Hiking

There is so much to do in Nelson and area that the endless opportunities await, just minutes from your door step. Nelson has both the terrain and the scenery that makes for fantastic hiking. Clear streams, large inland lakes, forest covered valleys, wildflowers, some literally minutes away from downtown, make this area a hiker’s paradise. Wildlife here thrives, so don’t be surprised if you encounter deer, elk, moose, black bears and perhaps a grizzly, depending on your location. There are at least 10 trails close to the city for hiking, biking and snowshoeing. Drop into the Nelson & Area Visitor Centre for our free hiking guide, check out the West Kootenay Hiking webpage, or purchase the Where Locals Hike book at the visitor centre or Otter Books.

Many Nelsonites use Pulpit Rock, just across the Big Orange Bridge on Johnstone Road, for their daily workout hike. The hike is considered moderate in difficulty, and can be handled by both young and old.

The Nelson Salmo Great Northern Trail is an abandoned rail line that is accessed by walkers, hikers and bikers. It is accessible above the City of Nelson, with access points off of South Cherry-Gore Street, or Elwyn Street.