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Situated on the doorstep of Mount Robson Provincial Park lies arguably one of the most underrated mountain towns in Canada. Valemount, British Columbia is a humble place surrounded by landscapes that can only be described as magnificent. This, along with the many amazing things to do in BC found here make it a must-visit – especially for those who like to stay off the beaten path.
Valemount is home to a rather small population of only 1,000 permanent residents. However, every year thousands of people come here to eat, explore, and experience all that Valemount has to offer. With that said, don’t expect the crowds of Banff, Whistler, or even Revelstoke.
Instead, experience the Canadian wilderness free from large crowds and those annoying tour groups.
With that said, knowing where to spend your time in Valemount isn’t as obvious as other mountain destinations in Canada. So, with the help of some local friends, I’ve written this guide on the 17 best things to do in Valemount, BC to help plan your upcoming visit!
Things to do in Valemount, BC
1. Visit Mount Robson Provincial Park
Without a doubt, one of the most popular things to do in Valemount is to explore Mount Robson Provincial Park. Of course, the most famous attraction is the famous Berg Lake Trail (more on that below) but even visitors without a few days can visit some pretty spectacular places within the park.
For those short on time, be sure to head to the Mt Robson Visitor Centre to not only read up on the park but to admire those breathtaking views of Canada’s tallest peak in the Rocky Mountains.
If you want to get closer to the action, then consider riding or hiking to Kinney Lake. This 7-kilometer/4.3-mile (each way) journey starts near the visitor center and leads to a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains. You can enjoy your packed lunch here and even go for a swim (if you dare!) If you ride a horse, it only takes 45 minutes each way, and hiking is around 2 hours each way.
Not a hiker? Then take a drive a little further to Moose Lake. Here, there is a pullover bay where you can enjoy the gorgeous mountain views and on a calm day, mirror-like reflections!
The Mount Robson Visitor Centre is located about a 25-minute drive from Valemount heading out of town towards Jasper.
Related Read: Visiting Mt Robson is also one of the best things to do in Jasper!
2. Hike the Berg Lake Trail
2023 Update: Berg Lake Trail is currently closed due to flood damage back in 2021. Currently, the parking lot and trail are undergoing maintenance and both the parking lot and trail to Kinney Lake Campground is expected to reopen on June 27th, 2023. The trail beyond the campground will remain closed for the remained of the year. Check for updates here before you go!
The most beautiful hike I have done in Canada is the Berg Lake Trail – seriously! The 41.5-kilometer out-and-back trail (27.8 miles) is most commonly hiked over 3 to 4 days and it’s certainly not easy.
The journey to Berg Lake is long and sections of the trail are very steep, however, along the way you’ll get to see the Valley of a Thousand Waterfalls, Emperor Falls (first image at the top of this blog), and of course Berg Lake and the Berg Glacier. These are just a few of the highlights and there are plenty more along the way.
The hardest thing about this trail is booking it and if you plan on hiking the Berg Lake Trail, you need to plan well ahead. Check out some of the blogs available online as well as the BC Parks website (they have a great video you can watch.)
This is one of those hiking trails that truly takes your breath away and almost has you in tears. If you love hiking, add it to the top of your bucket list!
3. Go mountain biking
Valemount is quickly becoming one of the best places in Canada to go mountain biking. The Valemount Bike Park is loved by locals and visitors are only just beginning to find this hidden gem. Of course, the secret will get out eventually and that’s the point right? The more visitors, the more upgrades!
The entire park is huge and there are 45 trails to choose from all ranging in length and difficulty. Novice riders can enjoy trails such as Inversion and the more experienced can test their skill on Andreas’ Downhill.
If you’re a keen mountain biker then don’t miss this chance. But even if you’re completely new, you can rent bikes in Valemount at Bikes & Bites and give it a go.
4. Visit Three Ranges Brewing Company
If you love craft beer as much as I do, then a stop at Three Ranges Brewing is a must-do while you’re in Valemount.
This small local brewery serves up some great beers and with 10 regulars to choose from, I’m almost certain there is something for everyone. On top of that, they have 6 seasonal beers and 2 occasional beers. I’m sure by the time you visit they’ll even have more! My favorite though is the Trail Slap IPA because I’m a sucker for hops!
