Trail Info

Trailhead

In Nelson, follow Highway 3A across the Big Orange Bridge and then turn onto Johnstone Road. Reach the trailhead 3km down the road. There is an overflow parking area.

Pulpit Rock Trail

Distance: 3.6km, round trip
Elevation: +338m

Pulpit Rock is easily the most popular trail in Nelson. With lots of switch-backs, the trail provides a good work-out before it ends on top of Pulpit Rock with a big view over town. Learn more on West Kootenay Hiking.

Flagpole Trail

Distance: 5.8km, round trip (including Pulpit Rock Trail)
Elevation: +655m (including Pulpit Rock Trail)

An extension of the Pulpit Rock Trail, the Flagpole Trail network can be hiked as a loop with a difficult or moderate route to the top. This trail provides big views west over the Kootenay River Valley. The wildflowers are great in May! Learn more on West Kootenay Hiking.

CBC Tower Trail

Distance: 14.1km, round trip (including Pulpit Rock Trail)
Elevation: +1120m (including Pulpit Rock Trail)

Going even further from the Flagpole Trail, you can hike all the way to the top of Elephant Mountain on the CBC Tower Trail. This is a challenging hike and takes 6-8 hours. Learn more on West Kootenay Hiking.

Lyon’s Bluff Trail

Distance: to be determined
Elevation: to be determined

The Lyon’s Bluff Trail is under development in 2020. It will have a separate trailhead at One Mile and eventually connect up to the CBC Tower. For more information, see Lyon’s Bluff Trail Development.