Hiking trails and routes in and around Nakusp range from easy to moderate. Take a casual loop of Nakusp, putter along Cedar Grove Trail amongst gigantic Red Western Cedars, or challenge the long climb to Saddle Mountain lookout.
Nakusp Loop
Begin a 5km/3mi loop of Nakusp at the Marina and walk along the Waterfront Walk to the Japanese Garden. This loop includes in a section of Kuskanax Creek and part of the former railway line that came into town from Sandon. A GPS is probably not required!
Cedar Grove Trail
Cedar Grove Trail is a 10 to 15 minute hike on fairly level terrain. Along the trail, are enormous Red Western Cedars – some as high as 30m/100ft, with base diameters of 2m/6.5ft. These cedars are protected in this small enclave of interior rain forest. To access the trail take Hot Springs Road just north of Nakusp. Drive for 10.8km/6.7mi turning left onto Kuskanax Forest Service Road. Follow the road for 4.2km/2.6mi, and turn left at the "Cedar Grove 0.8km" sign. Stay right to the parking area.
Saddle Mountain Lookout
Saddle Mountain Lookout is a moderate hike involving an 864m/2835ft climb over 5.3km/3.3mi of terrain. (Pack lots of water.) The end prize is an incredible view of Arrow Lake, Nakusp, and the surrounding mountain ranges. The trail passes through mature cedars and hemlocks, and progresses through subalpine spruce and balsam before breaking out into alpine meadows. Access the trail via the Arrow Park Ferry, 21km/13mi southwest of Nakusp off Highway 6. Turn right and follow Saddle Mountain Road for 9km/5.6mi. Take the left turn onto Lookout Road, and drive to the "Branch 75" fork. Park to the side. The road is passable in high-clearance two-wheel-drive vehicles.
Drop by the Visitor Centre for more information on hiking trails and routes in Nakusp.