A national park on our doorstep.
Mount Revelstoke may not be the most prominent peak in Revelstoke’s skyline, but it is one of the most prominent mountains in our town’s history. It’s easily accessible from downtown, was the historical home of skiing, and has been a national park since 1914. It is also a symbol to locals of the power of community, as it became a national park thanks to the hard work and advocacy of Revelstoke residents.
History
1906
Mountaineers Visit Balsam Lake
A group of mountaineers visited Balsam Lake in what is now Mount Revelstoke National Park, and A. E. Miller published an article in the Mail-Herald about the park. The idea was to develop a road to the summit.
1908
A Trail Was Developed
The climb was said to be so gentle that even pack ponies could make it to the summit. In 1909, the Revelstoke Mountaineering Club was formed, and a small cabin was built at the summit.
1912
Road To The Summit
The government was asked to help develop a road to the summit. A surveyor noted that it would be 14.5 miles long and the grade would go from a gentle 6.5 to 8 percent. Discussions of creating a national park continued, with ongoing debate about its name. At the time, Mount Revelstoke was called Mount Victoria, so it was decided that the name should simply be “Revelstoke National Park”.
1920
National Park Renamed
World War I interrupted efforts to build the road to the summit, but when the war ended, road construction moved ahead. In 1920, the name was changed to Mount Revelstoke National Park, which it is today.
1927
The Road Was Finally Finished
After fifteen years of construction, the road was officially opened by the Prince of Wales (Edward) and his brother Prince George.
1958
Foot Access Only
In 1958, conflict emerged between the federal government and local recreationalists. Locals wanted to see the road extended to access Eva and Miller Lakes, while the federal government wanted to see conservation values made paramount. Ultimately, the road was not extended, and the lakes remained accessible by foot only.
The Birthplace of Skiing in Revelstoke.
In March of 1914, the first ski ascent of Mount Revelstoke was made. The Revelstoke Ski Club was officially formed later that year, making it the oldest ski club in British Columbia (with sustained membership as far back as 1891). Revelstoke’s first Winter Carnival was held in February of 1915, with ski jumping just outside of the park boundaries. In 1916, permission was granted to hold ski jumping on Mount Revelstoke within park boundaries. Ski jumping continued on Mount Revelstoke until the 1970s and world records were set on Mount Revelstoke. Today, the ski jumps are marked by the Nels' Knickers, an interactive sculpture for visitors to enjoy.
Nels Nelson Ski Jumping | 1916
Mount Revelstoke Today.
Today, visitors from all over the world enjoy the road to Mount Revelstoke’s summit, famed for wildflower meadows and mountain views. It’s a great way for beginner explorers and seasoned adventurers alike to experience the wonder of the Selkirk Mountains. Hikers, road bikers, artists, and sightseers are drawn to Canada’s most accessible mountain national park, in particular during wildflower season.
Mount Revelstoke remains an important feature in our landscape - a place to recreate and a marker of civic pride.
Mount Revelstoke National Park | P Parks Canada
More Defining Mountains.
Mount Revelstoke National Park
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