There are still wildflowers to be found beyond the festival. Check out our list of self-led activities for the best experience possible!
Coming July 25-28, 2024
The Revelstoke Wildflower Festival is British Columbia's ideal place to experience the alpine wildflower bloom. Our festival activities highlight the joy of being in nature, and also provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the environment through arts, education and community involvement.
Self-Led Wildflower Activities
2023 FESTIVAL EVENTS
Daily
Enjoy alpine wildflowers thanks to free shuttles from downtown Revelstoke to the summit area of Mt. Revelstoke National Park for Parks Canada passholders every day of the festival. New for 2023: There will be an additional return shuttle at the end of the day to accommodate hikers and full-day activities as well as a new stop at the Snowforest Campground and Heather Lake summit area. Passengers must have a valid pass to load the shuttle, and passes are available for sale from the kiosk in front of Parks Canada’s downtown office. Participants in the Parks Canada Invasive Species Walks and Alpine Adaptations Walks will have priority to board the shuttles. Remaining seats are available on first-come, first-served basis, and the shuttles can accommodate up to 24 passengers.
→ Summit Schedule
8:45 am Depart downtown
9:10 am Depart Snowforest
9:50 am Arrive Balsam Lake
10:00 am Arrive Heather Lake
12:45 pm Depart downtown
1:10 pm Depart Snowforest
1:50 pm Arrive Balsam Lake
2:00 pm Arrive Heather Lake
←Return Schedule
11:45 am Depart Heather Lake
11:55 am Depart Balsam Lake
12:35 pm Arrive Snowforest
12:45 pm Arrive downtown
3:45 pm Depart Heather Lake
3:55 pm Depart Balsam Lake
4:35 pm Arrive Snowforest
4:45 pm Arrive downtown
5:55 pm Depart Heather Lake
6:05 pm Depart Balsam Lake
6:45 pm Arrive Snowforest
6:55 pm Arrive downtown
Stop Descriptions:
Downtown: 301 3rd Street West, across the street from the Parks Canada office and pass kiosk. Look for a Wildflower Festival sign.
Snowforest Campground: In front of the office
Balsam Lake: Bus shelter near the RV designated parking
Heather Lake: At the sign
Parks Canada Information:
There is no cell phone service at the summit area. Dress accordingly for weather and activities you are planning to do. Dress with proper footwear, walking shoes highly recommended, bug spray, sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing for possible cooler alpine weather (various layers are recommended for various weather possibilities) and anything else you may need. Dry toilets are available throughout the park. Pack all your water and food needs. No food, water, or beverage services available. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the summit area of Mount Revelstoke National Park or on the shuttle bus.
Mt. Revelstoke Map
Add your own flair to a wildflower-themed colouring sheet from local artist Meghan Porath for a chance to win a prize. Pick up colouring sheets starting in August from the Visitor Centre, and drop them off by Friday the 11th at the close of the visitor centre in order to be considered. Submissions will be judged by Brett Mallon, the head of Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre's exhibition committee who is also a professional artist and graphic designer. Winners will be announced at the Visual Arts Centre Garden Party on Sunday, August 13 (see separate event details).
Categories:
Adults 18+, Teens 13-17, Kids 12 and under
View local wildflowers painted on the windows of local businesses downtown. Ready for viewing as of July 5, 2023.
Williamson Lake Campground
Emo's Restaurant
Silverwinds
Terra Firma's Kitchen
Fable Book Parlour
Birch & Lace
Revelstoke Visitor Centre
Thursday, August 10th
Visit the Invasive Species Council of BC's educational trailer on-site at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Suitable for families. Inquire at Guest Service for exact location.
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Join us out in nature for an inspiring photography course dedicated to capturing the vibrant world of wildflowers. Immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes and learn from local photographer Katee Pederson. Learn how to make the most of the natural landscape to create breathtaking portraits, or get in close and discover essential techniques for macro photography and composition. If you’ve got a camera that you’re still getting acquainted with, this class would be perfect for you! Katee will be there to tell you exactly what all those little settings do.
🔸 $30 per person
🔸 Youth and Adults Aged 14+
🔸 Offsite location to be announced
🔸 Participants will need to bring their camera (digital, film, or phone) and any accessories they would like to use like lenses, filters, tripods, etc.
🔸 Participants should be ready for some walking, however a high level of fitness is not required.
