Pros & cons
PROS
- Interpretive panels highlight Secwépemc medicinal plants and local ecology
- High odds of spotting Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep in their restored range
- Walk through a rare dry Douglas‑fir and bunchgrass ecosystem actively managed with fire
CONS
- Very exposed with little shade; summer heat can feel harsh
- Occasional closures for prescribed burns or when sheep are present
- In the off‑season, road access may be closed, requiring a walk or bike to the trailhead
Inside Redstreak Campground: after the entrance, take the first right; parking lot is on the right.
Leash dogs and stay at least 50 m from bighorn sheep; expect sun exposure and heat; watch for temporary closures during prescribed burns or seasonal road closures; carry bear spray and stay on signed paths to protect fragile grasslands.
Overview
A short, easy 1 km loop above Radium Hot Springs, this interpretive walk explores a meadow restored by fire on the south-facing slopes near Redstreak Campground. Expect gentle grades, a wide path, and signage that explains the area’s ecology and Secwépemc uses of medicinal plants. Plan on about 20–45 minutes depending on how much you linger.
What You’ll See
The loop crosses open grasslands dotted with Douglas‑fir and native bunchgrasses, with airy views toward the Columbia Valley. This is prime winter range for Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep—give them lots of space—and part of a rare dry Douglas‑fir/Ponderosa pine/wheatgrass ecosystem. Panels describe how Parks Canada thinned 114 hectares in 2002–2003 and began prescribed burns in spring 2005 (repeated every 5–10 years) to keep these fire‑dependent habitats open, bolster native grasses, reduce wildfire risk to Redstreak Campground and the Village of Radium Hot Springs, and support species like the American badger.
Difficulty and Time
It’s an easy family‑friendly loop with about 25 m of gentle up‑and‑down. Allow ~20 minutes for a steady stroll, more if you stop to read signs or watch wildlife.
Best Times to Hike
Fall, winter, and early spring offer the best chance to see bighorn sheep and cooler temps on this sunny, exposed slope. Summer can be hot with very little shade, so go early or late in the day.
Practical Notes
Trailhead parking is inside Redstreak Campground—after the entrance, take the first right; the lot is on the right. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed at all times. A valid Parks Canada entry pass is required to stop and hike. The Redstreak road may be closed to vehicles in the off‑season; the trail is then walk‑ or bike‑in. Occasional temporary closures can occur during prescribed burns or when sheep are using the area. Carry bear spray, make noise, and stay on signed paths to protect fragile grasslands.
If You Want More
For a slightly longer nearby stroll, the Redstreak Loop (1.8 km) offers sunny bluffs and views; the separate Redstreak Campground Trail connects the hot pools and campground for an easy forest walk.
Where it starts
50.6238, -116.0581Wildlife on this trail
Near Redstreak Restoration Trail
All places →All trails →
0.1 mi awayRedstreak Campground oTENTikTurnkey tent-cabins with hot showers and trails to the hot springsRestroom · Campground
0.1 mi awayRedstreak CampgroundSunny plateau campground above Radium with hookups and hot showersCampground · Restroom
0.6 mi awayRedstreak LoopShort, sunny loop with Columbia Valley views above the campgroundEasy · 1.1 mi · 45 min
0.6 mi awayKootenay National Park Visitor CentreYear‑round info hub with indoor restrooms in RadiumRestroom · Visitor Center
0.7 mi awaySinclair Creek TrailSteep creek and ridge grind to big views and real wildlife oddsChallenging · 7.4 mi · 6.5 hr
1.1 mi awaySinclair CanyonDramatic canyon views steps from Radium Hot SpringsParking · Restroom
1.1 mi awayJuniper TrailShort, viewy loop along Sinclair Canyon with wildlife and hot springs.Moderate · 3.7 mi · 2.5 hr
4.3 mi awayKimpton Creek TrailShady creekside climb with solitude and avalanche slopesModerate · 5.7 mi · 3 hr
