Mount Stevens

Overview

Mount Stevens is located in the southeastern corner of British Columbia, near the historic site of Fort Steele and the present day communities of Cranbrook, Kimberley, Wasa, and Skookumchuck. It is part of the Hughes Range of the Rocky Mountain Chain and overlooks the Kootenay River Valley/Southern Rocky Mountain Trench which divides the Rockies from the Purcell Mountains.

Mount Stevens is most commonly summited by people who are traversing over it on their way to Teepee Mountain, which is approximately another kilometre (0.6 miles) north from Stevens. The summit of Mount Stevens is a perfect place to stop and have lunch on one's way to Teepee.

Teepee Mountain and Mount Stevens are the highest peaks overlooking Wasa Lake and lie about 10km (6 miles) directly west of Top of the World Provincial Park. They are also just west of the head of Diorite Creek.

Mount Stevens and Teepee Mountain are often overlooked due to the popularity and visibility of Mount Fisher (better known as Fisher Peak by the locals) in the area. This is unfortunate, as this two summit day is certainly full of its own beauty and incredible views – especially into the endless sea of Rocky Mountain peaks to the east. For those wanting to summit Mount Fisher, Teepee Mountain (via Mount Stevens) can be an ideal warm up day for that next outing. The way up Stevens and Teepee is much easier (it is a hike the entire way) and in the end, Teepee mountain is only approximately 50m (165 feet) lower than Mount Fisher.

Although the hike up Mount Stevens and Teepee Mountain is certainly easier than the hike and scramble up Mount Fisher, it is still a fairly long and gruelling uphill slog to get there. The trail is in excellent condition, but does little in the way of switchbacks. For the most part, it relentlessly makes its way upwards through the forest of Douglas fir and the Canadian bunchberry found on this forest's floor. Make sure to take lots of water, as none will be found along the way.

Mount Stevens was given its name in 1960. It is named after Charlie Stevens, a renowned packer and guide who moved into the area in the 1890's. It was here that he remained and mostly continued to call home until his death in 1955.

Getting There

From Highway 93/95, turn east onto the southern end of the Wasa Lake Park Drive loop. Drive 0.4km (0.25 miles) and turn right (southeast) onto Lazy Lake Road. From here, drive 10 km (6.2 miles) and turn right (east) onto Lewis Creek Road. If you see Lazy Lake, you have gone too far. From the turnoff onto Lewis Creek Road, follow the switchbacks upwards for about 5.2km (3.2 miles) until you get to a left turnoff signed "BR A". Park here - the trailhead is about 50m up this road and is marked clearly with a “Mt. Stevens Trail” sign.


Route Description


Map of Area

Red Tape

None.

When to Climb

The best season for climbing Mount Stevens is late June through September.

Camping & Lodging

There are many options for places to stay in the area of Mount Stevens and Teepee Mountain. The closest are the campsites in Wasa Lake Provincial Park. Premier Lake Provincial Park is close by as well. Nearby towns include Cranbrook, Kimberley, and Marysville. All have several options for accomodations.

Wasa Lake Campsite Reservations

Premier Lake Campsite Reservations

Other local campgrounds

Fort Steel Resort and RV Park (Camping, cabins, B&B, RV camping)

Kimberley Riverside Campground

Sheep Heaven Farm B&B

Mountain Conditions

Be prepared for weather conditions which can change quickly in the mountains. Wind may also be considerable on the higher parts of the mountain.


Cranbrook Visitor Information: 250-489-5261

Kimberley Visitor Information: 250-427-4838

Environment Canada Weather Forecast

External Links

Geology of the Hughes Range

Columbia Valley Information

Wasa Lake Provincial Park

Images

View Mount Stevens Image Gallery - 8 Images