Rossland’s Must-Do Hikes

Rossland is home to an endless network of trails—winding through dense forest, climbing to sweeping ridgelines, and connecting you to some of the best views in the Kootenays. You could spend a week here and still only scratch the surface. But if you’re looking for a place to start, these are our go-to hikes: the local favourites, the must-do routes, and the ones we keep coming back to.

Red Mountain

9km out and back | +428m | 3-4hrs | Access via Old Red Mountain Road

Conquer RED, literally, with a hike up Red mountain. Starting from the base of the resort, this hike winds through the forest and pops out on top of Red with stunning 360° views of the surrounding mountains and the city of Rossland. About 4km in, keep an eye out for Poochy’s Inn, one of the 9 historic cabins scattered across the resort. Safe to say the views from the top are worth every step. 

Mount Roberts

7.2km out and back | +895m elevation | 3-4hrs | Access via Old Rossland Cascade Highway

A RED favourite in every season, backcountry skiing in the winter and a challenging hike in the summer. The trailhead is just a few minutes down the road from the resort, starting with switchbacks through the valley before getting serious. Steep enough in sections that it’s rated a black diamond trail for the mountain bikers that dare to descend it. A Canadian flag marks the summit where a bench is waiting for you to rest your legs and enjoy the views.

Record Ridge

10.2km out and back | +350m | 3-4hrs | Access via Old Rossland Cascade Highway

Not ready to commit to the full 7 Summits? Record Ridge is the answer. This hike takes you up the Southern end of the iconic trail, and will show you why people travel from all over the world to hike and bike it. Enjoy views of Old Glory, Record Mountain, Granite and Mount Roberts as you meander along the ridge. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and extra water as there is not much shade on this route.

Explore the full 7 Summits trail: https://westkootenayhiking.ca/seven-summits-trail/

Kootenay Columbia Trail

4km out and back | +124m | 1hr | Access via Centennial Trail Parking Lot on Kirkup Avenue

An after work favourite for Rossland locals and a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air without committing to a sufferfest. The KC trail starts near town at the Centennial Trail parking lot and takes you through the woods at a gentle incline. The trail finishes at a scenic outlook that has 2 benches waiting for you to sit and enjoy the view. Low commitment, high return.

100 Acre Wood

3km round trip | +75m | 1hr | Access via Highway 3B

If you like big trees and you cannot lie, this is the place for you. Wander through the old growth cedar and hemlock forest that smells exactly how you imagine it. Interpretive signs along the way break down the local ecology and give you a deeper understanding on the significance of old growth forests. Loop around to find a carved wooden bench and take a minute to take in the views of the Columbia Valley and breathe in the crisp, fresh air.

Rossland Range Cabins

Varying lengths and difficulties | Access via Highway 3B

One of the most unique things about RED is the collection of cabins hidden across the mountain, and cabin culture in Rossland does not stop there. The Rossland Range Recreation Site is a collection of volunteer built day-use cabins scattered across a fantastic trail network. Pick a trail, find a cabin, and enjoy lunch and some card games with the crew as the sun sets over the mountains, that’s the Rossland way. There are 12 cabins and several trails of varying lengths and difficulties to explore. We recommend checking out their website to find one that suits you.