In summer, they have a nice outdoor area to soak up the rays, and if the weather isn’t worthy, you can cozy up indoors. Regardless, having a beer at Three Ranges Brewing is one of my favorite things to do in Valemount!
Related Read: Check out the best breweries in Banff, Alberta as well as the best breweries in Kelowna, BC!
5. Go on a scenic flight
I considered going on a scenic flight many times in Canada, however, I always held off for the perfect place. Well, after hiking the Berg Lake Trail, I decided I wanted to see the most beautiful place in Canada from the air. So that’s exactly what I did!
On a 36-minute flight called the Majestic Mt Robson, we soared through the mountains, over turquoise lakes, and white glaciers. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my life and the best scenic flight I have done in the world.
All that was only $265 CAD per person which for a 36-minute scenic flight is really well priced.
The company I went with was Robson Heli Magic and although they do offer cheaper tours, this is the only tour that visits Mt Robson and Berg Lake. In fact, they even offer a hike one-way tour where they’ll drop you at Berg Lake so you only have to hike back down. This is perfect if the 41.5-kilometer trail (27.8 miles) seems a little too daunting!
Seriously, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t regret!
6. Go dog sledding
If you’re visiting Valemount in winter, there are plenty of activities on this blog you won’t be able to do. However, there are plenty of winter-specific activities you’ll find too, and one of the best is dog sledding!
I myself have been dog-sledding before. It was a bucket list experience for me that I did during winter in Canmore.
Cold Fire Creek Dogsledding is located around 25 minutes west of Valemount and they offer 3 different tours. The first is a nice introduction to dog sledding and is similar to what I did in Canmore. The tour involves a 10-kilometer (6.2 miles) ride and lasts around 1 hour. The cost is $225 CAD per adult and it also includes homemade treats and a hot beverage!
If you want a longer experience, they also offer an 18-kilometer tour (11.2 miles) and a 36-kilometer (22.4 mi) private tour. Both these tours include a BBQ lunch!
The 18-kilometer (11.2 miles) Moonshiners of Whiskey Creek Tour is their most popular because the 3-hour duration will give you enough time to venture deep into the Canadian Rockies before getting to learn about the area and sport of dog sledding while huddled around the campfire enjoying your lunch spread.
This experience is a lot more expensive than the 60-minute tour costing $450 CAD but if you have the budget it will be unforgettable!
Dog sledding is a true Canadian experience you have to do at least once, and Valemount is a great place to do it!
7. Eat at Valemount Swiss Bakery
The Valemount Swiss Bakery is one of those places many people miss, however to the locals, it’s a huge hit and famous around this small town.
Head here for the best fresh-baked goods in all of Valemount as well as delicious meals and sweets. I myself love the bread here, and along with some supplies from the local supermarket, I make amazing sandwiches perfect for a day exploring the mountains.
On top of that, Valemount Swiss Bakery is a great place to get a coffee. Grab a cappuccino and a cinnamon bun – arguably the best combination!
The bakery is open from 10 am to 4 pm but only on certain days depending on the time of the year. It’s best to check their website before going.
8. Whitewater rafting
White water rafting is one of my favorite summer activities in Canada. In Valemount, you can enjoy a bumpy ride down the Fraser River with Mt Robson towering above you. I’m not sure there is a more beautiful place to white water raft in Canada!
There are two companies in Valemount to choose from, Stellar Descents White Water Rafting and Mt Robson White Water Rafting. Both offer pretty much the same tours that include a Fraser River scenic float and Fraser River white water rafting tour. However, Stellar Descents White Water Rafting also offers tours down the Beaver River and Dore River which are both class 4 rapids that are perfect for more adventurous travelers.
The scenic float is more for those who want to enjoy the magnificent views on a relaxing tour of the river. On this tour, you can bring your camera along and get some great photos. The white water rafting, however, is anything but relaxing. On the 3-hour trip, you’ll tackle class 3+ rapids, get splashed with ice-cold water, and scream so loud you’ll scare the bears.
The choice is up to you, but personally, the class 3+ rapids are more my thing!
