaet and Columbia Rivers have options for whitewater rafting and canoeing. Rafting trips range from beginner-friendly to high-adrenaline rapids. Guided trips ensure safe navigation.
Lake Revelstoke offers a more relaxed experience for kayaking and canoeing. Paddlers can explore quiet sections of the lake and see local wildlife. The calm waters make it accessible for all experience levels.
Fishing is extremely popular around Revelstoke, with opportunities to catch species like rainbow trout, bull trout, and kokanee salmon. Anglers can fish from the shore or by boat on Lake Revelstoke, and guided fishing tours are available for those looking to explore the best spots.
The Pipe Mountain Coaster
Revelstoke Mountain Resort operates a mountain coaster that runs 1.4 kilometres down the slopes. The track includes sharp turns, drops, and a tunnel. Riders control their own speed, making it accessible to a range of comfort levels.
Family-Friendly Activities
Aerial Adventure Park
This ropes course at Revelstoke Mountain Resort includes multiple levels of obstacles, from ziplines to balance beams. The course accommodates different skill levels, making it an option for both children and adults.
SkyTrek Adventure Park
Located outside of Revelstoke, SkyTrek offers climbing obstacles, high-ropes courses, and zip lines. It provides a structured way to experience climbing challenges in a forested setting.
Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail
This short boardwalk trail runs through an old-growth cedar forest. The walk is accessible and offers an opportunity to see some of the oldest trees in the region.
Cultural and Community Events
LUNA Art Festival
LUNA Art Festival takes place annually in downtown Revelstoke. The event includes interactive art installations, live performances, and digital projections. Local and international artists create temporary exhibits that transform streets, alleyways, and buildings into a public gallery. The festival encourages participation through hands-on activities, allowing visitors to contribute to collaborative art pieces. Each year, the lineup includes light installations, large-scale murals, and performance art, creating a dynamic experience.
Farmers' Markets
Revelstoke’s markets showcase fresh produce, handmade goods, and local crafts. The Revelstoke Farm and Craft Market brings together farmers, bakers, and artisans selling organic vegetables, artisanal cheeses, and homemade preserves. Visitors can find unique handcrafted items such as wooden carvings, textiles, and jewelry. Live music and food vendors add to the atmosphere, making the market a gathering place for both residents and tourists.
Conclusion
Revelstoke offers a mix of adventure and slower-paced activities. The winter season attracts skiers, snowboarders, and snowmobilers, while the summer months bring hikers, bikers, and paddlers. Whether taking on a physically demanding challenge or choosing a more relaxed activity, this region provides an experience that connects people with the outdoors.