The best MTB trails around Area E (Saint Mary/Skookumchuck)

Komoot features a selection of mountain bike trails in Area E (Saint Mary/Skookumchuck), with over 4 routes currently available. The broader East Kootenays region, which includes this area, boasts over 650 trails, offering extensive options for riders.

Yes, beginners can enjoy the Yakee Lake – Canuck Lake loop from Premier Lake Provincial Park. This easy 6.8 km trail takes you through areas with emerald green lakes and is typically completed in about 40 minutes.

For those seeking a challenge, the Forest Trail – Wooden Bridge Over Stream loop from Kimberley Riverside Campground is a difficult 11.4 km route with significant elevation changes. Another option is the moderate View of the Wycliffe Plain – View of the Santa María River loop from Cranbrook, which covers 57.9 km and offers expansive views.

Wasa Lake Provincial Park, located within Area E, is particularly family-friendly. It features an 8 km paved path called the "Wasa Lions Way" around Wasa Lake, suitable for all ages. The park also has a children's bike park within its campground, perfect for younger riders.

The East Kootenays region, including Area E, benefits from sunny days and mild winters. This often means trails are clear of snow early in the spring, extending the riding season well into the fall.

Absolutely. Many trails offer stunning views of the Canadian Rockies and Purcell Mountains. The View of the Wycliffe Plain – View of the Santa María River loop from Cranbrook provides vistas of the Wycliffe Plain and the St. Mary River. Additionally, the Yakee Lake – Canuck Lake loop from Premier Lake Provincial Park takes you past beautiful emerald green lakes.

The Rocky Mountain Trench area around Skookumchuck is rich in wildlife. You might spot bears, badgers, deer, and various birds of prey. Around Premier Lake, ospreys, herons, eagles, fowl, and kingfishers are commonly seen.

Yes, several routes are loops. Examples include the difficult Forest Trail – Wooden Bridge Over Stream loop from Kimberley Riverside Campground, the moderate View of the Wycliffe Plain – View of the Santa María River loop from Cranbrook, and the easy Yakee Lake – Canuck Lake loop from Premier Lake Provincial Park.

Beyond mountain biking, the area offers numerous outdoor activities. Wasa Lake Provincial Park is known for swimming, and both Wasa Lake and Premier Lake Provincial Park offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, waterskiing, paddling, and nature viewing. The nearby town of Fort Steele provides a glimpse into gold rush history.

For more details about Wasa Lake Provincial Park, including its amenities and attractions, you can visit the Cranbrook Tourism website: cranbrooktourism.com/places/lakes-rivers/wasa-lake/.

The routes in Area E (Saint Mary/Skookumchuck) are highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, ranging from majestic mountain ranges and river valleys to serene emerald green lakes, and the variety of terrain suitable for different ability levels.