Last updated on September 25th, 2024 at 11:47 pm
We hadn’t spent much time exploring Revelstoke in the Summer so one sunny weekend we decided to check it out. The Eva Lake hike was high on our list of things to do and it did not disappoint! A fairly easy trail, it makes a great day hike which takes hikers through gorgeous meadows and ends at a stunning lake with a huge mountain as the backdrop.
It’s a popular spot, so you won’t have the trail to yourself but if you head out later in the day it definitely is more peaceful.
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Eva Lake Hike Quick Facts
Distance: 14.2km return
Elevation: 465m change
Best time to hike: We’d recommend completing the Eva Lake hike in July when the wildflowers are in full bloom in the meadows. Note the Eva Lake hike is typically not accessible prior to July due to snow.
No dogs are allowed on the Eva Lake hike or at the Mount Revelstoke summit area.
The Eva Lake Hike
Starting out on the Eva Lake hike from the parking lot, follow the summit trail, a well maintained gravel path which gains some elevation. It’s a busy stretch of trail which gets everyone to the summit area of Mount Revelstoke and the trails and lookouts which are up there.
Once up at the summit area, the Eva Lake hike is signposted and starts along a paved trail which passes a small lake. At the junction at the end of the trail, head right, following the signs for Eva Lake.
The trail loses a little elevation here as it enters the forest but it is mostly a fairly flat trail which winds through the forest and opens up through the meadow sections which would be filled with wildflowers in July. Keep your eyes peeling for peekaboo views of Lake Revelstoke way below.
As the Eva Lake hike continues it starts to open up a little as it skirts around the mountains, crossing rocky run outs. The views are stunning looking out over the mountains in the distance. Eventually you go back into the forest and gain the majority of the elevation for the day. It can be steep in parts but since you are climbing in the trees it is mostly shaded.
The Eva Lake hike continues uphill until you get to a junction for Eva Lake or Miller Lake. Head left for Eva Lake, passing the Jade Lake trail turn off and a small but pretty tarn. The trail cuts through rocky terrain here providing open and beautiful views. A last short climb through the trees and you pop out at Eva Lake.
To complete the Eva Lake hike, you can walk the trail around the lake. Stop for a picnic at one of the many lakeside spots before heading back down the trail the way you came.
It is worth the short side trip to Miller Lake on your way back, it loses a bit of elevation getting down to the lake which has to be regained to get back to the main trail but it is a beautiful lake.
For those feeling strong, you can also continue up to Jade Pass, however this is a steep climb. The views from the pass are incredible though.
Camping At Eva Lake
It is possible to camp at Eva Lake as there is a backcountry campground located mere steps from the lake. With only four tent pads though it can be difficult to grab a spot. Make sure to try and get a reservation ahead of time on the Parks Canada website.
Along with the tent pads, there is a small warden’s cabin from the 1920’s to hide from the weather, an outhouse and bear lockers at the Eva Lake backcountry campground.
We found Eva Lake to be a pretty busy backcountry destination, although it sure was nice to have the place to ourselves once the hikers had left for the day.
Trailhead
The trailhead for the Eva Lake hike is right at the very end of the Meadows In The Sky Parkway in the Mount Revelstoke National Park. There are two small parking areas but it is a busy spot and can fill up quickly, so arrive early and still expect to park on the road.
You will need to stop at the gatehouse near the start of the road, where they will confirm you have your national park pass, if you don’t it is possible to buy one here.
Things You Might Need
Hiking Shoes: This fairly easy to follow trail can be completed in either hiking boots or trail runners depending on your preference.
Day Pack: Bring a bag to carry water and snacks for the day along with extra layers, the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable.
Bear Spray: The Eva Lake hike is in bear country, take bear spray and know how to use it.
Places To Stay
Revelstoke is a town with a number of different accommodation options to suit any and all budgets.
Martha Creek Campground – We spent the night before we did the Eva Lake Hike staying here in a stunning lakeside camping spot on Lake Revelstoke.
Regent Hotel – Located right downtown with an attached bar and restaurant, this is really in the centre of the action.
Basecamp Revelstoke – Outside of town, these suites are perfect for groups or families looking to travel together, with different sized suites which all come with a kitchen.