Register
10:00 am - 11:30 am
Join the Parks Canada Resource Conservation vegetation specialists for an introduction to invasive species biology, identification, and adaptations to alpine environment. You will learn how to properly remove certain invasive species, how they spread, and what we do to curb the impact of those plants on the wildflower meadows. The 1.5 hour workshop will focus on the removal of vetch and other invasive species around Balsam and Heather Lake area. Be prepared to do some light hiking. Meet at the RV Parking visitor information tent and shuttle stop.
Registration
Email [email protected]. Notify staff if you need the shuttle for the event when you register. Drop-ins welcome if space allows (note: these events typically fill up). Must have a valid parks pass, available for purchase from the downtown kiosk or at the entrance to the park.
Parks Canada Info:
Dress accordingly for the weather and activities you are planning to do. Dress with proper footwear, walking shoes highly recommended, bug spray, sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing for possible cooler alpine weather (various layers are recommended for various weather possibilities) and anything else you may need. Dry toilets are available throughout the park. Pack all your water and food needs. No food, water, or beverage services are available. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the summit area of Mount Revelstoke National Park or on the shuttle bus. In the event that the summit parking lots are full, passenger vehicles may be turned away from the parkway at the base and participants will not be able to access the meeting point. Arrive early to improve your chances of accessing the summit. A shuttle is also available from downtown Revelstoke (see the Shuttle event for more details).
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Join a park naturalist on a 1 hr. wildflower walk around the summit area of Mount Revelstoke and learn how alpine plants have adapted to live in a cold place covered in meters of snow for half the year. Expect roughly 2.5 kilometres of walking on uneven dirt trails with some steep sections (rated “easy” by Mount Revelstoke criteria). Meet at the Balsam Lake bus shelter (see shuttle map for details - please note that the bus does not stop at the bus shelter).
To Register:
Email [email protected]. Notify staff if you need the shuttle for the event when you register. Drop-ins welcome if space allows (note: these events typically fill up). Free with a valid Parks Pass, available for purchase from the downtown kiosk or at the entrance to the park.
Parks Canada Info:
Dress accordingly for weather and activities you are planning to do. Dress with proper footwear, walking shoes highly recommended, bug spray, sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing for possible cooler alpine weather (various layers are recommended for various weather possibilities) and anything else you may need. Dry toilets are available throughout the park. Pack all your water and food needs. No food, water, or beverage services are available. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the summit area of Mount Revelstoke National Park or on the shuttle bus. In the event that the summit parking lots are full, passenger vehicles may be turned away from the parkway at the base and participants will not be able to access the meeting point. Arrive early to improve your chances of accessing the summit. A shuttle is also available from downtown Revelstoke (see the Shuttle event for more details).
3:00 pm - 4:15 pm
During this 1-2 hour hike, we will traverse the picturesque Bottoms Up Trail at Revelstoke Mountain Resort, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the Columbia-Shuswap region. Led by knowledgeable guides from the Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society, we will learn about the invasive plant species that have taken root in this area and their impact on the local ecosystem. The highlight of the walk will be the opportunity to identify edible invasive plants and explore their potential culinary uses. Participants should meet at the Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society tent at the base of the gondola prepared with water, weather-appropriate clothing, a sun hat, sturdy footwear, notepad, backpack, and a curious spirit.
To Register:
Submit this form after July 10th. No Cost. https://forms.gle/MpFgZjJWp3La24B57
Please contact the Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society at 1-855-785-9333 or [email protected] if you have questions.
Friday, August 11th
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Join a park naturalist on a 1 hr. wildflower walk around the summit area of Mount Revelstoke and learn how alpine plants have adapted to live in a cold place covered in meters of snow for half the year. Expect roughly 2.5 kilometres of walking on uneven dirt trails with some steep sections (rated “easy” by Mount Revelstoke criteria). Meet at the Balsam Lake bus shelter (see shuttle map for details). Please note that the shuttle does not stop at this bus shelter.
To Register:
Email [email protected]. Notify staff if you need the shuttle for the event when you register. Drop-ins welcome if space allows (note: these events typically fill up). Must have a valid parks pass, available for purchase from the downtown kiosk or at the entrance to the park.
Parks Canada Info:
Dress accordingly for weather and activities you are planning to do. Dress with proper footwear, walking shoes highly recommended, bug spray, sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing for possible cooler alpine weather (various layers are recommended for various weather possibilities) and anything else you may need. Dry toilets are available throughout the park. Pack all your water and food needs. No food, water, or beverage services are available. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the summit area of Mount Revelstoke National Park or on the shuttle bus. In the event that the summit parking lots are full, passenger vehicles may be turned away from the parkway at the base and participants will not be able to access the meeting point. Arrive early to improve your chances of accessing the summit. A shuttle is also available from downtown Revelstoke (see the Shuttle event for more details).
