Nestled in the remote heart of northern British Columbia, Trekking in Tumbler Ridge is an idyll for outdoor enthusiasts. Famous for its stunning vistas and diverse landscapes, the region offers trekking opportunities for hikers of all ages and skill levels.
Best Trekking Trails in Tumbler Ridge
1 – Kinuseo Falls Trails – Trekking in Tumbler Ridge
Length: 1.6km (1 mile)
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated Hiking Time: 1 hour
Highlights: Kinuseo Falls, scenic viewpoints, river views
The Kinuseo Falls Trails is, perhaps, the only trail in Tumbler Ridge you must visit. It’s a short and easy hike that leads to the breathtaking and magnificent Kinuseo Falls, which stand over 60 meters tall (slightly taller than Niagara Falls). The trail offers several viewpoints that provide stunning views of the falls and of Murray River.
2 – Monkman Lake Trail – Trekking in Tumbler Ridge
Length: 22km (13.7 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Estimated Hiking Time: 8-10 hours (overnight trip recommended)
Highlights: Monkman Lake, waterfalls, dense forests
For those seeking a more challenging hike, the Monkman Lake Trail is ideal. This hike takes you deep into Monkman Provincial Park, offering an encompassing experience complete with a dense forest, difficult terrain, and stunning waterfalls. The trail culminates at Monkman Lake, a pristine alpine lake surrounded by majestic peaks. Due to its length and difficulty, the hike is best suited for experienced trekkers and is often done as an overnight trip.
3 – Stone Corral Trail – Trekking in Tumbler Ridge
Length: 3km (1.9 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Estimated Hiking Time: 1-2 hours
Highlights: Porcupine Cave, Corral Cave, limestone formations, fossil murals
The Stone Corral Trail is perfect for adventurers interested in geology and caving. The trail winds through the forest and passes notable unique caves like Porcupine Cave and Corral Cave and offers breathtaking viewpoints and limestone formations adorned with fossil murals.
4 – Barbour Falls Trail – Trekking in Tumbler Ridge
Length: 4km (2.5 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Highlights: Barbour Falls, river views, lush forest
The Barbour Falls Trail is a moderate hike that rewards avid trekkers with the stunning views of Barbour Falls. The trail winds through the lush forest and along the riverbank, concluding at Barbour Falls – a beautiful cascade of water that offers a perfect spot for a break and great photos.
5 – Quality Canyon Trail – Trekking in Tumbler Ridge
Length: 5km (3.1 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Estimated Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Highlights: Canyon views, river vistas, diverse flora
The Quality Canyon Trail offers hikers a moderately challenging hike with impressive canyon and river views. The trail snakes through the dense flora on a backdrop of the canyon, making this trail a favorite among nature photographers.
Practical Tips for Trekking in Tumbler Ridge
Trail Safety
- Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and ensure your own safety.
- Inform someone of your plans and let them know your route, how long it’s going to take, and your expected return time.
- Wildlife awareness is key in less populated areas of the province. Always be aware of the local wildlife, including bears. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Weather conditions should be checked before heading out and contingency plans should be made if the forecast suddenly changes.
Necessary Gear
- Proper footwear – the one piece of equipment you do not want to cheap out on. Get a sturdy pair of hiking boots with good ankle support and at minimum a water-resistant design.
- Navigation tools – Carry a physical map, compass, and/or a GPS device, and know how to use them.
- Hydration – Bring plenty of water. Strongly consider portable water filters for longer treks.
- First aid kit – A basic first aid kit with band aids, rubbing alcohol (to avoid infections), tweezers, gauze, safety pins, pain relievers (like Tylenol or ibuprofen), antihistamines (allergy), antacids, electrolyte tablets (to avoid dehydration), antidiarrheal medication, instant cold packs, hydrocortisone cream (for rashes and insect bites), and any personal medication you may need daily.
- Clothing – A good rule of thumb is to put on one more layer than you think you will need. If planning for an overnight hike, a good sleeping blanket or even a tent may be required.
- Food – Pack as much food as you think you will need for the duration of the hike, and then double it, preferably focusing on energy and protein-dense foods like jerky, protein bars, bananas, cooked eggs, baked beans, and nuts (but only if you will have plenty water, as nuts are extremely dehydrating).
Best Times to Trek
The best time to trek in Tumbler Ridge is during the summer, from late June to early September. During the summer months, the weather is generally mild, and most trails are accessible. However, some trails may still have snow at higher elevations early in the season, so be prepared for varying conditions.
Unique Aspects of Trekking in Tumbler Ridge
Fossil Sites
Tumbler Ridge is part of the Tumbler Ridge Global Geopark, a UNESCO-designated site known for its rich fossil beds. While trekking, you may come across fossilized remains, adding a unique historical dimension to your hike.
Geological Formations
The region’s diverse geo-formations include limestone caves, canyons, and waterfalls, and provide a fascinating backdrop for your hikes.
Experience the Gem of Northern British Columbia this Summer
Tumbler Ridge is a trekker’s paradise, offering a wide variety of trails that can be enjoyed by hikers of all skill levels and interests. From the simple, yet extravagantly gorgeous Kinuseo Falls Trails to the challenging Monkman Lake Trail. there is something for everyone in this remote part of Northern British Columbia. With practical tips on trail safety and gear, we hope this guide will help you make the most of your trekking adventure in Tumbler Ridge this summer!
