Revelstoke's Industrial Past

The late 1800s saw a surge in mining activity around Revelstoke as prospectors flocked to the area in search of gold, silver, lead, and zinc. Mining operations popped up in nearby areas like the Big Bend and Lardeau regions, bringing wealth and workers to the area. Challenging conditions led to a decline in activity.

The Canadian Pacific Railway reached Revelstoke in 1885, transforming it into a vital railway hub. This connection to the rest of Canada brought economic growth, a steady influx of settlers, and positioned Revelstoke as a transportation and supply center for nearby mining and forestry industries. The railway’s presence sparked the development of the town's infrastructure and laid the foundation for its economy.

A second rush brought renewed interest to the area, with additional infrastructure developed to support mining. Though the boom was short-lived, it left a mark on the region’s history and contributed to Revelstoke’s early reputation as a gateway to mining regions.

By the early 1900s, Revelstoke’s rich forests attracted the timber industry, which grew to become a central part of the economy. Logging camps and sawmills sprang up around the region, providing jobs and driving local development. The forestry industry has since evolved but remains a significant economic contributor.

In 1915, Revelstoke opened one of the first ski jumps in North America, sparking the town’s reputation as a winter sports destination. Throughout the early 20th century, Revelstoke held ski jumping tournaments that drew world-class athletes and spectators from far and wide. This helped establish Revelstoke as a hub for skiing and winter sports.

Construction on the Revelstoke Dam began in the early 1960s, marking a shift toward hydroelectric development. The dam, completed in 1984, transformed the local economy by creating jobs and boosting infrastructure investment. Today, hydropower is a crucial part of the region’s energy landscape and a key player in British Columbia’s electricity supply.

The original ski hill in Revelstoke, known as Powder Springs, opened in 1962 on Mount Mackenzie. It was a small operation compared to today’s standards, with a single lift serving a handful of runs. Despite its modest size, Powder Springs attracted local skiers and laid the groundwork for Revelstoke’s development as a ski destination.

After years of planning and approvals, the vision to transform Powder Springs into a major resort came to life in 2005, when Revelstoke Mountain Resort (RMR) was officially announced. Local and international investors joined forces to build a resort capable of competing with North America’s best ski destinations. Combined with the region’s existing reputation for snowmobiling, skiing, and breathtaking scenery, the resort brought in visitors from around the world. Today, tourism has evolved into a year-round economic mainstay, with hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, and other adventure sports drawing in a global audience.