Hiking in the Columbia Valley: 8 Trails Near Radium Hot Springs

Set between the Rocky and Purcell mountains, the Columbia Valley is filled with trails leading through forests, wetlands, canyons and alpine landscapes. Whether you want a short interpretive walk or a challenging mountain adventure, hiking in the Columbia Valley offers something for nearly every experience level.

Many of the region’s trails are accessible from Radium Hot Springs and the surrounding communities. Some are located inside Kootenay National Park, while others follow historic routes or climb into the Purcell Mountains.

To help you plan your time outdoors, we have selected eight Columbia Valley hiking trails ranging from easy walks to demanding full-day routes.

Trail distances, access and conditions can change. Always review current information from the appropriate trail authority before leaving.

Easy Columbia Valley Hiking Trails

1. Paint Pots

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2 km return
Estimated time: Approximately 40 minutes
Location: Kootenay National Park

The Paint Pots trail is a short, family-friendly walk leading to three iron-rich mineral springs that colour the surrounding earth in shades of orange and red.

The trail begins at the Paint Pots parking area and crosses the Vermilion River before continuing through the forest. Interpretive information along the route introduces visitors to the area’s natural and cultural significance.

Although relatively short, sections can become muddy. Wear suitable footwear and remain on the designated trail to protect the landscape.

Review the current Paint Pots trail information from Parks Canada before visiting.

2. Old Coach Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: Approximately 9 km one way
Location: Between Radium Hot Springs and Dry Gulch

The Old Coach Trail follows a historic route along the benchlands above the Columbia River. Its open terrain provides expansive views across the Columbia Valley Wetlands, with the Rocky and Purcell mountains visible in the distance.

The complete trail runs between Radium Hot Springs and Dry Gulch, but visitors do not need to walk the entire route. An out-and-back hike can easily be adjusted according to the group’s available time and energy.

The trail is shared by hikers and cyclists. It can also become hot and exposed during summer, so bring water and consider visiting earlier in the day.

Learn more about the Old Coach Trail and other routes maintained throughout the region.

Moderate Hikes Near Radium Hot Springs

3. Cobb Lake

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.4 km return
Estimated time: Approximately two hours
Location: Kootenay National Park

Cobb Lake offers a peaceful forest hike a short drive from Radium Hot Springs. The route descends toward Swede Creek before continuing along the creek to a quiet lake surrounded by forest.

Because much of the elevation is lost on the way to the lake, hikers should save enough energy for the climb back to the trailhead.

The Cobb Lake trailhead is located along Highway 93 South, approximately 17 kilometres east of Radium Hot Springs. Parks Canada currently classifies the route as moderate rather than easy.

4. Sinclair Canyon

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.6 km return
Estimated time: Approximately two hours
Location: Kootenay National Park

Sinclair Canyon provides a closer look at the dramatic landscape surrounding Radium Hot Springs. The trail follows the canyon rim before descending into its depths, with an optional detour to Parks Canada’s red chairs overlooking the hot springs area.

The route includes approximately 350 metres of elevation gain on the outbound journey, making it more demanding than its distance might suggest.

Several trails and pathways in the Sinclair Canyon area connect with one another, so review your intended route before starting. Do not rely on older descriptions that combine Sinclair Canyon with the longer Sinclair Creek or Kindersley Pass routes.

5. Stanley Glacier

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 9.8 km return
Estimated time: Approximately three hours
Location: Kootenay National Park

Stanley Glacier is one of Kootenay National Park’s most popular day hikes. The trail climbs through a regenerating forest before reaching an alpine basin surrounded by towering rock walls.

From the upper portion of the route, hikers can see Stanley Glacier and watch meltwater descend from the cliffs. The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as the trail gains elevation.

The maintained trail is approximately 4.9 kilometres each way. Going beyond the official trail into loose rock and more complex terrain requires additional experience and preparation.

Arrive early during the busiest summer periods, as trailhead parking can fill quickly.

