Seven Summits didn’t earn the title of Bike Mag’s 2007 “Trail of the Year” for no reason.
Designated an EPIC by the International Mountain Bicycling Association, the black diamond rated all-mountain trail is a 36km point to point adventure with over 1000m of lung busting climbing.
But the juice is most certainly worth the squeeze.
The Seven Summits rewards riders with spectacular 360-degree views of the Monashee range, alpine meadows, and swooping singletrack descents. Truly an epic adventure!
“If you enjoy all mountain riding and long days in the saddle, you should definitely put the Seven Summits trail on your bucket list. Technically and physically challenging, there’s a reason why the Seven Summits trail is an IMBA Epic ride. The many uphill switchbacks put you in the pain cave at the start of the trail, but the wide open views and fun, flowy downhill are well worth the effort. With lots of water and snacks, sunscreen, and easy gearing, the Seven Summits trail will be a blast! – Sarah M., Marketing Supervisor
Tips from the Kootenay Columbia Trail Society:
Open in July each year once alpine snows have melted, the trail starts at the trailhead at the Nancy Greene Summit off of Hwy 3B and travels south towards Rossland, ending at the bottom of the Dewdney Trail off of Highway 22.
Adventurous riders (or masochists) can ride the full loop from Rossland, but most leave a vehicle at the Dewdney Trailhead to return back to town for a much-deserved brew.
The trail is remote and with no water access, so riders should be prepared with enough food and water, and clothing for sudden high-country weather changes. Cell phone coverage is not consistent.
While you’re there:
- Get great coffee, food & snacks at the Alpine Grind Café on Columbia Ave
- Suds from the Rossland Beer Company
- Satisfy your sweet tooth with home made chocolates and ice cream from the Mountain Nugget Chocolate Company
- More suggestions at tourismrossland.com
Learn more about the Seven Summits on the website of the Kootenay Columbia Trails Society (the group which built and maintains the trails), and also find lots of great resources, trail reports, and photos on trailforks.com.
‘Staff Rides’ showcases great trails, urban pathways, and road riding from all over Canada and loved by our staff. Get on your bike and have some fun!