The Selkirk Mountains rise across southeastern British Columbia as the heart of the Columbia Mountains, a range system entirely separate from the Rockies. Deep valleys, dense old-growth forest and one of the heaviest snowfalls in North America give the Selkirks a wilder, quieter feel than their better-known neighbours. Glacier National Park protects the northern section around Rogers Pass, while the southern Selkirks hold alpine ridges, larch basins and the hot-springs towns of the Kootenays.
Why go
The Selkirks reward travellers who like their mountains serious and uncrowded. Summer hikers find high meadows, hanging glaciers and long ridgeline traverses without the tour buses of the national parks to the east. In winter the range’s legendary deep snowpack draws backcountry skiers from around the world. History runs through it too: the Rogers Pass crossing carries the story of the railway surveyors and the stone ruins of the old Glacier House hotel, and a soak in a Kootenay hot spring after a long trail day is a regional institution.
Best time to visit
July through September is generally the hiking season, with snow usually gone from high trails by mid-July and larches turning gold in late September. Winter, roughly December to March, is prime time for skiing, though avalanche conditions demand real expertise. October and the spring shoulder months bring mud, rain or lingering snow. Weather systems roll in fast from the Pacific, so any season can deliver a cold snap.
Getting around
The Trans-Canada Highway crosses the range at Rogers Pass, straight through Glacier National Park, connecting the gateway towns of Revelstoke and Golden. Beyond the highway corridor you will generally need a car: trailheads, hot springs and backcountry lodges sit down long forest roads. Public transport into the park is very limited, so most visitors self-drive. In winter, carry chains or winter tyres and check highway conditions, as the pass can close during avalanche control.
Good to know
- This is prime bear country. Carry bear spray, make noise on the trail and store food and scented items securely at camp.
- Weather changes quickly and snow can linger on high passes into July. Check current trail conditions before setting out.
- Cell coverage is patchy or absent across much of the range. Carry a map and tell someone your plans.
- Mosquitoes and black flies can be intense in early summer, especially near lakes and in the valleys. Bring repellent and a head net.
- Glacier National Park has no towns or fuel inside its boundaries. Fill up and stock food in Revelstoke or Golden.
The Selkirks are Canada’s mountains for people who prefer wilderness to viewpoints: come for the deep snow and high ridges, and respect the weather that makes them.