Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area is a diverse outdoor region situated along the Coquihalla Highway in British Columbia, approximately 28 miles (45 km) north of Hope. This area serves as a geological transition zone, featuring varied landscapes that include granite peaks, buttes, plateaus, and subalpine forests. Its unique geography supports several sports like hiking, offering a range of terrain for outdoor activities.
The Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area provides opportunities for outdoor activities across…
5
Routes
5
(5)
Average rating
146
People visited

5.0
(2)
42
hikers
9.06km
04:58
790m
790m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

5.0
(3)
38
hikers
10.2km
05:17
850m
850m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

28
hikers
9.52km
04:24
660m
660m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

27
hikers
8.23km
04:01
600m
600m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area offers opportunities for hiking and jogging. The area features 6 routes, with options ranging from challenging ascents to more accessible trails. These routes have received an average rating of 5.0 stars from more than 100 visitors.
Popular hiking trails include Needle Peak Trail, Yak Peak Trail, and Zoa Peak Trail, which offer significant elevation gains and panoramic views. For a less strenuous option, Falls Lake Trail provides a scenic experience. More details can be found in the Hiking in Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area guide.
Yes, the area features several challenging hikes. Needle Peak Trail is a difficult 5.3-mile (8.5 km) out-and-back route with 2,683 feet (818 m) of elevation gain. Yak Peak Trail is a steep 3.7-mile (6 km) trail with 2,519 feet (768 m) of elevation gain, involving granite slabs and light scrambling sections.
Falls Lake Trail is a shorter, well-marked option suitable for those seeking a less strenuous hike. This trail provides scenic views of the subalpine lake and surrounding peaks. It is generally considered a more accessible choice within the recreation area.
The area is characterized by impressive granite peaks such as Needle Peak, Yak Peak, Zoa Peak, and Flatiron Peak. It also features diverse biogeoclimatic zones and the scenic subalpine Falls Lake. These elements contribute to varied landscapes and panoramic mountain views.
Falls Lake is a beautiful subalpine lake offering scenic views, particularly of Nak Peak and Zoa Peak. It provides a less strenuous hiking option compared to the higher peaks. The lake is also known for rainbow trout fishing and opportunities for backcountry camping.
The region has a history as a transportation route. Visitors can find remnants of the old Kettle Valley Railway, which operated from the early 1900s to the 1960s. The historic Hope-Nicola Trail, dating back to 1876, also passes through the area.
Needle Peak is the highest and most prominent peak in the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area, reaching an elevation of 2,085 feet (636 m). It offers extensive views from its summit after a challenging ascent.
There are 6 routes available in Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area on komoot. These routes cater to various activities, including hiking and jogging, and have an average rating of 5.0 stars.
A comprehensive guide for hiking in the region is available. The Hiking in Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area guide provides detailed information on routes and points of interest.
The official website for Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area is part of the BC Parks system, accessible at bcparks.ca/coquihalla-summit-recreation-area/. For general inquiries, a phone number of +1-800-689-9025 is available.
Yes, the area allows for backcountry camping, providing opportunities for multi-day adventures. Falls Lake is one location within the recreation area that offers suitable spots for backcountry camping.

