Complete Guide to Mount Revelstoke National Park
My first time in Mount Revelstoke National Park I was absolutely shocked by the Meadows in the Sky Parkway; we started driving and it seemed to go on forever, we kept climbing our way further and further into the alpine and it wasn’t until we got to the end of the road that I realized we were driving nearly all the way to the summit.
Mount Revelstoke is the only mountain in the Canadian national park system that you can summit in just a short walk from your car. From the upper parking lot the trails in MRNP take you to amazing vistas, through brilliant wildflower meadows, and to stunning alpine lakes.
Note: Meadows in the Sky Parkway climbs 1600m over 26km to an elevation of 2000m, seasonal road closures are in effect at higher elevations from October to May. Always check the trail and road condition reports or see park staff for the most up to date conditions.
Trails:
Miller, Eva and Jade Lakes:
Starting near the summit of Mount Revelstoke, Miller, Eva and Jade Lakes offer a rare opportunity to explore the alpine without a grueling climb. The trails wind through lush subalpine meadows and boulder fields, rewarding hikers with scenic vistas and four stunning alpine lakes.
Hikers heading to Miller, Eva and Jade lakes all start on the same trail, beginning at the Upper Summit Trailhead.
Eva Lake
Insider Tip: Upon approaching Eva Lake follow the shoreline to find an impressive viewpoint and a 1920s warden cabin.
This summer we hauled out inflatable paddle board into Eva and Miller lakes in late July and they were the perfect temperature for a refreshing dip on a sunny day.
Paddle boarding on Miller Lake
To Eva and Miller Lakes:
Distance: 14.2km roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 465m - trail is rolling and has elevation change in both directions
Type: Out and back
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Mount Revelstoke Upper Summit
Access: Paved Road - 2WD
Jade Lakes:
For a longer, more strenuous day, hike to Jade Pass for a stunning 360 degree view of the surrounding lakes and mountains. Continue from Jade Pass down a steep trail to the green waters of the Upper and Lower Jade lakes.
Views of Miller Lake from Jade Pass
The junction for Jade lakes is just after the junction for Miller. Once on the Jade Lakes trail you traverse the boulder field seen above Miller Lake. It’s a steep climb to the ridge but it’s made enjoyable by the beautiful views of Miller Lake and the surrounding mountains in the distance. You have amazing views throughout the climb and they continue to get better once you reach the pass.
Note: Route finding and navigation is required past Miller lake, cell service is extremely limited on these trails and the trail is easily lost in snowy conditions. Once you reach the ridge you will see Upper Jade lake, continue along for approximately 1.5KMs to find Lower Jade lake off the back of the ridge.
Upper Jade Lake (late July, 2020)
Lower Jade Lake (late July, 2020)
To Jade Lakes:
Distance: 18.8km roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 714m
Type: Out and back
Difficulty: Difficult
Note: Due to significant snow accumulation at this high elevation, these trails are usually only accessible from mid-July through September.
The first time we checked out Jade lakes was late July 2020 and the upper lake was still 75% frozen. Late August would be the best time of year if you plan to head all the way to Jade lakes.
Where to Stay:
Backcountry Camping:
There is a designated backcountry campground at Eva and Jade Lakes. Backcountry camping permits are required for overnight trips. Each area has four tent pads - 2 of which can be reserved a privy and bear-proof food storage lockers.
Eva Lake
Front country Camping:
Snowforest Campground - Located near the start of the Meadows in the Sky Parkway in Mount Revelstoke National Park, Snowforest is a short 5 km drive from downtown Revelstoke. The campground is situated in a cedar-hemlock forest and offers a variety of options, from walk-in tent sites to large pull-through RV campsites with electricity. The campground is an excellent basecamp for exploring Mount Revelstoke’s many scenic vistas and trails. Reservations are required.
Source: Parks Canada Website
Bonus: Chasing Waterfalls in Revelstoke
If you have extra time to spare while exploring Revelstoke, there are a number of scenic waterfalls just outside the park, check out my previous blog for more details.
Gear:
I’ve put together a Day Hiking Checklist with a complete list of gear recommendations.
And as always, here’s a few reminders for recreating responsibly from the Parks Canada team and Leave No Trace Canada:
Rules for exploring our beautiful backyard:
Plan and prepare:
Plan your travel route
Get your Parks Canada pass
Know the terrain and conditions - you can find detailed information about trail conditions, warnings and closures, fire updates and wildlife on the Parks Canada Website
Check the weather
Fill out a trip plan (check out AdventureSmart for more information)
Be considerate of other visitors:
On narrow trails, give way to uphill hikers.
Take breaks on durable surfaces off the trail.
Give freedom for the sounds of nature. Avoid excessive noise.
Pack out what you pack in, and help clean up the trails on your adventures.
And most importantly, have fun!
Parks Website:
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