The best walks and hikes in Valhalla Provincial Park
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Hiking in Valhalla Provincial Park offers access to a rugged wilderness characterized by massive granite mountains, deep river valleys, and towering peaks within the Selkirk Mountains. The landscape features large subalpine lakes, numerous cirque basins, and extensive alpine tundra, carved by glacial activity. Lower elevations consist of interior cedar/hemlock forests, transitioning to Engelmann spruce/subalpine fir zones. This diverse topography provides a range of hiking experiences.
Best hiking trails in Valhalla Provincial Park
- The most popular hiking route is Gwillim Lakes Trail, a 6.6 miles (10.7 km) moderate trail that takes about 4 hours 6 minutes to complete. This path leads through alpine meadows and past Drinnon Lake, offering views of glacier-carved peaks.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Gimli Peak via Mulvey Basin Trail, a moderate 5.3 miles (8.6 km) path. This trail provides access to the popular Gimli Ridge area, known for its views of Mulvey Lake and the distinctive Mount Gimli.
- Local hikers also love the New Denver to Three Forks via Galena Trail, a 10.3 miles (16.5 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 4 hours 32 minutes.
- Hiking in Valhalla Provincial Park is defined by granite mountains, subalpine lakes, and alpine tundra. The network offers options for different ability levels, from short walks to strenuous wilderness treks.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 30 hikers have used komoot to explore Valhalla Provincial Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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hikers
10.7km
04:06
730m
730m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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22
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8.56km
03:57
860m
860m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.07km
00:58
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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16.5km
04:31
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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21.0km
07:55
1,430m
1,430m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Valhalla Provincial Park
Tips from the Community
Idaho Peak sits at 2,280 metres in the Selkirk Mountains and is one of the most iconic viewpoints in the West Kootenay. From the top, you can see all the way down to Slocan Lake and the villages of New Denver and Silverton, with the Slocan, Goat, Kokanee, and Valhalla mountain ranges visible in every direction. The summit is home to a historic BC Forest Service fire lookout tower dating back to the 1940s, and the surrounding subalpine meadows are world-renowned for their summer wildflower displays. It’s a fantastic spot to take a long break, have a picnic and take in the scenery before heading back down the trail.
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Idaho Peak Trail is a short, relatively easy walk that runs just over one kilometre to the summit, following an old ridge top pack trail through a beautiful subalpine wildflower meadow to the historic fire lookout tower. There are interpretive signs along the way that identify the surrounding mountain ranges and the wildflowers that blanket the slopes, which typically peak in late July and early August.
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Wakefield Trail is a challenging and historic route that switchbacks up from the Wakefield Mine site to the Idaho Peak parking lot, following an old pack trail used by miners to access Silver Ridge. You'll climb through a semi-open forest before the route opens up onto steep avalanche tracks, well known for the richly coloured wildflowers that bloom here, and pass the ruins of old mining operations along the way. As a south-facing trail, it’s one of the earliest in the area to become snow-free, so it’s best to visit from late June through September when the wildflowers are at their peak, and the avalanche tracks are clear.
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This trailhead sits right along Four Mile Creek Road, is a small pullout with limited parking, and is the lower starting point if you’re looking to reach the Idaho Peak Trail. The upper trailhead at Idaho Peak Road has been closed since 2020, with no confirmed timeline for repair, so the Wakefield Trail from this trailhead is currently the only practical way to reach Idaho Peak on foot. There are no amenities here, so it’s a good idea to plan accordingly before you hit the trail.
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Bannock Point Trailhead sits on Highway 6 and is a dirt pullout on the west side of the road, with parking as close to the edge of the forest as you can manage. Be careful as you pull in and out, as there are curves in both directions.
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The Galena Trail has a few trailheads. This trailhead in Three Forks, on the east side of Sandon Road, has parking and marks the easternmost point of the Galena Trail.
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The Galena Trail was once the corridor of the 1890s Nakusp and Slocan Railway, and an important part of the "Silvery Slocan" mining boom. The trail today brings hikers and bikers through forests of western red cedars and Cedar-Hemlocks. Halfway through the trail, there is a cable car crossing the Carpenter Creek.
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Galena Trail Cable Car is a unique river crossing. The cable car requires users to pull ropes to cross the creek, and bringing gloves for the cables is highly recommended. Users must cross one at a time and may bring their bike, with the car having a maximum load of 160 kilograms. There are clear directions and loading and unloading platforms at the cable car station.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hiking difficulty can I expect in Valhalla Provincial Park?
