Nakusp & Slocan Rail Trail

A mellow rail-to-trail ride in British Columbia’s West Kootenays, tracing the historic Nakusp & Slocan Railway between Nakusp and the New Denver/Rosebery area. Expect mostly gentle grades, packed gravel, and forested corridors with lakeside views popping up along the way.

Pick a section for an easy out-and-back, or go point-to-point with a shuttle. Common access points are in Nakusp, Summit Lake, Hills, New Denver, and Rosebery. If you’re still keen at the south end, you can link into the Galena Trail toward Three Forks/Sandon for more history and scenery.

Highlights: Upper Arrow Lake near Nakusp, Summit Lake Provincial Park, quiet wetlands around Hills, and big Slocan Lake views near Rosebery. You’ll spot old rail grades, bridges, and bits of mining history along the route.

Best from late spring to fall. Surfaces range from smooth gravel to rough patches after storms—wide tires help. Bring layers, water, and a bell, and be bear-aware. Food, coffee, and bike-friendly stops are easy to find in Nakusp and New Denver, with camping at Summit Lake and Rosebery provincial parks. Great for gravel, touring, and laid-back family spins.