Related Read: One of the best places in Canada to go white water rafting is in Golden, BC!
9. Visit the Valemount Museum
If you want to learn about the history of Valemount and some of the local stories you simply must visit the Valemount Museum.
Set at the old railway station, the Valemount Museum showcases the unique and interesting history of this small town that includes local war heroes, Japanese Internment camps, and displays of old railway towns. The best part is the entrance to the museum is by donation so you can give whatever amount you feel comfortable with!
This is only a short activity but I’m sure you’ll find it interesting and learn something new!
10. Go fishing
With so much untouched wilderness around Valemount, it’s no wonder fishing is considered one of the best things to do. Not only are your chances of catching a prized rainbow trout good, but with views of the mountains in every direction, you certainly won’t get bored if you don’t.
For rainbow trout, head to Yellowhead Lake or Kinbasket Lake where you’ll also find Rocky Mountain whitefish and lake trout. You can launch your boat here in the summer or enjoy ice fishing in the winter. The best time to fish is in the spring though. You can also head to Moose Lake for a similar experience, however, you can also catch bull trout, ling cod, and kokanee there.
If you prefer to fish from the shoreline then head to the Fraser River. You can easily access the river between Tete Jaune and Mount Robson. There are even some spawning grounds in Tete Jaune where you can catch large rainbow and bull trout here.
You can find more information on fishing in Valemount on the tourism website.
Please Note: You’re required to have a BC fishing license and must adhere to provincial fishing laws. For non-residents, one-day licenses start at $22 CAD and can be purchased online.
11. Go snowmobiling
Aside from the locals and regular visitors to Valemount, few know that this small mountain town is just as much a winter destination as a summer one. In fact, Valemount is eventually getting its own ski resort called Valemount Glacier Destination. But construction on the resort hasn’t started yet (as of June 2023) so you’re going to have to wait a while.
However, don’t let that stop you from getting amongst the powder in Valemount’s backcountry. Snowmobiling has always been a very popular winter activity in Canada and Valemount is famous for it.
Of course, if you don’t have your own snowmobile this isn’t a cheap activity, but tours and rentals are available. If it’s your first time in Valemount, then a tour is the best option. Alpine Country Rentals runs a 7-hour tour with an expert guide which includes your rental from $500 CAD+tax.
If you have your own machine you can also join the tour for only $100 CAD (great if you don’t know the area) or if you need a rental they start at $450 CAD for a full day (including insurance).
Although not the cheapest activity in Valemount, it’s surely got to be the most thrilling!
12. Stay in a log cabin
When it comes to experiencing Valemount the “right way” it’s important to pick a great place to stay. To me, that means getting out of the town and staying in a beautiful log cabin surrounded by nature.
My number one choice every time is the gorgeous Twin Peaks Resort. This small family-run business always proves to be an excellent place to stay, and with only 5 log cabins and a large holiday home, you’ll feel as though you have the place to yourself! The hardest part about staying here is getting a booking – it’s that popular.
Of course, if Twin Peaks Resort is fully booked, then I have a backup. Mica Mountain Lodge & Log Cabins is located far enough from town that you can enjoy a very peaceful stay. Their prices also happen to be very similar to Twin Peaks averaging around $175 CAD a night, and for being my only choice sometimes, it’s not a bad one!
13. Visit Overlander Falls
Those looking for a short trail to stretch their legs and explore should not pass on the opportunity to hike to Overlander Falls. Although not the most spectacular waterfall, the short walk through the pristine forest makes the trail all the more special.
The trail begins near the Mt Robson Visitor Centre and leads you down to the Fraser River where you’ll be able to see Overlander Falls. All up, it only takes around 20 minutes each way.
If you want to hike a longer trail to the falls then there is another Overlander Falls trailhead on Hargreaves Road. From here, the trail is around 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles) each way and follows the Fraser River.
14. Go on an ATV Tour
Summer’s answer to snowmobiling is an ATV tour! Cruise through remote trails and see the countryside while having lots of fun!
