For Nelson locals, going for a hike starts at the end of the street. The city is completely surrounded by mountains that are cut with a network of disused mining and logging roads. An abandoned rail line (that's 48 km/31mi long) provides easy access to it all.
Trails in Nelson
The last trains ran on the Burlington Northern Railway in the 1990s. Today, the Nelson Salmo Great Northern Trail climbs at rail grade from Canadian Pacific Railway tracks at Troup Junction, following the upper boundary of the City of Nelson before turning south towards the village of Salmo. This multipurpose trail, which is shared with runners and mountain bikers, comes complete with some impressive trestles.
Hiking Pulpit Rock
Elephant Mountain reposes on the other side of the West Arm, and Pulpit Rock is a natural outcropping on its trunk. A short, but relentless, hike leads up through the forest to this popular destination. The reward is a panoramic view of the city and the West Arm, with secondary views along the Kootenay River valley towards Castlegar. This well-maintained trail has many switchbacks, but it can still be a grunt on a hot day. Pack lots of water – and then more of it.
Kokanee Glacier Park
About an hour's drive from Nelson, Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park is a popular, yet surprisingly uncrowded hiking destination. From the trailhead at Gibson Lake, follow a well-marked trail up to Kokanee Lake, and beyond to the Kokanee Glacier Cabin. Operated by the Alpine Club of Canada, this luxurious mountain chalet is a great destination. An advance reservation is recommended if planning to stay overnight. A car with reasonable ground clearance is recommended to navigate the 16km/10mi fairly steep unpaved single track road up to Gibson Lake. Most family cars (but not RVs) will be able to manage it. Vehicles left at Gibson Lake overnight should be protected by chicken wire. The resident porcupines have an appetite for car tires and brake lines.