Tackling Rossland, B.C.’s epic Seven Summits Trail your way
Cover photo by Ashley Voykin courtesy of Tourism Rossland
If you’ve never been to Rossland, B.C., Canada, a quaint mountain town roughly 121 miles north of Spokane, make sure to put it on your to-do bucket list this summer. Mostly thought of as a winter destination, you will be pleasantly surprised with the number of activities this town has to offer in the summer months—usually the locals’ favorite season for a reason. With over 124 miles of accessible trails right from town, all you’ll need is your bike, your boots or running shoes and an adventurous spirit (okay, and maybe some snacks).
Designated as an IMBA Epic by the International Mountain Bicycling Association, the Seven Summits Trail is the crown jewel of Rossland’s trail network—and definitely not for the faint of heart. Stretching 19 miles one way, with over 3,395 feet of elevation gain, this remote alpine trail typically takes six to 10 hours to complete depending on your pace and equipment of choice.
The suggested route is to start at the North Trailhead off Highway 3B with parking at the Strawberry Pass, maintained by the Friends of the Rossland Range. You will either need to drop a car at the Dewdney Trail (at the end of the trail) or book a shuttle with Kootenay Mountain Biking, a local biking and guiding company, before heading out.
The trail is very remote, with no water sources, limited cell service, and minimal shade. It kicks off with a punchy climb that eventually opens up to one of Rossland’s most iconic viewpoints: Old Glory. About 5 miles in, you’ll hit the trail’s highest point at 7,218 feet. Pause, deeply breathe in that fresh mountain air, and soak in the 360° views of the Rossland Range. Here, you might even forget that you are not even halfway! From there, the trail flows through exposed ridge lines, loose rock sections and open alpine meadows. The ever-changing landscape will keep you engaged and may even distract you from how far you still have to go.
Local pro tips: start early. Whether hiking or biking, beating the midday sun and giving yourself extra daylight is key. August is the best time to see wildflowers.
Now that you sort of know what you’re in for, let’s discuss how you would like to experience the Seven Summits Trail. Most adventure seekers choose to mountain bike it, due to its length and varying terrain. But if you are an experienced hiker or trail runner who enjoys a serious challenge and a long day of ups and downs, tackling the trail on foot may be the choice for you. This will be a true test of stamina, as you hike or run through the forest, meadows, valleys, ridgelines and everything in between. It will feel more like a backcountry expedition than a casual walk or run in the wilderness, and you should pack and prepare accordingly. If you’re not quite ready to commit to the full length, you can divert off the Seven Summits Trail and use the Plewman or Old Glory Trail down to exit for a shorter route.
If you’re up for a bonus side trip, consider hiking up the Old Glory Trail to the summit. Standing at 7,799 feet, it’s the highest peak in the Rossland Range and rewards your efforts with incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. At the summit, you’ll also find the remnants of a historic fire lookout and weather station, a fascinating monument to explore the area’s past.
If you choose to experience the panoramic vistas of the summits by mountain bike, you should prepare for a technical, lung-burning, leg crushing ride that somehow still feels like a celebration. Expect long climbs, exposed ridgelines and challenging technical descents—but also flowy, thrilling downhills that will earn you local bragging rights and leave you grinning like your Strava says “legend.” Riders often describe the trail as a perfect mix of punishment and joy. There is nothing quite like it. And just a heads-up: E-Bikes are not allowed. This one has to be earned the old-fashioned way.
Whether you choose to hike, run or bike Seven Summits, the best months to take on the trail are from July-October. Don’t be a hero and push it beyond your means. This is an expert level trail that requires both physical fitness and mental preparation. Pack smart, check the weather and conditions and make sure you are equipped for all situations—from a flat tire to a bear encounter. The good news? No matter how physically challenging this trail may be, the good folks at The Kootenay Columbia Trail Society—a nonprofit powered by passionate volunteers and riders—maintain the trail to the highest standard.
The Seven Summits Trail is a classic Kootenay experience that will push your limits—and reward you tenfold. Where else can you climb through thick forest, cross wildflower meadows and rip along rocky ridge lines, all in one epic day? And this is just one of many incredible Rossland-area trails within 2.5 hours of Spokane. So grab your friends, your gear, and your dog—and spend the weekend filling your adventure tank. Rossland is waiting, and the Seven Summits won’t hike or bike itself. Plan your adventure at Tourismrossland.com.
What to Bring on the Trail
Seven Summits is a true backcountry trail that requires self-sufficiency, so come prepared with these recommended essentials: 2 liters of water, high-calorie snacks, layered clothing (it can get chilly at elevation, and the weather can change at any moment), a first-aid kit, bear spray (declare it when crossing the border), and a trail map or GPS. Bikers should pack repair tools, a spare tube or tire sealant and a pump. Hikers and runners should wear sturdy, comfortable boots or running shoes and consider bringing trekking poles. Remember to tell someone your plan and estimated time, as there is patchy cell service on the trail.
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