Hiking in the Rocky Mountains

Hiking is one of those summer sports that is accessible to everyone and gets people into places that can truly inspire.  Dramatic peaks, quaint mountain creeks, wildflowers and big views are some of the essential experience nature has to offer.  Island lake lodge near Fernie B.C. has been building and maintaining a hiking trail network for a good 20 years.  With 7,000 acres of private land and the dramatic Lizard Range as a backyard the hiking is truly great. There is a nice range of ability levels in the area including the lake trail which is rated as easy and can be done in less then an hour.  At the other end of the spectrum is the Mountain Lakes Trail (Heiko's Trail), which is an all day 20 kilometre adventure and ends at Island Lake Lodge.   Here is a quick breakdown:

LAKE TRAIL   (2 km, 1 hr) Rating: Easy   FIR TRAIL Extension (add 3 km & 1 hr) Rating: Easy

RAIL TRAIL   (3 km, elevation gain 50 m)  Rating: Rail Trail:  Easy.

OLD GROWTH TRAIL (4 km, elevation gain 250m)  Rating: Moderate.

SPINEBACK TRAIL  (3.5 km, elevation gain 530 m, 3-4 hours)  Rating: Advanced

MOUNT BALDY LOOP  (10.5 km, elevation gain 620 m, 4-6 hours)  Rating: Advanced

TAMARACK TRAIL  (8 km, elevation gain 640 m, 5 hrs)  VIEWPOINT (4 km,  elevation gain 200 m, 3 hours) Rating: Moderate to Advanced

MOUNTAIN LAKES TRAIL  (HEIKO’S TRAIL) (22 km, elevation gain 4500 m,  8-12 hours)  Rating: Difficult

Island Lake also holds various hiking tenures in the area including in the Steeples and at Fernie alpine Resort.  A great way to explore and learn about the area is with a guide.  You can hire one for half or full days.  Call Island Lake or check the website for details.  1-250-423-0622  www.islandlakelodge.com

Here are a few hiking photos from around Island Lake: