Trip Dates
Early June to October
Price
$300 for 2 people full day program (add $50/person additional) $150 per half day program (add $25/person additional)
Group Size
Maximum of 8
Skill Level
Intermediate to Advanced
Related Trips
Daily Guided Hikes
Treks & Traverses
Overnight Alpine Hikes
Interpretive Walks & Hikes
Moderate Hikes
Explore Monica Meadows, Jumbo Pass, Gimli Peak, Drinnon Pass, Alps Alturus...
Join one of these stunning moderate guided hikes found in the West Kootenays. Take in the pristine and rugged mountain scenery on unique trails of the West Kootenays, B.C.
Depending on the location and season, you will learn the unique stories linking plant to animal and elevation to critter. Enjoy lasting alpine impressions at a moderate pace, hike for 4-6 hours. Ascend slowly and realize how easy it is to summit, explore ridges and the flora of alpine meadows.
The Magic of Monica Meadows
Some people would consider a visit to Monica the highlight of their journey. The road into Glacier Creek area itself is an adventure, winding along a rapid river and affording views of the Horseshoe and Macbeth Glaciers. The trail ascends through a sub alpine forest, landing you in incredible paintbrush landscape of flowers, particularly mid-summer.
Wander above tree line, soaking in the steep peaks around you or rest on rock outcrop taking panoramic photos to later tape to your fridge.
Alpine Impressions at Jumbo Pass
Located in the heart of the Purcell Mountains, Jumbo pass presents some impressive views of glaciers, moraines and peaks in a panoramic direction. The trail contours through a beautiful mountain hemlock forest and opens up into small natural clearings full of wildflowers as you ascend into the alpine, where mountain goats are tucked away on high vertical ridges above you.
Walk into this scenic wilderness and you’ll understand why hundreds of people are opposed to development proposed here.
Gimli Peak and the Valhalla Guardians
This is a hike you definitely don’t want to miss! Located in the Valhalla Mountains, the stunning rock of Gimli, Asguard, Daag and a number of other impressive summits greet you as you ascend the into the alpine. The trail wanders on the spine of easy shoulder, working its way through avalanches paths.
The habitat is prime for wildlife, including grizzly and black bear as well as an array of forest and high alpine flowers.
Drinnon Pass and Gwilliam Lake
The trail leads you through mature forest into the picturesque sub-alpine terrain of Valhalla Provincial Park. At Drinnon pass you can scramble up the shoulder of Gregorio Peak and listen to the shrill call of pikas or continue walking to the aesthetic broad basin of Gwilliam Lake.
Enjoy walking by rugged rockoutcrops and discover the variety of plants that seek a living in the alpine.
Alps Alturus
Striking views, alpine meadows, dramatic basins with a perfect lake to soak your feet in are all on the menu at Alps Alturus. You’ll share the stunning views with the grizzlies, pikas and marmots that live there.
The ascent is surprisingly easy as a forestry service road brings your vehicle to 1762m.
Itinerary
We will choose an area that best meets your experience and interest. Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.
- Meet your guide between 7-8am am at predetermined location, sign waivers and check gear
- Drive up to hiking trail head, return time based on distance from Nelson or Kaslo.
Prerequisites
Programs are for hikers who have some previous hiking experience or fitness that would allow for 4-6 hours of hiking. Guests are responsible to self evaluate their skills as groups need to be matched together based on prior experience and ability. Please contact us to discuss your background and what kind of tour would suit you best.
Equipment
Weather
Kootenay weather can vary drastically. In summer you expect temperatures to be from 8 C to 28C in the day while overnight temperature can drop dramatically in the high alpine, even below zero. Visibility could be poor or whiteout conditions when raining heavily or snowing or clear on bluebird days. Ensure you are dressed for all variations as temperatures, wind, precipitation can change within the day.
Location
Contact your guide by phone or email the evening before for meeting location.
Services Included
- Pre-trip planning support
- Fully certified ACMG guide service
- Group safety equipment (communication device, rescue kit, first aid supplies, GPS, maps)
Not included in price:
- Lunch, snacks
- Personal equipment
- Transportation costs
- Trip cancellation, adventure travel insurance, medical insurance
FAQ
Where can I purchase personal and safety equipment?
We have some equipment available for rent, contact us. If you’d like to buy gear consider outdoor stores in Nelson that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent/buy gear well in advance.
Rivers Oceans and Mountains 354-2056 www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters 354-1006 www.shop.vpo.ca
