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Hiking Trails

Distance: 4.5 km  Time: 4.5 hours   Elevation Gain: 710 metres   Maintained by our staff.   Easy

This trail meanders along Sullivan Creek. Originally built to transport supplies to the old Thompson Forestry Lookout town, the trail thakes you through beautiful cedar-hemlock forests that boast an abundant and diverse population of fungi. This mainly shaded trail provides hikers with relief from the sun, making it a wonderful summer hike. this trail provides excellent opportunity for hiking, horse-back riding, or trail running and is also open to mountain bikers. For trailhead directions from Hwy 3, details and map: READ MORE

Creston Community Forest Trails

Explore the scenic trails of the Creston Community Forest and immerse yourself in nature's beauty!
We proudly manage and maintain a variety of trails in the Creston area, including Lady Slipper, Thompson Rim Trail, Thompson Rotary Trail, Thompson Pack Trail, Big Bear Viewpoint, Billy Goat Bluffs, Gliders’ Point and the West Ridge Trail.

Mount Thompson Trail System

Mt. Thompson Pack Trail

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Mt. Thompson Rim Trail

Distance: 10.5 km  Time: 5 hours   Elevation Gain: 244 metres   Maintained by our staff.   Moderate: 

Hike through meadows along an open ridge atop Mount Thompson along a trail that climbs and descends. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges, the patchwork of farmland, sights of Creston, with lakes and so much more. For trailhead directions from Hwy 3, details and map: READ MORE

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West Ridge Trail

Distance: 6 km  Time: 7 hours   Elevation Gain: 1.1 km   Maintained by our staff.   Difficult: 

Built in 2019, the Westridge trail makes it possible to hike from the Creston Valley floor to the top of Mt. Thompson. Beginning 1.3 kms up the Sullivan Creek trail, the trail traverses along a ridge through a mix of shaded forest and rocky open meadows. This trail will bring you to the top of the mountain, where you will find the trailhead to the Rim Trail and a camping site. For trailhead directions from Hwy 3, details and map: READ MORE

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Out There: The Creston Community Forest Trails
‘Many of the local trails pass through varying terrain including forest cover, below cliffs and scree slopes, and through other natural landscapes and terrain.’

By Ed McMackin, a biologist by training and a naturalist by nature

In its initial years, the Creston Community Forest was committed to several goals, among which was to return into the community a major part of its profits. That was a difficult goal to meet in its beginning years, but now the tables have turned, as the Creston Community Forest has grown and been allotted more timberland, profits have increased, and now recreational aspects of the Kootenay Lake and Creston area are benefiting from a fresh supply of support and funding.

Not only have existing trails been improved and new trails opened up, but there are enhancements including kiosks with descriptive maps, benches, picnic tables, and sturdy bridges. Signs along the trails also display information on the natural history of the area. Trails are alsocleared each spring, maintained, and regularly checked on as quickly as possible after storms. Many of the local trails pass through... (full article here)

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STAY IN THE LOOP!

Sign up for our newsletter below to stay updated on upcoming trail work, events, and more. Don't miss out on the latest news, opportunities to get involved and join our online community to be the first to know.

Creston Community Forest Newsletter sign up link: 
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Join us on a Field Trip

Are you ready for an immersive adventure that will take you deep into the heart of our Community Forest? Our field trips offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature, learn about local ecosystems, and witness the awe-inspiring wonders that surround us.

Whether you're a seasoned nature enthusiast or a curious beginner, come join us on a journey of discovery and unlock a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty in our very own backyard.

For more information on forest education, email Daniel Gratton at:
dgratton@crestoncommunityforest.com or call 250.402.0070

Volunteer with Us

Volunteer on Work Bees:

Are you ready to roll up your sleeves, grab a shovel, and make a tangible difference in our Community Forest? Our work bees offer an exciting opportunity to actively participate in the creation and maintenance of hiking trails. As a work bee volunteer, you will:
  • Get hands-on experience in trail building and maintenance.
  • Join our team of volunteers during scheduled work bees.
  • Contribute to the development of hiking trails in our Community Forest.
  • Learn practical skills related to trail construction, such as trail design, clearing vegetation, and installing trail markers.
  • Enjoy the satisfaction of creating recreational opportunities for our community while preserving the natural beauty of the forest.
 
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Events

While there may not be any current events or opportunities, we are continuously working on new initiatives and projects in our Community Forest. We value your interest in getting involved and appreciate your patience as we strive to create meaningful ways for you to contribute to our conservation efforts.
 
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