From September 26th to 30th, ten adults and ten kids, ages 6 to 15, from the Edmonton Section embarked on a late-season adventure to Kokanee Glacier Cabin in Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park. Over five days, the group hiked 5–8 km daily with significant elevation gain, with the kids leading on classic alpine routes, hands-on scrambles, and plenty of mountain exploration through boulderfields, subalpine forests and lakes.
Day 1 – The Hike In
Under clear skies the group arrived at the trailhead, porcupine proofed the vehicles, and set off with kids leading the way. It was a steady climb from Gibson Lake to Kaslo Lake. Everyone settled in to the lovely Kokanee Cabin for five days of exploration, board games, and shared meals around the cabin’s long tables.
Day 2 – Slocan Chief Cabin and Helen Deane Lake
The day’s hike led past the historic Slocan Chief Cabin to Helen Deane Lake. The kids explored the museum inside the old miner’s cabin before the group continued on to Helen Deane, where kids spent the rest of the time clambering over huge rock features at the Lakeshore . The afternoon brought rest, more board games, and a kids’ scavenger hunt back at Kokanee Cabin.
Day 3 – Sapphire Lakes Adventure
The morning brought some pervasive wildfire smoke which the group trekked through before reaching the stunning Sapphire Lakes. As the skies cleared, a few brave swimmers took a dip in the icy turquoise water, while others relaxed and watched the kids play near the waterfalls where the upper lake spills into the lower. It was a highlight of the trip, showcasing the best of alpine travel.
Day 4 – Toe of the Glacier Scramble
The group’s most demanding outing was the hike and scramble to the toe of the Kokanee Glacier, now receded high above the valley floor. The kids tackled the rugged terrain with confidence, climbing over scree, talus, and boulders for a quick visit to the Glacier before returning to the cabin for more exploration around the hut and climbing of the nearby granite blocks.
Day 5 – Rain and Farewell
A steady drizzle and fog marked the final morning as the team hiked back toward Gibson Lake. Along the way, a dramatic rockfall near Kokanee Lake as a low hanging cloud swept through the valley served as a powerful reminder of the dynamic mountain environment. Despite the wet weather, everyone made it to the trailhead safely and in good spirits.
Throughout the trip, the group enjoyed mostly sunny weather, excellent trail conditions, and endless views of alpine meadows, lakes, and peaks. Pikas called from the rocks, and the kids—leading all of the hikes—brought energy and laughter to every trail.
The 2025 Kokanee Glacier Family Trip was a resounding success, blending adventure, teamwork, and discovery for participants of all ages.
1 Comment
Forrest Gainer · November 5, 2025 at 7:30 am
Thanks for the great write up Jonathan. Great trip