Valhalla Provincial Park offers a range of hiking experiences. You'll find easy trails like the Bannock Point Trail, which is suitable for a relaxed outing. For those seeking more challenge, moderate routes such as the Gwillim Lakes Trail and the ascent to Gimli Peak involve significant elevation gain and rugged terrain, characteristic of the park's alpine environment.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Valhalla Provincial Park?
Yes, for families looking for a shorter, less strenuous walk, the Bannock Point Trail is an excellent choice. It's an easy route that allows you to enjoy the park's natural beauty without a demanding climb. The park's western boundary along Slocan Lake also offers numerous secluded pebble and sand beaches, which can be great for a family outing combined with a short walk.
What are some notable natural landmarks or viewpoints to see while hiking?
The park is renowned for its dramatic granite mountains and pristine lakes. Along the Gimli Peak via Mulvey Basin Trail, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Mulvey Lake and the distinctive 'shark-fin-shaped' Mount Gimli. The Gwillim Lakes Trail leads through stunning alpine meadows, past Drinnon Lake, and into a basin dotted with tarns and glacier-carved peaks. Slocan Lake itself offers scenic views and ancient pictographs on rock bluffs.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Valhalla Provincial Park?
Valhalla Provincial Park is a wilderness area managed by BC Parks. Generally, dogs are permitted on trails in provincial parks but must be kept on a leash at all times. It's always best to check the latest regulations on the BC Parks website before your visit, especially concerning sensitive wildlife areas or specific trails.
What is the best time of year to hike in Valhalla Provincial Park?
The prime hiking season in Valhalla Provincial Park typically runs from late June to early October. During this period, snow has usually melted from higher elevations, and weather conditions are generally more stable. However, conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so always be prepared for varying weather, even in summer.
Are there any multi-day hiking or backpacking opportunities?
Yes, Valhalla Provincial Park is excellent for multi-day backpacking. The Gwillim Lakes/Drinnon Pass area is particularly popular for overnight trips, offering backcountry camping facilities at Drinnon Lake and Gwillim Lakes. This allows hikers to explore the extensive alpine meadows and numerous tarns at a more leisurely pace.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter in Valhalla Provincial Park?
The park's diverse ecosystems support a rich array of wildlife. Hikers might spot mountain caribou, mule and whitetail deer, mountain goats (frequently seen around Gimli Ridge), marmots, and pikas. Keep an eye out for alpine ptarmigans and golden eagles overhead. Black bears and grizzly bears also inhabit the park, so it's crucial to practice bear-aware safety.
Is public transport available to access Valhalla Provincial Park?
Valhalla Provincial Park is a rugged wilderness area, and direct public transport to the trailheads is generally not available. Access typically requires a personal vehicle. The park's remote nature contributes to its pristine wilderness experience, but it means visitors need to plan their own transportation.
What are the parking arrangements for trailheads in the park?
Parking is typically available at designated trailheads within the park. Given the wilderness nature of Valhalla Provincial Park, these are usually unpaved parking areas. It's advisable to arrive early during peak season, especially for popular trails like Gimli Ridge or Gwillim Lakes, as spaces can be limited. Always ensure your vehicle is secure and do not leave valuables visible.
Are there any permits or fees required for hiking or camping?
For day hiking in Valhalla Provincial Park, permits are generally not required. However, if you plan on backcountry camping, you will need to register and pay any applicable fees through BC Parks. It's essential to check the official BC Parks website for the most current information regarding permits, fees, and any reservation requirements, especially for popular camping areas.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Valhalla Provincial Park?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in Valhalla Provincial Park. Hikers often praise the park's stunning alpine scenery, the challenge of its mountain trails, and the tranquility of its pristine lakes. The opportunity to spot diverse wildlife and immerse oneself in a true wilderness setting are frequently highlighted as favorite aspects.
Are there any trails that follow the shoreline of Slocan Lake?
Yes, the Slocan-Evans Trail follows the shoreline of Slocan Lake, offering scenic views and leading to Evans Beach. This trail provides a different experience from the high alpine routes, allowing you to enjoy the lake's beauty and explore its numerous secluded pebble and sand beaches.
Most popular routes in Valhalla Provincial Park
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