Plaid Lake and Mt Crawford hike
View PhotosPlaid Lake and Mt Crawford hike
Difficulty Rating:
Plaid Lake is a beautiful hike with an optional extension to summit Mount Crawford for spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The elevation gain is the most challenging part of this hike as you ascend and descend twice to enter the lake. Mount Crawford is close to as high as Mount Loki and overlooks Loki and many other peaks in this area. On the way up, the ridgeline unveils glimpses of Kootenay Lake cloaking the land below.
Getting there
From the Ferry Terminal in Kootenay Bay, drive towards Creston (South) and into the Village of Crawford Bay. Just before the church, turn left onto Wadds Road, after about 1.6mi, you will take another left onto Crawford Creek Road, and at 6.2mi, you need to bear left onto Crawford-Hooker Road, then again onto Plaid Lake Road. This road encompasses wooden signs for “Plaid Lake.” Note that driving a 2WD high clearance vehicle would be OK, but 4WD is advised for this road. The final stretch from the car park to the trailhead is almost impassable even with a 4WD vehicle due to a washout, although this can change year to year. Walking this part adds 0.6mi each way (as seen on the GPS).
About
When to do | Late June to Early September |
Backcountry Campsites | No official campgrounds, but camping near the lake is allowed |
Pets allowed | No |
Family friendly | Older Children only |
Route Signage | Poor |
Crowd Levels | Low |
Route Type | Out and back |
Plaid Lake and Mt Crawford
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Plaid Lake and Mt Crawford
This trail follows a mild route away from the crowds. It’s a family-friendly hike that traverses a panoply of terrain and landscapes: rocks, ridgelines, and forest, while also granting remarkable views of Kootenay Lake.
The well-worn path may be a little rocky with scattered brush at the start, but it is usually easy to walk—outside of snowfall, of course. Take a moment to admire the summer wildflowers as you walk!
Plaid Lake can be seen from Mt Crawford and sits in the lower valley, so even if you lose the trail for a while due to snow, the general direction is easy to navigate.
Some of you may want to scramble atop Mt Crawford. However, this part can be quite steep and dangerous for kids, so try to avoid doing this if you’re hiking with children. It may also be super rainy and windy at the top, but the view of Mount Loki will make the tough climb worth it in the end.
Do note that the meadows and Plaid Lake itself offer pleasant places to camp, although they are not designated campgrounds.
Insider Hints
Try this hike during the wildflower season in early July
Spend the weekend in Crawford Bay or Boswell and enjoy some summer lakeside activities. You can find a collection of lovely Airbnb’s in this area, and they usually offer free use of canoes.
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AveryJ. 4 years ago
It has incredible topography! I admire the landscapes and terrains! The vibrant color of the wildflowers also adds a great vibe to the whole place!
isaacanderson 4 years ago
It was a bit strenuous, but there are lots of amazing views to discover.
SophieM. 5 years ago
It is an amazing hidden gem in the West Kootenays! Absolute beauty!
adayinahikerslife 5 years ago
moderate & steep climb with outstanding views throughout the hike...
candycane 5 years ago
Exceptional scenery. Hoping they can develop some campgrounds in the future. I would love to hike here next spring.
tiara29 5 years ago
Beautiful hike. Can't help but adore the beautiful surroundings. The trees, the mountains, and the wildflowers. All amazing!
souly 5 years ago
There were some steep sections that required more energy. Make sure to bring enough water and snacks to replenish.