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Guided Hikes in invermere and area

Nestled in the Columbia Valley between the towering Rocky Mountains and the Purcell Mountain Range, Invermere is a gateway to some of the most stunning - and overlooked - hiking terrain in British Columbia. The vibrant area offers something for everyone.

Lake on Jumbo Pass Hike trail

Playwest hikes in invermere

Our locally guided hikes in the Invermere area uncover trails that even seasoned hikers might miss. Wander through larch forests that glow gold in the fall, dip your toes in crystal-clear mountain streams, or summit peaks with 360° mountain views.

We offer custom day hikes for individuals, families, and private groups, all tailored to your pace and goals. Our guided hikes explore the area’s most spectacular terrain, including Lake of the Hanging Glacier, Mt. Swansea, Jumbo Pass, Pedley Pass and many others.

If you're feeling more adventurous, join us for a multi-day backpacking adventure and fully immerse yourself into connection with nature and an intimate group of hiking friends.

Come see what makes this corner of BC so special, where every step offers a fresh perspective and a deeper connection to the land.

Invermere and Area

Half DAy HIking Tours

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The Lookout

Trip Type:

Half-Day Hike

Hiking Time:

Up to 4-hours

Distance:

6 kms

Difficulty:

Easy to Moderate

Starting at

$119/adult, $89/youth (12-18)

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Summits, Sunsets & Fondue

Trip Type:

Half-Day Hike

Hiking Time:

3-4 hours

Distance:

2 kms

Difficulty:

Moderate

Starting at

$149/person

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Wild Wetlands

Trip Type:

Half-Day Hike

Hiking Time:

4 hours

Distance:

6 kms

Difficulty:

Easy

Starting at

$119/adult, $89/youth (5-18)

Invermere and Area

Full DAy HIking Tours

Hiker on Jumbo Pass hike

The Pass

Trip Type:

Full-Day Hike

Hiking Time

Up to 6 hours of hiking

Distance:

10 kms

Difficulty:

Moderate to Intermediate

Starting at

$149/adult, $119/youth (12-18)

Hiking Pedley Pass

Meadows to Mountaintops

Trip Type:

Full-Day Hike

Hiking Time

5-6 hours

Distance:

Up to 12 kms

Difficulty:

Moderate/Intermediate

Starting at

$149/adult, $119/youth (12-18)

Turquoise mountain lake below mountain peaks

Signature Day Hike

Trip Type:

Full-Day Hike

Hiking Time

Up to 6 hours of hiking

Distance:

8-12 kms

Difficulty:

Moderate to Intermediate

Starting at

$149/adult, $119/youth (12-18)

Invermere and Area

Guided Backpacking Tours

Group of hikers at viewpoint in Purcell Mountains.

Purcell Mountain Expedition

Trip Type:

Multi-Day Hike

Hiking Time:

3-nights, 4-days

Distance:

30 kms

Difficulty:

Challenging

Starting at

$1499/person

Sunrise on the guided Bugaboos hike

The Bugaboo Mountains

Trip Type:

Multi-Day Hike

Hiking Time:

2-Nights, 3-Days

Distance:

10+kms

Difficulty:

Moderate to Challenging

Starting at

$999/person

Hiker in front of lakes and mountain peaks

Purcell Mountain Traverse

Trip Type:

Multi-Day Hike

Hiking Time:

4 Nights, 5 Days

Distance:

30 kms

Difficulty:

Challenging

Starting at

$1599/person

Hikers walking along the turquoise water of Welsh Lakes.

First Steps: Backpacking for Beginners

Trip Type:

Multi-Day Hike

Hiking Time:

2 days, 1 night

Distance:

8-10 kms/day

Difficulty:

Moderate

Starting at

$399 per person

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What the Playwest Adventurers Say

Testimonials

Rated 5 stars on Google

Chris led us through some stunning hikes around the Invermere area. I really appreciated all of the guidance and tips on how to navigate more challenging terrain, including steep slopes and icy paths. Chris is extremely knowledgeable about the area and its geology, flora and fauna, so we learned a lot on each hike. He is a fabulous guide and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Playwest!


