Adventure Travel Guide to Revelstoke

Start your Revelstoke adventure with Moose Travel Network – a true adventurer’s paradise, offering year-round thrills nestled between the Selkirk and Monashee mountain ranges. Whether visitors are seeking outdoor excitement or tranquil moments in nature, this mountain town has it all by their picturesque mountains, where the adventure truly begins.

Revelstoke is the first city stop on our Caribou, Roadrunner & Coho tours. We can provide accommodation for the fantastic Sandman Hotel (reach out!).

The famous bear sculpture of Revelstoke.

Revelstoke's famous flattened bear sculpture | Rocky Mountains BC
Revelstoke's famous flattened bear sculpture | Rocky Mountains BC
The last spike railroad in Revelstoke
The last spike railroad in Revelstoke
Vancouver to Rockies Tour Group Breakfast Banff to Vancouver Tour in Revelstoke | Canadian Rockies
Revelstoke village stop on Banff to Vancouver tour | Rockies Adventure Tours

Revelstoke’s History

Revelstoke’s history is rooted in the rich culture of the Secwepemc and Ktunaxa Indigenous peoples, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. These tribes thrived in the area, relying on the Columbia River and its abundant resources for fishing, hunting, and trade. Their deep connection to the land shaped their way of life, and the surrounding mountains and forests were considered sacred spaces.

The arrival of European settlers in the mid-1800s marked a significant shift. Drawn by the fur trade and the prospect of gold, settlers began encroaching on Indigenous territories. The construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) in the 1880s further altered the landscape. Revelstoke emerged as a key railway town, facilitating the movement of goods and people through the rugged Selkirk Mountains. Despite this, the Indigenous communities remained resilient, preserving their cultural heritage.

As mining for silver and lead boomed in the late 19th century, Revelstoke grew into a bustling hub. However, the town’s evolution into an outdoor recreation destination has brought renewed appreciation for its Indigenous history. Today, Revelstoke honors its First Nations roots while thriving as a gateway for adventurers seeking to explore its natural wonders.

Revelstoke’s Nightlife & Daytime Activities

Revelstoke has tremendous bars, cafes, and restaurants (our favourite is Kekuli Café in Merritt that provides an opportunity to enjoy an Indigenous meal in the heart of the Nicola Valley!).

The town itself combines rustic charm with modern conveniences. After an active day, visitors can relax with a local craft beer at one of Revelstoke’s breweries or enjoy mountain-inspired cuisine. Popular spots include The Village Idiot for pizza and The Taco Club for unique regional flavors.

Revelstoke’s nightlife is lively, with live music at The Last Drop Pub and dancing at Traverse Nightclub, ensuring there’s plenty to do after dark.

Revelstoke’s Winter Adventures

In the winter months, Revelstoke transforms into a powder haven, offering some of the world’s best skiing and snowboarding. Revelstoke Mountain Resort is renowned for its deep snow, steep terrain, and North America’s longest vertical drop. For those craving more, heli-skiing and cat-skiing adventures allow access to untouched backcountry powder.

Revelstoke Mountain tops covered in a layer of snow (thanks, Ali Kazal!).

Revelstoke’s Summer Adventures

During the warmer months, the mountains open up a world of biking and hiking opportunities. The Revelstoke Mountain Resort Bike Park provides thrilling downhill rides, while the Frisby Ridge Trail is a favorite for cross-country bikers. For hikers, the challenging Mount Begbie trail rewards adventurers with breathtaking summit views. Revelstoke’s waterways, including the Columbia River and nearby lakes, offer kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding for those looking to enjoy a peaceful day on the water. In summer, a refreshing dip in Lake Revelstoke is the perfect way to cool off after a day of exploration.

Our tour group enjoying Kayaking by Natural Escapes Kayaking!

Checklist for the Best Revelstoke Adventures

Extend your adventure to:

Want your business (in Revelstoke/surrounding) listed? Drop us an email!

Revelstoke offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and vibrant town life, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers of all kinds.

Man with pickaxe outside Craigellachie Village sign in Revelstoke, Rockies
Man with a pickaxe standing outside the Craigellachie Village sign in Revelstoke, Rockies.
Wild caribou grazing in Banff National Park during guided wildlife tour
A majestic caribou spotted during our guided wildlife tours through Banff National Park
Passengers kayaking on a serene lake during the Western Canada Adventure Tour by Revelstoke
Passengers enjoying a peaceful kayaking experience on a lake, part of our Western Canada Adventure Tour.