Upper Summit Trail
A short but steep summit approach through subalpine forest to mountain viewpoints.
Route overview
Steep forest connection from Balsam Lake to the upper summit trail network.
Upper Summit Trail provides the natural-trail alternative between Balsam Lake and the upper summit. The climb rises through subalpine forest toward meadow routes and broad views of the Monashee and Selkirk mountains when skies are clear.
Trail facts
- Country
- Canada
- Region
- Balsam Lake to upper summit
- Distance
- 2 km return
- Typical duration
- 40 minutes
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- 91 m elevation change
- Best season
- Usually early July through late September when open and adequately snow-free
- Trail type
- Return
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- National park admission normally applies; summit access depends on seasonal parkway operations.
Safety context
The route is steep and July 2026 conditions included wet mud and snow patches. Carry layers, use traction-conscious footwear and turn back if snow or visibility makes routefinding uncertain. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Steep trail, snow patches, mud, rapid weather, fragile vegetation and limited mobile service.
Highlights
Canada, Mount Revelstoke, Upper Summit, steep trail, subalpine forest, mountain views, Parks Canada
Why find a buddy
Valuable for pace matching on the climb, monitoring slippery snow sections and coordinating the return option.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.