Michelle K

Google - 5 Stars

Chris guided us on our Sunsets & Fondue experience on Mt. Sansea. It exceeded our expectations!!!!! We met Chris at the lower parking lot & he drove us up to the upper lot in his Yukon--somewhat bumpy at times but still comfortable. He expertly shared hiking strategies & encouragement for steep sections going up & coming down with headlamps in the dark--2 78 year olds & a 64 year old with vision limitations. The sunset & the fondue was spectacular. We toasted 56 years of marriage!! Thanks, Chris for your expertise & hospitality. Excellent fondue!!


Marilyn W

Google - 5 Stars

In August we completed a 4 day backpacking trip with Chris, North of Invermere in the Purcell Mountains. It was an incredible experience. Having Chris as our guide allowed us to completely focus on the beauty around us and enjoy the experience. The food was great! Locally sourced, fresh, healthy and filling! (The charcuterie he packed was to die for!) He changed my mind about only using dehydrated meals while backpacking. We rented a tent, sleeping pad and bag from Chris. All of the gear he provided was high quality and in great shape. He was attentive to each group member’s needs throughout the hike and an awesome ambassador of the outdoors, educating us on different flora, fauna and the mountains while we hiked. Overall it was an unforgettable experience thanks to Chris and Playwest.


Stewart H

Google - 5 Starts

Hikers on the trail in Kootenay National Park

A hiking experience you won’t forget

Why choose us?

Top-Ranked Hiking Guide in Invermere

Hikers have spoken! We only have 5-star reviews on Google and TripAdvisor. Check it out for yourself and see what other's are saying.

Local Hiking Experts

The Canadian Rockies and Purcell Mountains are our backyard, they are our home. We've been exploring this area for decades and know all of the peaks, valleys and the best waterfalls.

Professional Outdoor Guides

All of our guides are members of several professional associations, the most notable being the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG). They aim to inspire and educate our guests in a fun and safe environment, learning about our surroundings through story telling and the odd bad joke.

All-Inclusive Guided Hikes

You're on a hiking vacation, so won't have to lift a finger...but you will need to lift a foot. We handle the transportation, hiking permits, freshly packed lunches and you can even use gear from our fleet (for free), if you need it.

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Things to know about

Hiking in Invermere and Area

Nestled between the Canadian Rockies and the Purcell Mountains, Invermere is a hub for outdoor adventure and home to some of the most scenic hikes in British Columbia. Whether you’re after a gentle forest walk or a full-on alpine adventure, here’s what you should know before hitting the trails:

  • From family-friendly lake loops to high-elevation ridge walks, hiking around Invermere offers incredible variety. Playwest offers options for popular nearby spots including the Bugaboos, Welsh Lakes, Lake of the Hanging Glacier, and Mount Swansea. Expect everything from wildflower meadows to glacier-fed waterfalls.

  • The region is prime habitat for black bears and grizzlies. In our safety briefing, we will teach you how to carry bear spray, how to use it, and we always travel in groups. Follow Leave No Trace practices to keep wildlife wild.

  • Mountain weather is unpredictable. Even in summer, you might encounter sudden storms or chilly winds. Dress in layers, bring a rain shell, and always pack the essentials. Don't worry, we'll help you with a hiking packing list depending on which adventure you take. 

  • Some trailheads are remote or require travel on rough forest service roads. A high-clearance vehicle is helpful for accessing backcountry hikes. In the transport that is provided by Playwest, you can expect smooth sailing to the trailhead...well, as smooth as access roads can be! 

  • Invermere is surrounded by fragile alpine ecosystems and Indigenous lands. Stay on designated trails, pack out all garbage, and be mindful of your impact.

Want to go hiking somewhere else?

Choose another Destination

West Coast Trail

A bucket-list adventure for backpackers, the West Coast Trail delivers miles of raw coastal wilderness. With tide-swept beaches, old-growth forest, and suspension bridges, our guided expeditions ensure a safe and unforgettable journey along BC’s wild Pacific shore.

Canadian Rockies

Home to towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and legendary trails, the Canadian Rockies are a dream destination for hikers of all levels. Explore classic routes or hidden gems in Banff and Yoho National Parks with our expert guides.

Kootenay National Park

Less crowded but just as stunning, Kootenay National Park offers dramatic canyons, stunning waterfalls, alpine ridges, and lush valleys. Our guided hikes reveal the park’s unique geology, rich wildlife, and peaceful backcountry trails.

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