Summer in Revelstoke

The Pipe Mountain Coaster

Ski resorts in summer are no longer the exclusive domain of downhill mountain bikers.  Now anyone can feel the rush of blitzing down a mountain, whooping through the glades.  Seated in a go-kart like buggy, Revelstoke’s Pipe Mountain Coaster is a 1.4km single track that twists and turns its way down the mountain.  A simple mechanism allows you to control your speed, which tops out at a safe, but thrilling 42 km/hr.  Gondolas transfer you to the top of the track for multiple passes, which will probably start slow, and keep getting quicker!  The Pipe Mountain Coaster is the fastest of its kind in the country, and just one of many summer highlights to be found in this lively mountain town off the Trans-Canada Highway.

 

Cost : Riders 8 years old and up.  Check out the official site for the latest prices.

Best time to go : Late June to late September.

Wheelchair friendly : Call ahead if arrangements can be made.

Family friendly : Passengers must be 3 to 12 years old and a minimum of 96cm

Where to eat : Revelstoke’s culinary scene punches above its weight. We enjoyed terrific tacos at Taco Club, authentic wood-fired pizza at Nico’s, eclectic Indian at Paramjit’s Kitchen and fine dining at the Quartermaster. If you’re into craft beer, check out the new Rumpus Beer Co.

Official Site : Revelstoke Mountain Resort

Where to Stay : We recommend the historic Regents Hotel, located in the heart of the town, close to restaurants and bars, and the music each night in Grizzly Plaza.

Getting There : If driving in on the Trans-Canada:  Take the first exit into Revelstoke if travelling from Calgary or Banff, or the second exit into Revelstoke if travelling from the West (Vancouver, Kelowna, Kamloops).  Follow 4th Street South, crossing the bridge and turn left onto Nichol Road at the 4-way intersection. Turn right onto Camozzi Road, which will lead you to the base of the Resort.  The closest airport is Kelowna, two and a half hours away.

Note from Robin : There’s plenty to do in Revelstoke in summer besides just hurtling down a mountain! Steps away from the Pipe Mountain Coaster gondola is the Aerial Adventure Park, a four-story ropes course with 50 unique challenges. Besides mountain biking, white river rafting is a popular summer activity. You’ll definitely want to soak your bones and nerves in the warm pools of the excellent Aquatic Centre. A half hour away, there’s also quirky fun to be had at the Enchanted Forest and Skytrek Adventure Park. There are free musical performances in Grizzly Plaza downtown each evening in the summer.

Great Canadian Trails