Revelstoke, BC : Mount Cartier Trail
Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada
hiking trail, backpacking, wilderness camping

Mount Cartier Trail is a multi-day backpacking adventure exploring through thick forests, over rumbling creeks and up hills leading to excellent mountain views and alpine meadows. Some hikers in good physical condition can hike a day trip to the tree line so take advantage of the valley views.

The trailhead is easily located south of the community of Revelstoke, British Columbia, Canada on Airport Way Road. It is a steep trail with many hill climbing sections before reaching the tree line and the views overlooking Upper Arrow Lake and the surrounding mountains like Mt. Begbie and Mount MacPherson.

The Mt. Cartier Trail is 17 kilometres in length and requires a minimum of 2 days to reach the summit and return back. Many enjoy more than a day of adventure on the summit by establishing a wilderness campsite. From base camp day hikes are possible in almost every direction.

Obstacles on the trail to keep an eye out for include exposed tree roots, loose rocks and sharp boulders. And because of the thick tree cover the trail sees minimal sunshine most months and is often muddy and slippery. The first 11 kilometres is hiking, mostly, in the trees. It can get dark and wet quickly, so prepare.

After the first 11 kms you emerge from the tree cover at the alpine tree line. Continue hiking in the open to the summit. The trail does continue further into the mountains, but the path is undefined and receives no maintenance. Be careful and take a GPS.

One of the stops on the hike that does not include summit views is near Mackay Creek. It is here on the lower levels of the hike that the trail opens up and there are some picnic tables and viewing benches. A good spot to relax and have a quick bite before continuing on.

How to Get to Mount Cartier Trail:

From the community of Revelstoke, BC travel south on the east side of Upper Arrow Lake along Airport Way Road for approximately 11.5 kilometres. Look for the trailhead sign on your left.