Discover hidden hikes near Nelson, Kalso and New Denver…
For hikers seeking unique backcountry hikes, the West Kootenay region provides a diverse array of established wilderness trails for beginner walkers to very experienced hikers. Enjoy a day hike with a light pack with a certified hiking guide in a local alpine meadow, along an aesthetic ridges or through the lush forests in the Selkirk, Monashee and Purcell Mountains. Here, you will discover the stories behind the unique alpine flora and fauna.
Whether staying in a comfortable hotel, cabin or camping, you can easily access our day programs. We can also build a multi-day day-hiking program to suit your interests, experience, and sense of adventure! We offer a number of hikes, each different from one another, see our favorite hiking trails for inspiration. Here are some of our favorite areas:
- Valhalla Provincial Park
- Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park
- Goat Range Provincial Park
- West Arm Park
- Stagleap Park
- MacBeth Icefield
- Whitewater Canyon
- Jumbo Pass
- Idaho Peak
- Mt. Gimli
- and many more!
Contact us with your questions, ideas, group size and possible dates. We look forward to organizing a hiking trip with you!
The exact itinerary will depend on where you are staying and which trail we are planing. View favorite West Kootenay trails page for trails ideas. We will choose an area that best meet your experience and interest. Here is a typical day hiking itinerary:
- Meet your guide between 7-8am am at a predetermined location, sign waivers, and check gear
- Drive up to the hiking trailhead and hike for a full day (8-9 hours)
- Return time-based on distance from Nelson, New Denver or Kaslo
Programs are beginner to advanced. 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.
Most of our day hiking programs are based in the West Kootenays in Southeastern British Columbia. Depending on where you wish to hike the ideal towns to base from are Nelson, New Denver and Kaslo. There are dozens of excellent hikes available with-in and hours drive from each of these towns.
Contact us with your ideas and we will create a program that suits your needs together.
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.
How experienced do I need to be?
On this guided hiking program, prior hiking experience is an asset. Good physical fitness is important as it will give us the ability to move safely and efficiently in the mountains.
The difficulty of the hikes we attempt will be based on your personal goals, interests and previous experience. Previous hiking experience for long periods with a day pack is beneficial.
Is it safe?
On all our programs, SMG provides you with fully certified ACMG guides. This guarantees you the highest safety standards in the industry. Wilderness hiking remains hazardous and while it is impossible to eliminate all the hazards, our guides will maximize your experience and greatly minimize the risks involved.
Can I rent some of the equipment needed during the programs?
On this program, guests should have their own hiking boots and day packs. We do have some equipment available for rental. Please review the equipment list and let us know if you have any questions.
Where can I rent/buy outdoor equipment?
Here are a few outdoor stores in the West Kootenays that supply good service and quality outdoor equipment and gear rental, please ensure you rent gear well in advance.
Rivers Oceans and Mountains www.roamshop.com
Valhalla Pure Outfitters www.shop.vpo.ca
