Ride High. Ride Low. Ride Longer.
From the legendary IMBA Epic Seven Summits trail and RED Mountain Bike Park lift-accessed trails to flowy descents, technical singletrack, scenic cross-country loops and family-friendly trails, the South Kootenay region offers something for every rider and every skill level. Rossland’s 200+km trail network is complemented by the lower-elevation riding in Trail and Fruitvale, where warmer temperatures extend the riding season.
When Rossland’s trails are still under snow, the networks in Trail and Fruitvale give riders the opportunity to start their season early and keep it going well into the fall. Whether you’re chasing berms, rock slabs, big mountain adventures or smooth singletrack through the forest, you’ll find an incredible diversity of trails—all within minutes of each other.
More elevation, more options.
Ride in Rossland
Rossland is home to an extensive trail network, with everything from mellow cruisers and playful flow to old-school tech, big climbs and all-day epics. The crown jewel is the Seven Summits, an IMBA Epic that traverses the Rossland Range, but you don’t have to commit to an all-day adventure to find great riding. Many trails start right from town, and Green Door connects you to nearby Warfield, while Louis Joe leads towards Redstone Golf Course and the historic Wagon Road. With historic routes woven throughout the network and trails like Kootenay Columbia & Whiskey on the Rocks delivering big views alongside the riding, there’s plenty to explore before you even add in the lift-accessed flow, technical terrain, jumps and berms at the RED Mountain Bike Park.
The Bluffs in Trail
Just minutes from downtown Trail, the Bluffs deliver a little bit of everything—and often long before the higher-elevation trails are ready to ride. This network is one of the first areas to dry out in the Spring, making it a go-to for early and late-season riding. Start with easier, mellow options like Miral Heights and the Aspen Loop, then work your way up to the flowy Bluffs Loop and Sunningdale, where exposed rock benches and big views over the Columbia River add plenty of wow factor to your ride! Rusty Chainsaw brings steeper terrain, technical moves and plenty of rock to the mix. With roughly 16 km of trails weaving across the Bluffs, you can build your ride around your ability or take it to the next level.
Barclay Creek in Fruitvale
Tucked into the Beaver Valley, Fruitvale’s Barclay Creek trail is all about fun, flow and progression. Purpose-built singletrack winds through the forest with smooth berms, playful rollers, a gentle climb and a fast descent If you choose)! When the ride is over, keep the adventure going with a short drive to Champion Lakes Provincial Park, where you can cool off with a swim, cast a line, paddle the lake or settle in for a night of camping surrounded by the beauty of the Kootenays.
Keep on Rolling
If you’re looking to explore the South Kootenay region and beyond, consider planning the ultimate Kootenay road trip.
Kootenay Dirt is your mountain biking guide to the Kootenays. It connects riders with detailed trail information, curated itineraries, local riding tips, events, travel packages and insider recommendations from the people who know these trails best. Discover new destinations, hidden gems and endless singletrack as you plan your next adventure. You will be sure to discover your next favourite ride!
FAQs
The best time for mountain biking is generally from July to September, as this is when the peak season is. However, you may be able to start riding earlier, with lower-elevation and south-facing trails opening as early as April.
The IMBA Epic Seven Summits trail in Rossland is best ridden from July to early October.
The Red Mountain Bike Park is open from late June to September.
When Does the Trail Open?
July to early October is the best time to ride the Seven Summits. Due to its high elevation, it is recommended to check the weather and trail reports before heading out. The trail is remote, with no water available and large sections of no cell phone coverage. Riders are expected to be completely self-sufficient and prepared for quick changes in mountain weather.
How Difficult it the Trail?
Rated as a black diamond trail due to it’s length (spanning 30.4km or 36km when combined with the Dewdney trail) and varying terrain, ensure you are an intermediate to advanced rider – this trail is not suitable for beginners. It’s demanding, with 1,035m of vertical gain and a high point of 2,194m – physical and mental endurance is essential, as is a decent level of cardiovascular fitness. It takes an average Joe six hours or more to complete. Make sure you are prepared with snacks, extra clothing, lots of water, a first aid kit, bike repair kit (a spare inner tube for sure) and bear spray.
Where is the Trailhead?
The Seven Summits Trail is intended to be ridden from north to south and to link with the Dewdney trail. Leave a vehicle at the bottom of the Dewdney trail on Hwy 22, near the US Border in Paterson (12 km South of Rossland) and arrange a shuttle to Highway 3B to the Nancy Green Summit/Strawberry Pass trailhead (or drive an additional car to the top). The trail begins immediately behind the trailhead kiosk at the Pass.
Are E-Bikes Allowed?
Unfortunately e-bikes are not permitted on the Seven Summits Trail as they are banned by local regulations, due to safety concerns, potential for increased erosion, and the risk of inexperienced riders getting injured.
Ride with Remy
Yes, it is strongly recommended that you carry bear spray and know how to use it when biking in the area. Mountain bikers move quickly and quietly, increasing the chance of surprising a bear (both black and grizzly bears are found in the region), which is the primary cause of defensive bear encounters.
Yes! Kootenay Mountain Biking is your one stop shop for all of the above.
If you are planning an extended stay in Rossland, reach out to the Mountain Ravens – a women’s focused group ride club (proudly embracing individuals no matter where they fall on the gender spectrum) for all ability levels riding on Wednesdays.
Revolution Cycles offers group rides every Thursday. Follow @revolutionrossland for more details.
Rentals
Revolution Cycles & Service in downtown Rossland offers high‑quality bike rentals tailored to your needs. Whether you are looking for a Mountain Bike or want to rip the trails on an E-Bike, Revolution has options. Note: their rental fleet is meant for trail use and not for full gravity‑bike park laps.
At the base of Red Mountain Resort, there is a full bike rental shop inside their day lodge for riders who are ready to rip at the bike park. Their rental shop also supports the resort’s bike‑school and lesson programs, making it easy to step right into high‑adrenaline riding.
Whether you’re aiming for mellow trail laps or full‑on bike‑park action, one of these spots will get you geared up and ready to ride.
Gear
Forgot a helmet, need a spare tire, or just want to shop for fresh gear? Known as West Kootenay’s one stop bike shop Gerick Sport in Trail has got you covered. Or head downtown Rossland where you’ll find two standout stores ready to hook you up. Revolution Cycles & Service, is Rossland’s year‑round bike shop—fully stocked with parts, accessories, stylish apparel, and expert help. Just a few doors down, Rossland Outdoor offers a broad selection of mountain‑town gear—everything from technical outdoor wear to biking essentials when you want to upgrade your kit.
Staying up at RED? Piste Off Supply Co. has everything you need – or forgot!
Kootenay Columbia Trail Society
Love our trails and want to support growth and sustainability for future riders? The Kootenay Columbia Trail Society keeps our trails epic, safe, and ready for adventure. From smooth cruisers to gnarly climbs, they build and maintain it all. Help keep the trails ready to ride and consider donating your time, skills or $ by getting in touch here.
