Floe Lake is a beautiful back-country campground located in Kootenay National Park. The stunning mountains, clear blue alpine lake, and meadows full of wildflowers make it one of my personal favorites in all of Canada! This backpackers paradise is part of the Rockwall Trail and accessible from the trailhead on Highway 93. Keep reading for everything you need to know about this phenomenal back country hike!
Getting There
Floe Lake is located 10.7 kilometres South West of the Floe Lake parking lot on highway 93. It starts off with a few beautiful river crossings and a short section of switchbacks before leveling out. From here, the majority of the hike is relatively flat while you make your way to the end of the valley.
This hike is incredibly unique because of a massive wildfire that swept through the entire valley in 2003. What that means for you is that you`ll get a wide open view of the area as you hike through the wildflowers, burnt trees, and the new forest growth.
You gain almost all of the 959 meters of elevation in the last few kilometres. At the end of the valley, you will begin climbing numerous steep switchbacks along a beautiful waterfall fed by Floe Lake. Don`t worry, your efforts will be more than rewarded when you get to the top!
Floe Lake Campground
Floe Lake Campground has 18 tent sites and a wardens cabin. We really enjoyed the layout because the sites are spread out in clusters along a path leading up from the lake. HINT: If the first tent pad is available… grab it! It boasts the best view in the entire campground, by far!
There are numerous little beach areas that are perfect for grabbing fresh water. There are also two sets of bear lockers and two separate picnic table areas so you should always be able to find a place to eat! Two outhouses are located within the campsite, but be sure to bring your own toilet paper.
The Rockwall Trail
The trail into Floe Lake is part of the multi day Rockwall Trail. This 59 kilometre hike can be done South to North, starting at the Floe Lake trailhead and finishing at the Paint Pots or vice and versa. The trail includes several waterfalls, creeks, glaciers, alpine lakes and the famous Rockwall. For more information on the Rockwall Trail, click here!
Tips
- Book early! You can book online at the Canada Parks Website starting in late January.
- Don’t forget the mosquito repellent!
- Stay a minimum of 2 nights so you have time to explore the beautiful trails that surround Floe Lake.
- Check out our Backcountry Gear list for back country packing tips
We hope you enjoy your time hiking in Kootenay National Park! Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comment below with your experience, we`d love to hear from you!
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Lisa
Do you know of any back country hiking/overnight camping allow camp fires?
David & Cayleigh
You’ll have to look on the Canada Parks website for more information on this but majority of backcountry campgrounds do not allow campfires.