Fire Lookout Mount Revelstoke National Park
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Fire Lookout Mount Revelstoke National Park

4.8
·77 reviews·Revelstoke, Canada

Historic fire lookout offering stunning 360° views atop Mount Revelstoke, accessible via a scenic drive and short hike.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

August mornings

Alpine flowers in bloom

CrowdMedium
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Fire Lookout Mount Revelstoke National Park

Fire Lookout Mount Revelstoke National Park

Best Time

August mornings

Alpine flowers in bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic fire lookout offering stunning 360° views atop Mount Revelstoke, accessible via a scenic drive and short hike.

4.8
(77 reviews)

"Spectacular! On top of the world, 360 view and the alpine flowers in August! Gorgeous ❤️"

Vertical photo
TIP

🦟 Pack Bug Spray!

Essential for August visits to ward off mosquitoes and deer flies. Don't let them ruin your views!

🥾 Easy Summit Hike

A short, well-maintained 15-20 minute hike from the parking lot to the lookout. Fairly easy with some elevation.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summit Fire Lookout

Summit Fire Lookout

Mount Revelstoke Summit

Historic 1927 fire lookout offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the Columbia River and surrounding valleys.

Alpine Meadows

Alpine Meadows

Mount Revelstoke Summit

Vibrant alpine flowers bloom in August, adding a splash of color to the already stunning mountain scenery.

First Footsteps Trail

First Footsteps Trail

Near Summit Fire Lookout

An interpretive 10-minute loop detailing Indigenous history, plant uses for food and medicine, and local heritage.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Ascent

The drive up Mount Revelstoke is scenic but can be winding. Consider visiting during daylight hours for the best views and to fully appreciate the alpine meadows. Be prepared for potential weather changes, even in summer.

Bug Protection is Key

If visiting in August, pack bug spray! Mosquitoes and deer flies can be prevalent. Travelers report them being bothersome even inside vehicles, so extra protection is highly recommended for enjoying the trails and views.

Best Times

When
August mornings
Why
Alpine flowers in bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Daylight hours
Why
Best for scenic drive & views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds on trails
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Welcome to my first day back at the fire lookout. I’m so glad to be back. Its even more beautiful than i remember and it doesnt feel real #firelookout #mountains#sunset #dayinmylife #dayinthelife #Vlog
@followmyleap
535.2K likes • 4.5M views

🦟 Pack Bug Spray!

Essential for August visits to ward off mosquitoes and deer flies. Don't let them ruin your views! Reddit

🥾 Easy Summit Hike

A short, well-maintained 15-20 minute hike from the parking lot to the lookout. Fairly easy with some elevation. InstagramReddit

Reintroducing this historic fire lookout located in a 1.5 federally protected wilderness area. Visit wilderness.net to learn more! Follow along as this fire season commences, new adventures begin and we start helping you find jobs like this. #firelookout #firetower #offgrid #over50
@briggygee
151.7K likes • 1.3M views
🗻Summit Trail and Fire Lookout at Mount Revelstoke National Park - Left our vehicle in the uppermost car park and hiked the rest of the way to the summit trail and fire lookout. The trail is an out and back, relatively short and and easy, for the elevation gain and final views. The trail was easy and well kept. 🗻 Rainbow Falls Loop in Whistler - An easy 2.1km loop trail. A quiet and well maintain...
joleia.travels
50 likes • 401 views

📸 Camera Ready

Stunning 360-degree views and historical insights make this a photographer's paradise. TikTokInstagram

📚 History Buffs Rejoice

Read the informative materials about the lookout's history and the First Footsteps Trail. Reddit

Mount Revelstoke National Park offers you the unique experience of being able to drive nearly all the way up to a mountain summit. And just a short 20-25 minute walk from the parking lot will bring you to the Summit Fire Lookout. Built in 1927 this fire lookout is now a recognized federal heritage building. Unlike any other fire lookout I’ve been in before, this one was two story and allowed u...
shannon.adventures
109 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🦟 Pack Bug Spray!

