The Best Summer Activities to do on a Budget in Revelstoke

If you don’t know that Revelstoke is a mountain biker Mecca, let me fill you in on this town’s best-kept secret. Revy has world-renowned mountain biking that’s available pretty much right outside your doorstep. You’ve got places to bike cross country, like Macpherson, places to ride downhill, like Boulder, and they range from mellow green runs to the hardcore double blacks. There are two options to get yourself on a bike and up that mountain! The first is to save every sheckle and buy a bike. If you want something high performance, this option may be out of your price range. It can run you hundreds or even thousands, especially when you factor in other gear like pads, and helmet. But one substantial investment means you can reap the benefits all season long and beyond! Plus you can buy a shabbier starter bike to familiar yourself with the sport before committing to a full investment. If however, you don’t have a little nest egg to fall back on, there are bike shops in town to save the day! They will rent out high end, full-suspension bikes for you at a super reasonable cost. Prices and locations vary, so check out websites for up to date pricing and availability. But be warned, this may become the next addiction.

Do you get stoked on water sports? Looking for a hobby that can be leisurely but also go the distance in strength and stamina? Stand up paddle boards have been all the craze in the last several years. Purchasing your own will result in shelling out quite a few dollars; between $500 – $1000 on the low end. An alternative would be to rent one in town that gives you all of the fun and none of the stress. Rentals range from $25 to $60 a day and allow you to try it out without the commitment of a full purchase. And with the inflatable option, they are easy to use, easy to transport and durable like any other! You can literally strap it to your back and be on your way. It doesn’t get much easier than that.

If you are looking for something a little more off the beaten path, head up to what the locals call “Secret Beach.” Located up Highway 23 North, there are no signs for Secret Beach as it is intended to be one of Revelstoke’s best-kept secrets. So without giving an exact address (which is not available), may we suggest taking a drive onto Hwy 23 North. This road provides access to several turn-offs that lead to pristine and secluded areas of Revelstoke Lake. If you do find the one and only Secret Beach, you know you’ve made it when you stumble upon a rope swing, a zip line and a hammock that you can sit back and enjoy the views (use these with caution). On a sunny day, hanging out anywhere near the water is about the most budget-friendly plan you can make! And are you brave enough to take a plunge into the cold glacier water? Especially in those earlier spring and summer months, it will take your breath away, literally.