Kootenay Columbia Mountain

Kootenay Columbia Mountain
Rossland, B.C.
June 20, 2025
Distance: 5.1 km (3.2 mi)
Cumulative Elevation Gain: 214 m (702 ft)

Seeking a relaxed hike, Dinah and I decided on Kootenay Columbia Mountain. The region is filled with trails, many of which trace old wagon paths, rail lines, and smuggler’s tracks from the late 1800s when Rossland was a gold mining centre.

From a spacious parking area on the city’s outskirts, we began hiking up a forest path. We opted for a lollipop loop that included traversing the summit ridge. The trail starts by passing beneath Monte Cristo Mountain. We encountered several paths leading up Monte Cristo and could have easily climbed up and down the mountain, but lacking summit views, we weren’t tempted.

At the junction for the summit ridge, we veered right and started a counterclockwise loop. Soon, we reached the partially open summit. So far, the hike felt like a stroll in a city park, and the summit reinforced that feeling. Two benches at the top offered views of Rossland. A few individuals lingered by one of the benches. Beyond the city lay low, unremarkable green hills. There was little to see, so we continued down the ridge, back into the trees.

Up to this point, we had enjoyed pleasant trails, but the path descending the south ridge was slippery, steep and covered with loose rocks. After a bend, the grade eased and the trail became smooth. It would be easier to complete the loop clockwise and ascend the rocky trail. We returned to the loop’s starting point and followed the main trail back.

KML and GPX Tracks

The trailhead

Dame's Rocket, an introduced species, at the trailhead. Dame's Rocket, while resembling phlox, is an introduced species with four petals instead of the five found in true phlox (mouse over for a close-up).