couple sitting on bench along pathway

Illecillewaet Greenbelt

Overview

The Illecillewaet Greenbelt is a peaceful, scenic area conservation area near downtown Revelstoke. The 22-acre parcel of land follows along the shoreline of the Illecillewaet River and Columbia River. The woodlands, meadows, and pathways make it an ideal spot for walking, birdwatching, gravel biking, and spotting local wildlife, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

As an important habitat for migratory birds and local species, the Greenbelt is a key conservation area, providing visitors and locals with a close-up look at Revelstoke's unique natural environment year-round.

The Flats

Beyond the paved dyke path and the Greenbelt trail network lies the Columbia River Flats. Directly adjacent to the Revelstoke Airport, these trails are great for walking, biking, bird-watching, running, and more. Water levels fluctuate daily, paths may be restricted or inaccessible due to rising water and no signage in the area.

Accessing the greenbelt

The easiest ways to access the Illecillewaet Greenbelt are from the Centennial Park Greenway, Kovach Park or from the Illecillewaet Bridge (all have available parking zones).

Cost

Consider Donating

Seasons

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

couple walking along bridge
Couple walking dog at sunset on greenbelt trails
couple sitting on bench along pathway
snowy forest path groomed

Spring, Summer, Fall

The paved dyke is a multi-use path that connects Revelstoke Southside to downtown near the Revelstoke Community Centre and Centennial Park baseball diamonds, track, and soccer fields. The Greenbelt consists of gravel trails; a great place for a leisurely walk, trail run, mountain bike ride, or gravel ride.

The greenbelt area is designated as an off-leash area within the City of Revelstoke that we can enjoy with our best furry friends. At most access points there are bear-proof garbage cans with provided dog bags and waste disposal receptacles to make cleaning up after your dog easy.

couple walking along path through trees

Illecillewaet Greenbelt | P Laura Szanto

Winter

Throughout the winter, the Illecillewaet Greenbelt trails are accessible thanks to the work of community volunteers and the Illecillewaet Greenbelt Society. The walking trails are groomed regularity throughout winter, giving visitors and locals access to nordic skiing, snowshoeing, trail running, fat biking, and leisurely walks.

A winter grooming map is updated regularly and shows what has been groomed, for what purpose, and when it was groomed.

Consider donating to the Illecillewaet Greenbelt Society to thank them for all their volunteer time. Donations go towards maintaining trails & equipment upgrades.

snowy forest path groomed

Greenbelt Nordic Skiing | P @revyigs

Frequently asked questions

How long are the trails?

Trails and loops range anywhere from 0.3km to 3km. Your walk could be a 30-minute loop or a half-day adventure!

Why does the water fluctuate?

The Illecillewaet Greenbelt and the Mark Kingsbury Bridge provide access to the Columbia River flats, which are part of BC Hydro’s Arrow Lakes Reservoir.

This 230 km long reservoir was created when the Hugh Keenleyside Dam was constructed. As a dam-controlled reservoir, the water levels in the area are prone to regular fluctuations, but forecasts are available from BC Hydro.

Why is there no signage?

Due to water level fluctuations, signage is difficult to maintain. Utilize digital maps such as TrailForks or AllTrails.

How can I give back to the community?

Donating to local trail associations while visiting or volunteering is a direct way you can leave a positive impact. You can also help by supervising your pets and ensure you pick up after them.

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