ALPINE TRAILS, CRYSTAL CLEAR LAKES AND OFF-GRID ADVENTURES
For most people, the mountains are a winter destination. For those who know the Selkirks, summer is just as compelling, and considerably less crowded.
White Grizzly Lodge sits in the heart of it, tucked into Meadow Creek in the Kootenays. The same terrain that buries itself in powder each winter opens up in summer into something quieter and wilder. The cat doesn’t run, but the trails do, and there’s no shortage of ways to earn your dinner.
On the Trail
Some of the Selkirk Mountains’ best hiking starts close to the lodge. Earl Grey Pass leaves from our doorstep: a true multi-day route weaving through glaciers, old-growth forest, and a historic cable car crossing that stops most people in their tracks. For day hikes, Monica Meadows, the Macbeth Icefield, and Jumbo Pass are classics, each one worth the effort, none of them overcrowded.
Venture a little farther and the region keeps delivering. Lyle Lakes and Mount Brennan offer quiet alpine beauty without the foot traffic of more famous routes. The summit of Mount Jardine rewards big efforts with views that are hard to put into words and easy to remember.
On the Water
The Kootenays are quietly one of the best lake regions in British Columbia, and summer makes a strong case for slowing down. Trout Lake, Duncan Lake, and Kootenay Lake all offer cold, clear water for swimming, and easy access for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Gear rentals are available in Kaslo, a small town with more going for it than its size suggests.
For a slower day, take the free ferry across Kootenay Lake to Crawford Bay and follow the shoreline north to Riondel. Stop at the beaches, poke around the artisan shops, and let the pace of this corner of BC do its thing.
On the Trail
Some of the Selkirk Mountains’ best hiking starts close to the lodge. Earl Grey Pass leaves from our doorstep: a true multi-day route weaving through glaciers, old-growth forest, and a historic cable car crossing that stops most people in their tracks. For day hikes, Monica Meadows, the Macbeth Icefield, and Jumbo Pass are classics, each one worth the effort, none of them overcrowded.
Venture a little farther and the region keeps delivering. Lyle Lakes and Mount Brennan offer quiet alpine beauty without the foot traffic of more famous routes. The summit of Mount Jardine rewards big efforts with views that are hard to put into words and easy to remember.
On the Water
The Kootenays are quietly one of the best lake regions in British Columbia, and summer makes a strong case for slowing down. Trout Lake, Duncan Lake, and Kootenay Lake all offer cold, clear water for swimming, and easy access for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Gear rentals are available in Kaslo, a small town with more going for it than its size suggests.
For a slower day, take the free ferry across Kootenay Lake to Crawford Bay and follow the shoreline north to Riondel. Stop at the beaches, poke around the artisan shops, and let the pace of this corner of BC do its thing.
On the Bike
Kaslo has quietly become a serious mountain biking destination. The Friendly Giant is a long, scenic green trail (about 18km!) climbing steadily to the Mount Buchanan lookout. For experienced riders, High Commander delivers a descent that draws people from Squamish and Revelstoke for good reason. With over 260km of trails in the network, there’s something for every level. Finish at Serge’s for a well-earned poutine.
On the Rock
The Woodbury Crag rewards those willing to work for it. The access road is steep and the approach is about 30 minutes, but you’ll find solid rock, quiet surroundings, and views across the Purcell Mountains that make the effort feel reasonable. It gets hot — bring sunscreen — and don’t hesitate to ask locals about newer routes.
Back at the Lodge
After a long day in the alpine, the lodge earns its keep in a different way. Good food, dry gear, and the kind of easy company that comes from a small group sharing a big landscape. There’s no resort noise here, just the Selkirks outside the window and time to actually unwind before doing it again tomorrow.
Plan Your Summer in the Selkirks
White Grizzly Lodge is open in summer for small groups, retreats, and multi-activity stays. If you’ve been looking for a reason to see what the Kootenays look like without snow, this is it.
FAQ
WHAT IS THERE TO DO IN THE SELKIRK MOUNTAINS IN SUMMER?
The Selkirks offer hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, lake swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding across a range of ability levels. Multi-day routes like Earl Grey Pass and day hikes to Monica Meadows and Jumbo Pass are among the most popular. The region is significantly less busy than coastal BC in summer.
ARE THERE REMOTE LODGES IN BC OPEN IN SUMMER?
White Grizzly Lodge in Meadow Creek operates in summer as a base for small groups, retreats, and multi-activity stays in the Selkirk Mountains and broader Kootenay region.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE SELKIRK MOUNTAINS IN SUMMER?
July and August offer the most reliable conditions for hiking and alpine access. June and September are quieter, with cooler temperatures and fewer visitors — good options for those who prefer the shoulder season.
