Hiking
Two hikers admiring the views (Picture BC photo)
Hiking opportunities abound in Kimberley and offer enthusiasts a real chance to connect with nature – close to their doorsteps.
Kimberley is unique in that it offers a multitude of trails, right within city boundaries. From family outings and easy strolls to moderate and difficult hikes, the area's parks and trails suit all ability levels. A diverse ecosystem provides endless hiking opportunities and wildlife viewing.
Kimberley Nature Park Hiking
Kimberley Nature Park (800ha/1800ac) is one of the largest municipal parks in Canada, with over scores of multi-use trails. The entrance locations to the park include the Kimberley Nordic Ski Area, Swan Avenue, Higgins Street, and Jimmy Russell Road.
A long and successful history of mining has left numerous old exploration roads on the mountains, which have been developed into trails.
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Round-trip distances on trails here vary from two to 10km/one – 6mi. Some of the highlight trails include:
- Creek/Flume Trail
- Eimer's Lake
- Dipper Lake
- Duck Pond
- Sunflower Hill
- Myrtle Mountain
A very basic Trail Guide can be purchased for a nominal fee at local businesses or the Visitor Centre.
Backcountry and Lois Creek
The experienced backcountry traveller should visit the St. Mary's Alpine Park. It's part of the Purcell Wilderness Conservancy Provincial Park offering almost 200,000ha/500,000ac of pristine wilderness and is one of the largest intact ecosystems still remaining in southeastern BC.
The Lois Creek area has a smaller trail system with more than 20 kms/12 miles of trails. Access is at 8th Avenue, Elko Street and Nelson/Trail Street. For shorter hikes, the striking Marysville Falls can be accessed from Highway 93A, only a five-minute walk off the highway, or take the Mark Creek Trail to Marysville Falls (via the Lions/Rotary Trail) from the downtown Platzl. The Nurse's Trail to Cominco Gardens is a short walk just minutes from downtown. Thousand of colourful flowers bloom each year in this tranquil garden setting.
For visitors seeking guided tours or customized hikes, enquire at the Kimberley Visitor Centre or contact Merry Marmot Tours or Spirit Trail Adventures for a variety of hiking and backpacking trips in the area.
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