10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Drop into the Balsam Lake Picnic Shelter near the summit of Mount Revelstoke National Park (see shuttle map for details) and join us for some wildflower watercolour painting. All supplies for family-friendly painting are provided. Current Park Pass required.
Parks Canada Info:
No cell service is available at this location. Dress accordingly for the weather and activities you are planning to do. Dress with proper footwear, walking shoes highly recommended, bug spray, sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing for possible cooler alpine weather (various layers are recommended for various weather possibilities) and anything else you may need. Dry toilets are available throughout the park. Pack all your water and food needs. No food, water, or beverage services are available. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the summit area of Mount Revelstoke National Park or on the shuttle bus. In the event that the summit parking lots are full, passenger vehicles may be turned away from the parkway at the base and participants will not be able to access the meeting point. Arrive early to improve your chances of accessing the summit. A shuttle is also available from downtown Revelstoke (see the Shuttle event for more details).
2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Join the Parks Canada Resource Conservation vegetation specialists for an introduction to invasive species biology, identification, and adaptations to alpine environment. You will learn how to properly remove certain invasive species, how they spread, and what we do to curb the impact of those plants on the wildflower meadows. The 1.5 hour workshop will focus on the removal of vetch and other invasive species around Balsam and Heather Lake area. Be prepared to do some light hiking. Meet at the Balsam Lake visitor information tent and shuttle stop.
Registration
Email [email protected]. Notify staff if you need the shuttle for the event when you register. Drop-ins welcome if space allows (note: these events typically fill up). Must have a valid parks pass, available for purchase from the downtown kiosk or at the entrance to the park.
Parks Canada Info:
Dress accordingly for the weather and activities you are planning to do. Dress with proper footwear, walking shoes highly recommended, bug spray, sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing for possible cooler alpine weather (various layers are recommended for various weather possibilities) and anything else you may need. Dry toilets are available throughout the park. Pack all your water and food needs. No food, water, or beverage services are available. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the summit area of Mount Revelstoke National Park or on the shuttle bus. In the event that the summit parking lots are full, passenger vehicles may be turned away from the parkway at the base and participants will not be able to access the meeting point. Arrive early to improve your chances of accessing the summit. A shuttle is also available from downtown Revelstoke (see the Shuttle event for more details).
Join online nature-educating sensation and Naturalist, Rachael Tancock @thenatureeducator and the Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society (CSISS) for a nature wander to explore, appreciate, and identify wildflowers using technology you're already carrying. During the program, participants will walk along a portion of the Greenbelt (less than 1km total) and learn about local native biodiversity, invasive species, and plant identification tips. Participants should be prepared with walking shoes, iNaturalist or Seek (great for kids) free apps downloaded onto their device, water, and sun protection. This event is suitable for families and people of all ages. Afterwards, feel free to register for the CSISS Weed Pull contest and pizza party at the same location!
Armed with gloves and determination, you’ll have just 5 minutes to race against the clock, weeding as many invasive species as you can from your team's designated plot. The goal is to remove as many of these intruders as possible within the time limit. It’s a test of speed, skill, and teamwork! Teams can contain up to 4 people. Prizes have been donated from Dose, La Baguette, Birch & Lace, and Revelstoke Garden Centre. Afterwards, join us for pizza and beverages as a thank you for your contribution.
Saturday, August 12th
9:00 am- 12:30 pm
Gazebo, Revelstoke Farm & Craft Market
Join the Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre and decorate a tote bag with a hand-cut linoleum block design commemorating the 2023 Wildflower Festival. Items will be machine washable once they've dried. Twenty bags will be available for a suggested donation of $10 each, or you can bring your own fabric items to be customized with this year's design.
We're hoping to make this an annual event, so bring an item that has room to add designs in years to come.
10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Join us for an exciting adventure that combines hiking and art! Discover the beauty of The Greely hiking trails at Revelstoke Mountain Resort while sketching what you see and feel. Turbo Bambi, a local artist and athlete as well as the designer of the Wildflower Festival logo, will lead the hike and provide guidance on choosing drawing subjects and techniques. All skill levels are welcome, and participants will receive sketchbooks, pencils, erasers, sharpeners, markers, and a drink ticket for the Mackenzie Outpost.
