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 Visitor Centre for our free hiking guide (or download a pdf from this site), or purchase the Where Locals Hike book at the Visitor Centre, or Otters 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 Burlington Northern Rail 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.

8 hiking trails leave from the Info Centre in Kokanee Creek Provincial Park. The park’s sandy beach and delta area slopes gently upward to the base of the forested Slocan Range of the Selkirk Mountains. If you are visiting in late summer, be sure to see the remarkable spawning of the Kokanee salmon.

Try taking on Kokanee Glacier Park. This rugged mountain area is open for hiking between July and October. Kokanee Glacier itself is the main attraction and sits an elevation of 2775 meters. Wilderness camping is permitted in designated areas. There are no developed campgrounds in the park. Various shelters are located throughout the park for overnight use.

For details on how to maximize your stay or as a local to learn about all Nelson and area has to offer, drop by the Nelson and Area Visitor Centre, 91 Baker Street, of call 250 352 3433