The Columbia Valley has no shortage of short hikes that provide breathtaking views. From Brisco to Canal Flats, find short hikes that every skill level will enjoy.
Lower Bugaboo Falls
The Lower Bugaboos is a wonderful hike for anyone looking for an Instaworthy photo spot. Capture the stunning view of the waterfall cascading into the river.
Distance: 3 k.m. each way
Access: Travel north on Highway 95 to Brisco. Turn left on to Brisco West Road, following and keeping straight/right when the road splits at the 5 k.m. mark. See the parking area and a small sign at the 8.3 k.m. mark.
Note: High clearance, 4×4 vehicle recommended.
Sinclair Creek Trail
Follow this short loop trail along the Sinclair Creek in Radium Hot Springs. This trial is also an off-leash area for dogs and includes a pump-and-jump track for bikes.
Distance: 3.5 k.m. to complete the loop
Access: From Radium Hot Springs, travel to the roundabout and turn down Foresters Landing Road. Take a sharp right at the four-way-stop before the mill, following the gravel road to the parking area.
Juniper Trail
Located within Kootenay National Park, the Juniper trail offers views atop the Sinclair Canyon and of the Sinclair Falls.
Distance: 3 k.m. each way
Access: Travel north on Highway 93, into the Kootenay National Park. Just inside the park entrance, you will see a parking area and trailhead on the left.
Note: A valid Parks pass is required to hike this trail.
Old Coach Trail
This out-and-back trail winds along the Columbia River, offering sprawling views of the wetlands.
Distance: 9 k.m. each way
Access: From Radium, drive south on Highway 93/95. About 5 k.m. past Radium, turn right into the large gravel parking area.
SRL Trails
Enjoy views of the Columbia River Wetlands on this trail system.
Distance: Variable
Access: From the town of Invermere, turn right on to 13th Street, then left onto 13th Ave., which later turns into Westside Road. Follow Westside Road until you see the parking lot for the SRL Trails on the left. These trails are on private land and have been offered for public walking and biking use, so please be respectful!
Hoodoos Restoration Trail
The Hoodoos Restoration Trail will lead to a stunning view of Columbia Lake, Dutch Creek and local farmland.
Distance: 3 k.m. loop
Access: Travel south on Highway 93/95 for 30 minutes from Radium Hot Springs. Past the main town centre, turn right on Westside Road. The parking area is 1 k.m. on this road on the left.
Source of the Columbia Trail
Follow this short trail along the headwaters of the Columbia River in Canal Flats.
Distance: 3 k.m. loop
Access: Travel south on Highway 93/95 for about 40 minutes to the town of Canal Flats. Then, take a left turn onto Grainger Rd., travelling for about 1 k.m., then take another left down Beatty Ave. to find the trailhead.
Updates for Kootenay National Park trails can be found on the official Park’s Canada website. Trails outside of the national park are not regularly monitored, so use at your own risk.
Remember that you are hiking in bear country! Be bear aware, always remember to make noise, and be on the lookout for any signs of bear activity (scat, digging).
Always bring the gear you need for your hike! For a short hike, it’s best to be equipped with a small backpack containing snacks, water, sunscreen and a first aid kit.
For more information and trail maps, please contact the Radium or Invermere Visitor Information Centre!
RELATED LINKS
- Local Restaurants
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- Breweries
- Hot Springs
At the end of the day, warm up with a soak in one of our hot springs, enjoy a great meal and don’t forget to tag us when sharing your images on your social media channels.
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