Revelstoke is Badass
Revelstoke is a town located in southeastern British Columbia, Canada. It's situated on the banks of the Columbia River, nestled between the Monashee and Selkirk mountain ranges. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation, it also has a rich history.
Originally inhabited by the indigenous Sinixt people, Revelstoke is deeply rooted in the development of transportation routes through the western Canada. The area became a key point along the Gold Rush Trail during the late 19th century.
Revelstoke was named after Lord Revelstoke, a prominent figure in British finance during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His full name was Edward Charles Baring, 1st Baron Revelstoke. The town of Revelstoke was named in his honor in 1885, during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Lord Revelstoke was a partner in the London banking firm Baring Brothers & Co., which played a serious role in financing the railway project that connected the eastern and western parts of Canada. The completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the 1880s further solidified Revelstoke's importance as a transportation hub.
With the growth of the railway, the town flourished, and later became a center for forestry and hydroelectric industries. In Revelstoke's historic downtown you'll find heritage buildings from its early days, offering a glimpse into its past.
Revelstoke began to emerge as a destination for skiers in the early 2000s with the development of Revelstoke Mountain Resort. The resort is located just outside of town, and officially opened for skiing and snowboarding in December 2007. It quickly gained recognition for its massive vertical descent, varied terrain, and abundant snowfall, attracting skiers and snowboarders from around the world.
With the addition of new lifts, trails, and amenities, the resort has become even more popular over the years. Revelstoke's reputation as a premier ski destination continues to grow, drawing enthusiasts seeking challenging terrain, deep powder, and a more remote mountain experience.
Today, Revelstoke Mountain Resort is known for offering some of the most thrilling and adventurous skiing and snowboarding experiences in North America, contributing significantly to Revelstoke's status as a top-tier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Just this year (2024) Revelstoke Mountain Resort hosted the premier snowboarding competition The Natural Selection Tour. Created by Travis Rice, this prestigious competition showcased top riders navigating the challenging terrain and natural features of the mountain.
Longest Run:
Revelstoke boasts the longest vertical descent of any ski resort in North America. You'll find terrain suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, with over 3,120 acres of skiable terrain and a vertical drop of 5,620 feet. The longest run at Revelstoke Mountain Resort is known as "The Last Spike," which stretches for approximately 9.5 miles (15.4 kilometers) from top to bottom.
Outdoor Recreation:
Aside from skiing and snowboarding, Revelstoke offers a plethora of outdoor activities year-round. In the warmer months, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping, and whitewater rafting amidst the breathtaking mountain scenery. Revelstoke National Park is right nearby, with more outdoor opportunities, including wildlife viewing.
Community and Culture:
Revelstoke has a vibrant community spirit, with various events and festivals held throughout the year to keep folks charged up. The town has a thriving arts scene, with galleries, studios, and theaters showcasing local talent, and its culinary scene continues to gain recognition, with an array of restaurants offering delicious cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
Revelstoke is a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, rich history, and small-town charm. Check it out, and experience an authentic Canadian experience.