6. Mount Swansea

Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, depending on the route
Distance: Varies by route
Location: Near Invermere

Mount Swansea offers several hiking options and broad views over Lake Windermere, the Columbia Valley and the surrounding mountains.

Routes vary considerably in length and difficulty. A shorter approach leads toward the communication towers, while longer routes include steeper terrain and greater elevation gain.

The trail system is also popular with mountain bikers, so hikers should remain aware of other users. Review a current map from the Columbia Valley Greenways Trail Alliance and choose a route that matches your group’s experience.

Challenging Columbia Valley Hikes

7. Kindersley–Sinclair Loop

Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: Approximately 17 km
Estimated time: A full day
Location: Kootenay National Park

The Kindersley–Sinclair route is a demanding hike through forests, avalanche paths, alpine meadows and a high mountain pass.

The route can be completed by connecting the Kindersley Pass and Sinclair Creek trails. It involves significant elevation gain, long sections of exposed terrain and rapidly changing mountain conditions.

Parks Canada may require hikers to travel in groups of at least four because of grizzly bear activity. Restrictions and closures can change, so checking the current trail report before attempting this hike is essential.

This route is best suited to experienced hikers who are prepared for a long day in mountain terrain.

8. Jumbo Pass

Difficulty: Moderately difficult to difficult
Best season: Generally mid-July through mid-October, conditions permitting
Location: Purcell Mountains

Jumbo Pass leads through forest and subalpine terrain to expansive views of the Purcell Mountains. It is particularly well known for its alpine scenery and golden larches during the fall.

Unlike trails accessed directly from a paved highway, reaching Jumbo Pass can involve travel on remote resource roads. Road conditions may be rough and can change throughout the season.

Hikers should confirm the current access route, trail conditions and vehicle requirements through Recreation Sites and Trails BC before departing.

The nearby Jumbo Pass Hut requires separate planning and should not be treated as a casual extension of the day hike.

When Is the Best Time to Hike in the Columbia Valley?

Lower-elevation trails around Radium Hot Springs may be accessible in spring and fall, depending on current weather and trail conditions.

For higher-elevation hiking, Parks Canada identifies July through mid-September as the primary season. Alpine passes may remain covered by snow until summer, and new snow can arrive early in the fall.

Conditions vary significantly by elevation:

• Spring: Look for lower-elevation trails, but expect mud, runoff and possible lingering snow.
• Summer: Offers the widest range of accessible routes, although exposed trails can become hot.
• Early fall: Brings cooler temperatures and changing colours, including alpine larches.
• Late fall and winter: Many hiking routes become exposed to snow and avalanche hazards.

Always choose the trail based on current conditions rather than the season alone.

Columbia Valley Hiking Safety

Mountain conditions can change quickly, even during summer. Before beginning any hike:

• Check current trail conditions, closures and weather forecasts.
• Choose a trail suitable for the least experienced person in your group.
• Carry sufficient water, food and extra clothing.
• Bring a first-aid kit and an emergency communication device.
• Carry bear spray where it is accessible and know how to use it.
• Keep dogs leashed wherever they are permitted.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Remain on designated trails and pack out everything you bring.

Cell service is unreliable or unavailable in much of Kootenay National Park. Review the latest Parks Canada trail conditions and safety information before leaving.

Make the Columbia Valley Your Hiking Base

With trails spread throughout Kootenay National Park, Radium Hot Springs, Invermere and the Purcell Mountains, staying for several nights gives you time to experience more than one part of the valley.

A vacation rental can provide space to prepare meals, store outdoor equipment and relax together after a day on the trail.

Explore Columbia Valley vacation rentals managed by True Key Vacations and find a comfortable home base for your next hiking getaway.

Own a Vacation Property in the Columbia Valley?

Outdoor experiences are an important part of how travellers discover and choose accommodations in the Columbia Valley. Helpful destination content, seasonal marketing and local knowledge can position a vacation property in front of guests already interested in visiting the region.

True Key Vacations provides professional vacation rental management and marketing for eligible properties in the Columbia Valley.

Learn more about our vacation rental management services or contact our team to tell us about your property.