Essential for August visits to ward off mosquitoes and deer flies. Don't let them ruin your views! Reddit

🥾 Easy Summit Hike

A short, well-maintained 15-20 minute hike from the parking lot to the lookout. Fairly easy with some elevation. InstagramReddit

📸 Camera Ready

Stunning 360-degree views and historical insights make this a photographer's paradise. TikTokInstagram

📚 History Buffs Rejoice

Read the informative materials about the lookout's history and the First Footsteps Trail. Reddit

🚗 Scenic Drive

The drive to the summit parking lot offers incredible scenery. Consider the shuttle bus road for different perspectives on the way down. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(77 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Mount Revelstoke Fire Lookout for its absolutely breathtaking 360-degree views and the rewarding, relatively easy hike to reach it. The historical significance of the lookout and the informative First Footsteps Trail are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects. However, a significant drawback mentioned by many is the prevalence of mosquitoes and deer flies, particularly in August, which can detract from the experience if not adequately prepared for.

"It was a long drive up to the top but well worth it. The hike to the Fire Lookout was relatively easy. The views from the top were amazing."

Stuart Wharf

"Spectacular! On top of the world, 360 view and the alpine flowers in August! Gorgeous ❤️"

tracylee wilson

"Before you go up the mountain - Bring bug spray! There were swarms of mosquitoes and worse - deer flies. They kept trying to get us even through the car windows. (Went in August)

From the parking lot, it’s about 15 min to the Fire Lookout. The trail is not flat and has a bit of elevation, but it’s fairly easy to walk. Unfortunately the fire house was locked, but there’s lots of reading material about its history. Stunning 360 degree views from the lookout.

Next to the Fire house is the First Footsteps Trail (10 min loop). It’s an interpretive trail that teaches about how Indigenous people lived in that area, which plants they used for food and medicine. It was very informative.

It took a us an hour to do both trails, read all of the info and take picture. Well worth the time! On the way back to the parkade, take the shuttle bus road for different views."

Jen S

What People Like

Spectacular 360-degree views
Easy, rewarding hike
Historic fire lookout

What People Dislike

Mosquitoes and deer flies (August)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can drive up the scenic Meadows in the Sky Parkway to the upper parking lot. From there, it's a relatively short and easy hike (about 15-20 minutes) to the Summit Fire Lookout. Some visitors also opt to take a shuttle bus from the parking area. InstagramReddit

The drive is winding but well-maintained. It offers spectacular views as you ascend. It's recommended to drive during daylight hours to fully appreciate the scenery. TikTok

Public transport options directly to the park's summit are limited. Driving your own vehicle or joining a tour is the most common way to access the park and its attractions. Instagram

This is the scenic road that winds its way up Mount Revelstoke, offering access to various viewpoints and trailheads, including the one for the Summit Fire Lookout. Instagram

Yes, a shuttle service is often available from the upper parking lot to the summit, providing an alternative to the hike. This can be a good option for those with mobility concerns or who prefer not to walk. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry into Mount Revelstoke National Park. These can be purchased online or at park gates. Reddit

Beyond the park pass, there are typically no additional fees to access the Summit Fire Lookout itself or the surrounding trails. Reddit

The Fire Lookout structure itself may have limited access, with the interior sometimes locked. However, the surrounding trails and viewpoints are generally accessible during park operating hours. Reddit

Access to the summit and the Meadows in the Sky Parkway is seasonal, typically open from late May/early June to mid-October, depending on snow conditions. TikTok

Park passes can be purchased in advance online. There are no specific tickets required for the Fire Lookout itself, as it's part of the national park's accessible areas. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The hike from the upper parking lot to the Summit Fire Lookout is described as relatively short and easy, taking about 15-20 minutes. It has some elevation gain but is generally well-maintained. InstagramReddit

Spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the Columbia River, surrounding valleys, and the Trans-Canada Highway are consistently reported. It's often described as being 'on top of the world.' TikTokReddit

Yes, the First Footsteps Trail is a short, interpretive loop near the lookout that focuses on Indigenous history and plant uses. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Layers are advisable as mountain weather can change quickly. Don't forget bug spray, especially in August! Reddit

While the drive gets you close, the final approach to the lookout involves a hike with some elevation. The shuttle bus option might be more suitable for those with significant mobility challenges. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 360-degree panoramic views are the main draw for photographers. Capture the vastness of the Columbia River valley, the alpine meadows, and the historic fire lookout structure itself. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for landscape shots. However, daylight hours provide the clearest views of the expansive scenery. TikTok

Explore the area around the lookout for different perspectives. The First Footsteps Trail also offers opportunities for nature photography with its interpretive signs and flora. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the sweeping panoramas. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the distant landscape. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards! Instagram

Drone usage in national parks is subject to strict regulations. It's essential to check the Parks Canada website for current drone policies and obtain any necessary permits before flying. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Summit Fire Lookout area offers a fantastic family outing. The short, easy hike to the lookout from the upper parking lot is manageable for most children, and the spectacular 360-degree views are sure to captivate young imaginations. The First Footsteps Trail is a great way to engage kids with history and nature through its interpretive signs. Reddit

Remember to pack plenty of bug spray, especially in August, as mosquitoes and deer flies can be a nuisance. Bringing snacks and water is also a good idea, as amenities at the summit are limited. The scenic drive up the Meadows in the Sky Parkway provides entertainment along the way, with opportunities to stop at various viewpoints. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

For hikers, the Summit Fire Lookout is a rewarding destination accessible via a pleasant, relatively short trail. The well-maintained path offers a moderate challenge with rewarding vistas. Beyond the immediate lookout area, the First Footsteps Trail provides a cultural dimension to the natural exploration. InstagramReddit

Consider exploring other trails within Mount Revelstoke National Park for a more extensive hiking experience. The alpine meadows in August are a highlight for nature photography and observing wildflowers. Always check trail conditions and be prepared for changing mountain weather. TikTok

📸 Photographers

The Summit Fire Lookout is a dream for photographers, offering unobstructed panoramic views that are perfect for landscape shots. The historic fire lookout structure itself provides a compelling foreground element. The alpine meadows in August are a vibrant subject for capturing the beauty of the region. TikTokInstagram

Aim for golden hour for the most dramatic lighting, but daylight hours offer clarity for the vast expanses. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the sweeping vistas. Be mindful of the park's regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to incorporate aerial shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Summit Fire Lookout

The Summit Fire Lookout at Mount Revelstoke National Park is more than just a viewpoint; it's a piece of history. Built in 1927, this structure is a recognized federal heritage building. It served a crucial role in monitoring for forest fires, protecting the vast wilderness of the park. Visitors can read informative materials about its past, offering a glimpse into the lives of fire lookouts and the importance of fire prevention. The lookout's strategic position provides unparalleled 360-degree views, making it a prime spot for appreciating the park's grandeur. InstagramReddit

While the interior of the lookout may sometimes be locked, the surrounding area and the views it offers are fully accessible. The experience of standing at the summit, imagining the solitary watch of past lookouts, adds a unique layer to the visit. It’s a testament to the park’s commitment to preserving its natural and historical assets, allowing visitors to connect with both the landscape and its human history. Reddit

Many visitors find the historical context enhances the appreciation of the stunning scenery. It’s a reminder of the human element intertwined with the wild beauty of the mountains. The lookout is a focal point that draws people to the summit, offering a tangible connection to the park's past while they soak in the present-day vistas. Instagram

Navigating the Meadows in the Sky Parkway

The Meadows in the Sky Parkway is the primary access route to the summit of Mount Revelstoke. This scenic drive is a destination in itself, winding its way up the mountain with numerous pull-offs offering increasingly spectacular views. The road is typically open from late May or early June until mid-October, weather permitting. It’s a gradual ascent, allowing you to acclimatize to the changing elevations and vegetation. Instagram

As you drive higher, you'll transition from dense forests to subalpine meadows, which are particularly beautiful in bloom during August. The parkway leads to the uppermost parking lot, from which the final short hike to the Summit Fire Lookout begins. For those who prefer not to hike the entire distance, or for a different perspective on the return journey, the shuttle bus road offers an alternative route back down. Reddit

Important considerations for the parkway include checking the opening dates as they are weather-dependent. The drive is best enjoyed during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic vistas. Be prepared for cooler temperatures at higher elevations, even during summer months. TikTok

The First Footsteps Trail: A Cultural Journey

Adjacent to the Summit Fire Lookout, the First Footsteps Trail offers a brief but insightful cultural experience. This short, 10-minute interpretive loop is designed to educate visitors about the historical presence and knowledge of Indigenous peoples in the Mount Revelstoke area. It highlights how local First Nations communities utilized the abundant natural resources of the mountains for sustenance and healing. Reddit

The trail features informative signs that detail the traditional uses of various plants for food, medicine, and other purposes. It’s a valuable opportunity to learn about the deep connection Indigenous peoples have with this land, fostering a greater appreciation for the area's ecological and cultural heritage. The trail is easy to navigate and complements the stunning natural scenery with a rich historical narrative. Reddit

This short walk is highly recommended for its educational value. It provides context to the landscape and encourages a more mindful and respectful engagement with the park. Many visitors find it a moving and informative addition to their summit experience, enriching their understanding of the region beyond its visual beauty. Reddit

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