Mount Macpherson is perfectly framed by downtown revelstoke's mackenzie avenue.
Mount Macpherson might not be the most dominant peak in Revelstoke’s skyline, but it is a popular destination for hiking, biking, nordic skiing, backcountry skiing, heli skiing, and snowmobiling. In short, Mount Macpherson is a magnet for activities, and has been for many years.
What's in a name?
Mount Macpherson is named for Sir David Lewis Macpherson (1818-1896), a father of confederation who served as Minister of the Interior during the heyday of the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway through British Columbia’s mountains.
Macpherson also seems to be one of the most commonly misspelled place names in Revelstoke, so take note - it’s M-a-c and a lower case p!
The mountain itself.
Mount Macpherson stands at 2427 metres (although depending on which source you use, it may be 2418 metres or 2405 metres!) and is part of the Gold Range in the Monashee Mountains.
Its rounded summit appears mellow and inviting compared to neighbouring Mount Begbie and Mount Tilley. From neighbouring summits, you can make out the radio repeaters on Macpherson's summit - green cones that look like cartoon trees!
Recreation.
In the winter, Macpherson is a popular destination for skiers and snowmobilers. However, the pitch of the summit makes it a better destination on a day with good stability. Lower down on Mount Macpherson is the Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club, featuring an abundance of well groomed nordic ski trails. A feature of the trails for many is the Ole Sandberg cabin, a great spot to light a fire and get cozy on a winter's day. Snowshoeing trails are also available.
Mount Macpherson was the first destination for heli skiing in Revelstoke. In 1964, Mike McDonagh of Okanagan Helicopters flew three local men to the summit of Mount Macpherson. It took them four hours to descend to the valley bottom. Today the area around Mount Macpherson is part of the incredible tenure of Eagle Pass Heliskiing.
In the summer, Mount Macpherson can be accessed by two separate hiking trails. The primary trail is difficult, approximately 8km each way. The alternative trail starts a little closer to town but is also difficult. Either way, hikers will be rewarded with sublime views from the summit.
Mount Macpherson is also the home of the Revelstoke Cycling Association's fantastic network of cross country mountain bike trails. Suitable for riders of all skill levels, the Macpherson trails are a must do in the summer.
Thanks to the Revelstoke Museum and Archives for their assistance with this blog post.
Find more things to do.
There's never a dull moment in Revelstoke. Whether you're looking to chill out or go full throttle, we've got plenty to keep you occupied during your stay. Revelstoke is a town for all seasons, with adventure waiting at your doorstep.