Kootenay Rockies Snowshoeing

Backcountry at Red Mountain Resort, Tourism BC/Dave Heath photo

Ski resorts in the Kootenay Rockies are an ideal base for snowshoeing, offering guided tours, rentals and close proximity to backcountry trails.

Choose from several resorts for a winter snowshoeing adventure, including Fernie Alpine Resort, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Kimberley Alpine Resort, Red Mountain Resort or Panorama Mountain Village.

Snowshoeing at Fernie Alpine Resort

Snowshoe through deep drifts at Fernie Alpine Resort – situated at 1,000m/3,280ft high in the Canadian Rockies of southeastern BC, Fernie is renowned for its powdery snow and sunny skies.

Trek over 10km/6.2mi of groomed snowshoeing trails, with plenty of backcountry for adventurous snowshoers. Take a guided Mountain Heritage tour to learn about the history of the mountain and surrounding area, or join a Snowshoe Safari for fondue, stargazing or old growth forest exploration. The resort is just minutes away from Fernie, a mining town known for its colourful past and turn-of-the-century architecture.

Snowshoeing at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

At Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, experience the exhilaration of fresh air and pristine snow high in the Rocky Mountains. Snowshoe trails here are convenient loops, either 2km/1.2mi or 4km/2.5mi in length. Afterwards, warm up with a mug of steaming cocoa or have fun at the tube park. Kicking Horse is located 15 minutes north of Golden.

Snowshoeing at Kimberley Alpine Resort

While Kimberley Alpine Resort does not have set trails, they offer two tours for snowshoers of all levels. On the Mountain Descent tour, travel up the mountain via the chairlift to enjoy an interpretive trek along trails and through trees to the base. During the Kootenay Fondue Experience tour, take a brisk mountaintop tour, then indulge in decadent chocolate fondue.

Kimberley Alpine Resort is a 2km/1.6mi drive from the city of Kimberley and a 20-minute drive away from Cranbrook.

Snowshoeing at Panorama Mountain Village Resort

At Panorama Mountain Village, strap on snowshoes and head out on a scenic 4km/2.5mi trail or join a guided interpretive snowshoe tour. After an invigorating day of snowshoeing, soak weary bones in the village's hot pools. Panorama is located in the Toby Creek Valley, 20 minutes west of Invermere.

Snowshoeing at Red Mountain Resort

A 1km/0.6mi snowshoe loop at the base of Red Mountain is an ideal route for beginners. Feeling ambitious? Head into the backcountry around Red Mountain and Rossland to discover snowy woods, climb impressive peaks or just meditate while snowshoeing through unbroken snow. Red Mountain Resort is a five minute drive from the town of Rossland.

Practical Points

Snowshoeing season can start as early as November and can last until April.
Snowshoers exploring unmarked routes in provincial and national parks should have backcountry skills and experience.
Some cross-country ski areas do not permit snowshoes on trails (snowshoe tracks can ruin the grooming for skiers). Check the trail info before heading out.
Some snowshoe trails have user fees. Check with local Visitor Centres for trail maps and information.
Tours and equipment rentals are available at many of the larger snowshoe areas; many outdoor stores also have rentals.