Alpine Country Rentals in Valemount run a 2-hour tour for $125 CAD+tax for the rider and it’s only an extra $65 for a passenger. They also have a 3.5-hour tour that’s $185 CAD for the rider and $95 CAD for the passenger. Both tours are super fun, however, for the price difference, the 3.5-hour tour is much better value for money.
Related Read: For even more epic ATVing fun, hop on one of the best ATV tours in Whistler!
15. Head to Rearguard Falls Provincial Park
Rearguard Falls Provincial Park was set up to protect the furthest salmon spawning area up the Fraser River around 1,260 kilometers (783 miles) from the east coast of Canada. It’s located a 20-minute drive from Valemount and is without a doubt one of the most interesting places to visit in Valemount.
If you’re here in August you might be lucky enough to see salmon making their last jump up Rearguard Falls and finally into their spawning area. They must be so relieved to get there!
Even if it’s not August, this place is still worth a visit. It’s a short walk from the parking and there are information boards that tell you all about the massive migration.
Seriously, even I was blown away and am so glad I went!
16. Go cat skiing or heli skiing
Although Valemount doesn’t yet have a ski resort, there is one way to get your downhill fix!
Cat Skiing is certainly one of the most unique ways to downhill ski or snowboard! For those who don’t know, cat skiing is done by taking a snowcat (a large motorized vehicle with tracks for driving through snow) up a mountain before being dropped off in fresh, untouched powder – meters of it!
Tours are run by Cariboo Cat Skiing in Valemount and cost $775 CAD +GST per person. For that, you’ll get around 8 ski runs between 3,050 and 4,575 verticle meters (10,000 and 15,000 verticle feet) on snow as deep as 4 meters (13 feet). They can cater a tour to a beginner all the way up to the pros.
This is one tour that I’d love to do!
17. Drive up 5 Mile Road
Last on my list of things to do in Valemount, BC is a rather unknown activity but one I love. For the best view in Valemount, take a drive up 5 Mile Road and enjoy unobstructed views over the valley below.
The road begins at the Valemount Bike Park and is often used by mountain bikers. However, for sightseers, it’s the best place to get a birds-eye view without hiking!
Where to Stay in Valemount, BC
Valemount doesn’t offer a huge number of accommodation options, however, there is a place for every traveler.
Above I mention two cabins I love, Twin Peaks Resort and Mica Mountain Lodge & Log Cabins. However, if you’re on a budget, there are cheaper places in town. Canadas Best Value Inn is one of the cheapest options around $100 CAD/night but it is very basic and located on the main highway.
If you can spend a little more, the Comfort Inn and Suites is a top choice. Although still on the highway, the hotel offers a swimming pool, modern rooms, indoor golf, and a fitness center. Breakfast here is also complimentary.
If you’re a luxury traveler, I hate to break it to you but there isn’t much. The closest thing is the Aspen which is an entire home for up to 10 people in a beautiful location. This is the perfect place for large groups or families!
Renting a Car in British Columbia
If you’re arriving in British Columbia via plane, then I can’t recommend getting a rental car enough. British Columbia is a large province, and traveling between the best places to visit in BC requires transport. Although you can use public transport on some occasions, this means your trip will not only require more time but more planning.
Car rental in Canada isn’t relatively cheap, but it’s not that expensive either, especially if you get a budget car. The cheapest car with a pick-up and drop-off in different locations is around $100 CAD per day. The price does vary though, depending on the time of year. For car rentals, I use the website Discover Cars. It’s a search engine with lots of deals with good customer service. In fact, I’ve used Discover Cars all over the world, including in Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
Another popular option is to rent a campervan or motorhome (only for the brave in winter). Using Motorhome Republic, you can search hundreds of deals across multiple companies to pick a great vehicle and the cheapest price. Having a motorhome is a stunning way to see Canada and you can often camp for free or very cheap in the most beautiful places imaginable! Read my tips on using Motorhome Republic here before you book!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Valemount is an up-and-coming tourist destination in the Canadian mountains. As you can see from the list above, there is no shortage of amazing things to do in Valemount. In fact, I’d say there’s more than one person can do!
Thanks so much for reading, I hope this guide has made your upcoming trip to Valemount, BC stress-free. If it has, then be sure to check out more of our blogs on Canada such as: