The Big Eddy Bluff Trail is a local gem and we want to keep it that way. Before diving too much into the trail and what it’s all about we just want to remind you to be mindful and take care of the trail you’re hiking on as it is only maintained by local volunteers.
Big Eddy Bluff is a more local and hidden trail and can’t handle the masses since it’s not an official trail and is only maintained locally.
Yes, we’re sharing it on the internet but only people who are searching for this specific hike will find it.
The people like you and us who find it will also be informed about how to take care of the trail and hike on it responsibly.
If we can all do our part and keep the trail in awesome shape it will go a long way in preserving this gem in Revy! We do believe in travelling sustainably and doing our part and that’s why we have a full guide on how to visit Revelstoke in a sustainable way.
The trai itself is an easy hike in Revy that will give you a panoramic view of the town, river zig-zagging through, and all the surrounding mountains.
Once you get to Revelstoke you will notice there are tons of hikes and fun outdoor activities to do.
From easy short and sweet hikes like the Big Eddy Bluff Trail and Sutherland Falls to the extreme 30 km hikes like the one to the summit of Mt Cartier and back (which we hope to do one day).
Practical information about Big Eddy Bluff Trail
Distance: 2.9 km return / 1.8 miles return
Elevation: 161 meters / 528 ft. elevation gain
Type: Out and back
Length: 1 hour return (not including breaks)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Alternative name: Boulder Mountain Lookout
Here’s a map of the beginning of the trail
Everything you need to know about Big Eddy Bluff Traill
This was actually the first hike we did in Revelstoke a few days after moving to this awesome town. Every time we had friends come visit we brought them up Big Eddy Bluff to show them the amazing views.
There is literally no better hike to show the beauty of Revy and its surroundings then this one.
It’s a great trail because the views from the top are absolutely magical and the hike itself isn’t that difficult. We’d recommend it to absolutely anyone thinking of coming to or passing by Revelstoke.
Plus it’s only 3 km return and 160 meter elevation gain so it’s manageable for most people.
It’s the perfect afternoon activity. Even if you’re just passing by Revelstoke the trail is only 5 minutes off the highway so you can make a quick stop, hike up Big Eddy Bluff or Begbie Falls, and be on your way to your next destination.
If you only have time for just a quick hike to an epic viewpoint we recommend this one. Otherwise, we have some great longer hikes to recommend around Revelstoke as well.
Check out all the hikes around Revelstoke here.
Here’s a picture of the beginning of Big Eddy Bluff
Like we mentioned the hike is only a few minutes from downtown Revelstoke and is actually right off Highway 1. You will turn North onto Westside Road and park your car right before Jordan River.
The parking spot is quite obvious because it’s right before the bridge that crosses Jordan River. You will most likely see other cars parked there as well.
If you end up passing the bridge you’ve gone too far. There aren’t designated parking spots but if you pull off to the side of the road you should be able to park behind another car.
Starting the Big Eddy Bluff Trail
Once you park you can follow the trail on the west side of the road. (facing the bridge, the hike starts just to the left of it.) The trail itself is very easy to find as you will see some ladders in the mud and a nice walked-on path.
After a few minutes you will come across the wall. It’s a very small wall with a few ropes that you can “climb” on. Jo and I are not climbers, and Jo is afraid of heights… If we could do it, so can you!
Once you get past the wall it’s basically a straight shot up to the viewpoint. You will just continue along the trail through the trees for about 15-20 minutes until you reach the top.
The trail is well marked and there aren’t really any other paths so it should be easy for you to follow.
Once you get to the viewpoint (top of the hike) there is plenty of room to sit and enjoy the views of Revelstoke. You’ll see why we always bring our friends.
You have the beautiful Columbia River right below and Mt Cartier far into the distance. In between, you might get a train passing by and birds chirping in the trees around you, which is the true beauty of this small tucked-away mountain town in BC.
Hiking Tip: Look up the trail on AllTrails before starting your hike 🗺️. You can find important trail information such as recent wildlife sights and trail closures. Check out the free version here or get a 7-day free trial of AllTrails+ here.
How to get to the trailhead
From Revelstoke
You could walk there from downtown if you’re up for it, but we would usually drive there…
- It would probably only take about 30 minutes from downtown to walk but we drove and it took about 5 minutes…
- Directions can be found here.
Before you hike the Big Eddy Bluff Trail
It doesn’t hurt to check the local bear warnings in the area. Especially since Revelstoke is known for having bears wandering around the city and the local parks.
You can check out this site for any warnings and closures. But if you come prepared and you bring bear spray you should (hopefully 😉 ) be ok.
You can check the Revelstoke weather forecast to make sure the conditions are ok.
We went in May and June and the conditions were great. All we got was a bit of mud. Since the elevation gain isn’t too high you should be fine to go between May and October without running into any snow.
The hike is rather short and easy so there isn’t really anything else you need to worry about. Make sure to not forget your camera or phone to take some epic pictures up at the top.
Leave no trace
When you go hiking (and do other outdoor adventure activities), always remember to follow the 7 principles of leaving no trace.
This means:
- Plan ahead and prepare.
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
- Dispose of waste properly.
- Leave what you find.
- Minimize campfire impacts.
- Respect wildlife.
- Be considerate of others.
Also read: A Sustainable Guide to Visiting Revelstoke, BC
What to bring on the Big Eddy Bluff trail
It is a shorter hike so you don’t need to bring too much with you. We just brought a few “pops” with us to enjoy at the top and bear spray. You know, just to be safe. Otherwise, there isn’t too much you need.
Packing list for Big Eddy Bluff Trail
- Water – and maybe a pop or beer to enjoy at the top.
- A few snacks or lunch.
- Bear spray (and know how to use it)
- Hiking shoes are good for this hike (since it gets quite muddy).
You may also like…
- 6 Must Do Hikes in Revelstoke
- 5 Gorgeous Spots for Camping in Revelstoke
- Echo Lake – Camping and Hiking near Revelstoke
- 6 Stunning Mountain View Hotels in Revelstoke
- McKenzie Outpost – Hiking up Revelstoke Mountain Resort
Recap of hiking the Big Eddy Bluff trail
We hope you enjoy this local gem as much as we do. Please remember it’s a local trail that’s only maintained by locals so do your best to take care of this precious local gem!
Practicing the 7 principles of leave no trace and staying on the trail. That way people can continue to enjoy the trail for years to come!
If you have any questions about Revelstoke feel free to DM us on Instagram on leave a comment below and we’ll get back to you!
We will continue to share amazing spots to camp in Revelstoke and hike near Revelstoke so stay tuned for some more local hikes in the area right here.
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This hike looks amazing! The views from the top look perfect, no wonder you take all your friends up there. We will be adding this to our list that’s for sure. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Hey Candace,
Absolutely, the views are so epic and you get amazing views for such an easy hike! A must next time you’re passing by Revelstoke!
-Dom