A relatively level hike along the Kootenay River through mixed forest to the village of Glade. This trail is used mainly to access all the other trails on this side of the river. Requires a shuttle if go all the way.
Difficulty: B1
Elevation gained: 60m
Distance: 12 km one-way from Park and Pool to Glade
Time: 4-5 hours
Season: Year-round
Map: 82F/5 Castlegar
Drive: Refer to the trailhead descriptions under “Kootenay River Trails”. This assumes a start at the Brilliant Park and Ride (Hwy 3A on the south side of the Brilliant Bridge down the hill from the airport).
Trail: This is a fairly long, sometimes rocky trail that follows the Kootenay River to the village of Glade. It requires a shuttle. Bridges over rushing creeks and the cool forest make this trail a delight even on a very hot day. The trail undulates gaining 100-275m three times as it works across gullies.
From the Park and Ride, cross the highway heading towards the dam and follow signs for Skattebo Reach Trail. The trailhead is on the right with a sign-in kiosk.
This trail first passes the Brilliant Substation and then is used to access Brilliant Overlook (2.3km), Doukhobor Waterline, McPhee Creek and Little McPhee Creek trails. Via the Brilliant Substation, it accesses Dove Hill and the Elk Cut-Off Trails.
Dog and Bike friendly. Biking only for experienced x-country riders
Facilities: Pit toilets at the substation and the McPhee Canyon trailhead, benches
Note to Cyclists. Bike travel on the section of Skattebo Reach from the Park and Pool to the Substation is not recommended. This section is quite steep with some fragile trail surfaces. Starting from the Brilliant Substation and travelling to Glade is recommended. Please be courteous and give right-of-way to foot traffic.
