The best walks and hikes in English Lake Provincial Park
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Hiking in English Lake Provincial Park offers a backcountry experience within 337 hectares of rugged natural environment in British Columbia. The park is characterized by its tranquil English Lake, dense forests of cedar, fir, and hemlock, and the prominent triple-peaked Mount Begbie. This region provides varied terrain, from serene lake loops to challenging alpine ascents, shaped by its geological history and glacial activity.
Best hiking trails in English Lake Provincial Park
- The most popular hiking route is Mount Begbie Trail, a 10.4 miles (16.8 km) difficult trail that takes 8 hours 30 minutes to complete. This route features a significant elevation gain of 6,556 feet (2,000 meters) and offers alpine views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Begbie Falls – Columbia River loop from Begbie Falls Recreation Site, a moderate 5.8 miles (9.4 km) path. This trail winds through dense forests and provides views of the Columbia River.
- Local hikers also love the Beaver Lake loop from Beaver Lake, a 3.4 miles (5.4 km) trail leading through tranquil forest around Beaver Lake, often completed in about 1 hour 37 minutes.
- Hiking in English Lake Provincial Park is defined by dense forests, English Lake, and the imposing Mount Begbie. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to challenging mountain ascents.
- The routes in English Lake Provincial Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore English Lake Provincial Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 7, 2026
5.0
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21
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16.8km
08:31
2,000m
2,000m
Hike the difficult Mount Begbie Trail, a 10.4-mile route with 6556 feet of elevation gain, offering alpine views near Revelstoke.
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161
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5.16km
01:33
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
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25
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
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5.45km
01:37
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
82
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around English Lake Provincial Park
Tips from the Community
Nice waterfall. Unfortunately, lots of mosquitoes.
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Begbie Falls is an impressive double waterfall surrounded by gorgeous, mossy forest and towering cliffs. They're easy to reach: you can hike here on the Bluff Trail that starts at the nearby highway, or you can drive on the service road and park quite close to the falls. On the way here, you pass a few viewing points, mainly from above, but this spot gives you the best frame of the falls; it's stunning.
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Here, you can see Begbie Creek run into Columbia River. The views are great, and there's even a picnic table in case you want to relax and enjoy the view a little longer. The river with Mount Cartier in the background is really postcard perfect.
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This is a small backpacker campground that sits just below the glacier on Mount Begbie. The campground consists of four tent pads and a toilet.
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Mount Begbie sits above the town of Revelstoke at 2,733 m in the Gold Range of the Monashee Mountains. The views from the summit are incredible, with the Monashees on one side and looking down on Revelstoke from the other.
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Mount Begbie Trailhead sits approximately 10 km south of Revelstoke. The trailhead offers a few tent pads for camping and an outhouse.
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In mid-September we were able to observe salmon coming up the river to spawn.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in English Lake Provincial Park?
English Lake Provincial Park offers a selection of 5 hiking routes, catering to various skill levels. These include challenging alpine ascents and more relaxed lake loops.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in English Lake Provincial Park?
The park features diverse terrain, from dense forests of cedar, fir, and hemlock around English Lake to the rugged, imposing presence of Mount Begbie. You can expect tranquil forest paths, lakeside trails, and challenging alpine sections with significant elevation gain.
What are the main natural features or landmarks to look out for in English Lake Provincial Park?
Key natural features include the serene English Lake, the prominent triple-peaked Mount Begbie, and lush forests. Nearby, you can also explore Begbie Falls and the Columbia River, which are part of some popular hiking loops.
What do other hikers say about the trails in English Lake Provincial Park?
The trails in English Lake Provincial Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the park's backcountry feel, the stunning views of Mount Begbie, and the peaceful atmosphere around English Lake.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers in English Lake Provincial Park?
Yes, for experienced trekkers, the Mount Begbie Trail is a demanding option. This 10.4-mile (16.8 km) route involves a significant elevation gain of 6,556 feet (2,000 meters) and offers rewarding alpine views, often including glaciers at higher elevations.
Are there easy or family-friendly hiking options in English Lake Provincial Park?
Yes, for easier walks, consider the Beaver Lake loop from Beaver Lake, which is an easy 3.4-mile (5.4 km) trail through tranquil forest. The Begbie Falls – Columbia River loop from Begbie Falls is another easy option, offering scenic views without extreme difficulty.
Can I find circular hiking routes in English Lake Provincial Park?
Yes, several routes in the area are circular. Popular options include the Beaver Lake loop from Beaver Lake and the Begbie Falls – Columbia River loop from Begbie Falls Recreation Site, both offering a complete loop experience.
Is English Lake Provincial Park suitable for hiking with dogs?
English Lake Provincial Park is a provincial park in British Columbia. Generally, dogs are permitted on trails in BC Provincial Parks but must be kept on a leash. It's always best to check the latest regulations on the BC Parks website for specific rules regarding pets in this undeveloped park.
What is the best time of year to visit English Lake Provincial Park for hiking?
The best time to visit for hiking is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall, when trails are clear of snow and weather conditions are most favorable. Mount Begbie's higher elevations may retain snow later into the season.
Are there any facilities or amenities available in English Lake Provincial Park?
English Lake Provincial Park is a relatively undeveloped park, offering a rustic backcountry experience. There are no formal facilities or services, such as visitor centers, washrooms, or designated parking lots, so visitors should be prepared to be self-sufficient.
Do I need a permit to hike in English Lake Provincial Park?
As a provincial park in British Columbia, day-use permits are generally not required for hiking. However, it's always advisable to check the official BC Parks website for any current regulations or advisories, especially for backcountry use or specific activities.
What other activities can I do in English Lake Provincial Park besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, the tranquil environment of English Lake Provincial Park supports activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in English Lake. The remote location is also excellent for photography, stargazing, and wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot deer, bears, and various bird species.
Most popular routes in English Lake Provincial Park
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