Registration
$20. Participants must be over the age of 19. Tickets will be available online at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort events webpage.
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Drop into the Balsam Lake Picnic Shelter near the summit of Mount Revelstoke and join us for some wildflower watercolour painting. All supplies for family-friendly painting are provided. Current Park Pass require.
Parks Canada Info:
Dress accordingly for the weather and activities you are planning to do. Dress with proper footwear, walking shoes highly recommended, bug spray, sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing for possible cooler alpine weather (various layers are recommended for various weather possibilities) and anything else you may need. Dry toilets are available throughout the park. Pack all your water and food needs. No food, water, or beverage services are available. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the summit area of Mount Revelstoke National Park or on the shuttle bus. In the event that the summit parking lots are full, passenger vehicles may be turned away from the parkway at the base and participants will not be able to access the meeting point. Arrive early to improve your chances of accessing the summit. A shuttle is also available from downtown Revelstoke (see the Shuttle event for more details).
Sunday, August 13th
Soak in breathtaking views and vibrant wildflowers at Revelation Lodge for a delightful tea experience from 11am to 1pm with live music and tea from wildflowers foraged from the resort.
Menu: Cakerie Cakes, Mini Croissants, Cheesecake Bites, Fruit Tart, Fruit Platter, Chicken Coronation Tea Sandwich, Cucumber Sprout & Avocado Aioli Tea Sandwich, Crostini. Selection of wildflower teas foraged on the mountain or locally by Kim Spence including Mullein, Chamomile, and Fireweed with local honey.
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Mix and mingle among the gardens of the Local Food Initiative outside the Visual Arts Centre for a semiformal garden party and pop-up pottery shop. Potters will be selling their creations, and also engaging in friendly skills competitions on-site. Light refreshments will be available. Semi-formal dress is encouraged, but not required.
9:00 am Pottery Sales Begin
10:00 am Live Pottery Competitions:
10:00am - Fastest throw
10:30am - Widest Bowl Blindfolded
11:00am - Tallest Item in 5 minutes
11:30 am - Partner Pottery - One hand each
12:00 pm - One Handed Pottery
12:30 pm - Pinch Pot Garden Gnomes
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Drop into the Balsam Lake Picnic Shelter near the summit of Mount Revelstoke and join us for some wildflower watercolour painting. All supplies for family-friendly painting are provided. Current Park Pass required.
Parks Canada Info:
Dress accordingly for the weather and activities you are planning to do. Dress with proper footwear, walking shoes highly recommended, bug spray, sunscreen, hat, appropriate clothing for possible cooler alpine weather (various layers are recommended for various weather possibilities) and anything else you may need. Dry toilets are available throughout the park. Pack all your water and food needs. No food, water, or beverage services are available. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the summit area of Mount Revelstoke National Park or on the shuttle bus. In the event that the summit parking lots are full, passenger vehicles may be turned away from the parkway at the base and participants will not be able to access the meeting point. Arrive early to improve your chances of accessing the summit. A shuttle is also available from downtown Revelstoke (see the Shuttle event for more details).
Notice of Filming and Photography: When you attend Wildflower Festival events, you enter an area where photography, audio, and video recording may occur. By entering the event premises, you consent to such recording media and its release, publication, exhibition or reproduction.
Wildflowers of Revelstoke
Before heading out on the trails, study up and become familiar with the various species of wildflowers you can find in the Revelstoke area.
This guide put together by Parks Canada will help you to identify real wildflowers as you explore the alpine!
Typically, wildflowers bloom from late July into mid-August depending on spring temperatures and the previous winter's snowpack.
VISIT MT. REVELSTOKE NATIONAL PARK
The Meadows In The Sky Parkway allows you to drive your own vehicle into the alpine with a valid Parks pass. At the summit of the park, you can explore the trails, read exhibits located on interpretive trails, or simply soak in the views.
DISCOVER THE ALPINE
While Revelstoke's mountain scenery is spectacular year-round, there's nothing quite like seeing it at the peak of wildflower season. Our alpine is accessible to everyone whether you're looking to hike, bike, or sight-see. Head to Revelstoke Mountain Resort for Gondola access hiking or sight seeing, plan a backcountry hiking trip in Glacier or Mount Revelstoke National Park, or check out one of our 3 alpine mountain bike epics.
4 places to experience our iconic wildflowers
Whether you like to hike, bike or just sight see, our alpine is accessible to everyone.
Head to our guide to find out the top places to experience Revelstoke's iconic wildflowers this summer.