Experience a 10 km guided hike through British Columbia’s Purcell Mountains with Playwest Mountain Experiences. Enjoy alpine meadows, glaciated views, and a homemade lunch in the wild.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Good fitness recommended; comfortable with sustained uphill hiking and uneven terrain
Wildlife
History
The Purcell Mountains hold significance for local indigenous communities, who have long inhabited and traversed these lands.
Conservation
Playwest emphasizes low-impact guiding practices and educates guests on protecting fragile alpine environments.
Playwest Mountain Experiences
Experience a 10 km guided hike through British Columbia’s Purcell Mountains with Playwest Mountain Experiences. Enjoy alpine meadows, glaciated views, and a homemade lunch in the wild.
Playwest Mountain Experiences is a guided outdoor company based in Invermere, British Columbia, offering a range of day hikes, multi-day trips, skills courses, and seasonal experiences across the Purcell Mountains and Kootenay National Park. Guided programming includes recreational hikes like Glacier View and The Lookout, seasonal highlights such as Chasing Golden Larch and Mountain Sunsets & Savoury Fondue, and skill-focused offerings including Avalanche Skills Training - 1 (AST-1) in partnership with Avalanche Canada and the Companion Rescue Refresher.
Trips are designed for small groups and emphasize safety, trip planning, and practical skills. Backpacking for Beginners - Ladies Edition provides a pre-trip information session and hands-on instruction covering gear, navigation, trip planning, and Leave No Trace principles. The 2 Nighter features on-trail meals and guided exploration of glaciers, alpine lakes, and backcountry terrain. Short family-friendly options, such as Wild Wetlands Adventure, focus on local ecosystems and wildlife viewing along the Columbia River bluffs.
Playwest Mountain Experiences lists courses and guided hikes with clear trip summaries and logistical planning to help participants prepare for each outing. The company’s programming spans introductory movement skills and moderate full-day treks, aiming to combine outdoor education with exploratory experiences in the Columbia Valley. All descriptions and course formats reflect the trip information and partnerships provided for each offering.
Base Location
Invermere, BC
Located in the Columbia Valley
Trails & Parks
Purcell Mountains
Operating near Kootenay National Park
Group Style
Small groups
Personalized guiding and safety
AST-1 Partner
Avalanche Canada
Certified avalanche training partner
Reserve a hike, course, or seasonal experience in Invermere — view trip details and availability before you go.
Wear sturdy hiking boots
The trail can be wet and rocky, especially early season; good boots ensure grip and foot protection.
Bring at least 1.5 liters of water
Proper hydration is key on this moderate 10 km hike with elevation gain.
Use sunscreen and sunglasses
The alpine sections offer little shade and strong UV exposure, so protect your skin and eyes.
Prepare for variable mountain weather
Layered clothing helps you adjust to cool alpine breezes and sunny breaks during the day.
Hiking boots
Supportive and waterproof boots protect your feet on wet and rocky trails.
spring|summer|fall
Layered clothing
Allows quick adjustment to fluctuating mountain temperatures.
spring|summer|fall
Water bottle or hydration system
Stay hydrated through this full-day activity.
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Protect against UV exposure in open alpine terrain.
spring|summer|fall