Picnics With a View: Best Spots Around Revelstoke

A packed lunch, fresh air, and a place to sit with a view make any meal better. In Revelstoke, the landscape isn’t just a backdrop—it’s part of the experience. Lakes, rivers, and mountains shape every outing, offering a mix of easy-to-reach spots and rewarding hikes. Whether you're looking for a quick break by the water or a full-day escape, there are plenty of places to spread out a blanket and enjoy the outdoors.

Martha Creek Provincial Park

A short drive north on Highway 23 leads to Martha Creek Provincial Park, a peaceful spot along the shore of Lake Revelstoke. The day-use area has picnic tables near the water, some shaded by trees and others in open spaces. A coarse sand and pebble beach stretches along the edge, where the cold, clear water invites swimmers and paddlers.

For those who like to fish, rainbow trout are common in the deeper sections, with some caught right from shore. The park also has open spaces for lawn games, making it a great place to spend an afternoon.

Williamson Lake

Closer to town, Williamson Lake offers a more compact but still scenic setting. The small lake is surrounded by trees, with a sandy beach, a dock, and a floating swimming raft. The water is warmer than the larger lakes in the area, making it a comfortable spot for a dip.

In addition to picnic tables, the area has mini-golf and canoe rentals, adding more ways to enjoy the space. Short trails wind through the surrounding forest, providing a change of scenery for a post-meal walk. With plenty of space for families and quiet corners for those looking to relax, Williamson Lake is an easy choice for a low-key picnic.

Wadey Recreation Site

For a quieter, more remote picnic, Wadey Recreation Site offers a long view over Lake Revelstoke and a rocky shoreline that sets it apart. Located past Martha Creek along Highway 23 North, it feels more secluded while still being easy to access.

A few picnic tables sit near the water, where the lake’s deep, clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains. The water level shifts depending on dam releases, but the setting remains the same—calm, expansive, and surrounded by forest. Boaters and kayakers often launch from here, taking advantage of the open water and steep shoreline. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great spot to slow down and take in the surroundings.

Eva and Miller Lakes in Mount Revelstoke National Park

For those willing to put in some effort, the trail to Eva and Miller Lakes leads to a setting that feels untouched. A short drive into Mount Revelstoke National Park takes you to the trailhead, where a few hours of hiking bring you to these alpine lakes.

The route climbs steadily through dense forest before opening up to reveal clear water framed by mountain peaks. The lakes sit in a high basin, where the air is crisp, and the reflections are sharp. Large rocks around the shoreline make for natural picnic spots, and some hikers bring small stoves to make hot drinks. While it takes time to get there, the quiet, open landscape makes it worth the effort.

Begbie Falls

South of Revelstoke, Begbie Falls offers a picnic spot with the added bonus of a short hike. A rough road leads to the trailhead, where a walk through the forest brings you to the falls. Water spills over a rock ledge into a pool below, creating a natural focal point for a break.

Some visitors stop near the falls, while others continue down to the shoreline of Upper Arrow Lake. The open space near the water has logs to sit on and plenty of room to spread out. The constant sound of rushing water makes the area feel more remote than it is, adding to the sense of being away from it all.

How to Plan for a Picnic in Revelstoke

Weather can shift quickly, especially in the mountains or near large lakes. A warm day in town doesn’t always mean warm conditions at higher elevations, so bringing an extra layer is a good idea.

Mosquitoes can be thick in summer, especially near water, so bug spray is essential. Bears are also active in the area, so food should be stored properly, and all garbage packed out. Being prepared helps keep the experience comfortable and safe.

The Best Way to Picnic in Revelstoke

The right picnic spot depends on what you're looking for. Some places are easy to reach, while others require a bit of a hike. Offering a quiet meal by a waterfall, a break on an alpine trail, or a spot along a lake with space to swim and play, the setting makes all the difference. Revelstoke offers enough variety to make every outing unique.