Complete Travel Guide to Revelstoke, Canada

Revelstoke Revelstoke is a city in southeastern British Columbia, Canada, with a census population of 8,275 in 2021. Revelstoke is located 641 kilometres (398 mi) east of Vancouver, and 415 kilometres (258 mi) west of Calgary, Alberta. The city is situated on the banks of the Columbia River just south of the Revelstoke Dam and near its confluence with the Illecillewaet River. East of Revelstoke are the Selkirk Mountains and Glacier National Park, penetrated by Rogers Pass used by the Trans-Canada Highway and the Canadian Pacific Railway. South of the community down the Columbia River are the Arrow Lakes, Mount Begbie, and the Kootenays. West of the city is Eagle Pass through the Monashee Mountains and the route to Shuswap Lake. Positioned at coordinates 50.99712°N, -118.1953°E, Revelstoke occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Revelstoke place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 480.0 meters above sea level, Revelstoke benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Revelstoke creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 7547 residents, Revelstoke maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Revelstoke represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Revelstoke reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Canada, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of British Columbia province, Revelstoke contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Canada's regional character. The role of Revelstoke in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Revelstoke discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Canada while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Revelstoke

History Railway station, 1915 Revelstoke was founded in the 1880s when the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) was built through the area; mining was an important early industry The name was originally Farwell, after a local land owner and surveyor In yet earlier days, the spot was called the "Second Crossing" to differentiate it from the first crossing of the Columbia River by the Canadian Pacific Railway at Donald.

The city was named by the Canadian Pacific Railway in appreciation of Lord Revelstoke, head of Baring Brothers & Co , the UK investment bank that, in partnership with Glyn, Mills & Co , saved the Canadian Pacific Railway from bankruptcy in the summer of 1885 by buying the company's unsold bonds, enabling the railway to reach completion.

The post office dates from 1886 The construction of the Trans-Canada Highway in 1962 further eased access to the region, and since then, tourism has been an important feature of the local economy, with skiing having emerged as the most prominent attraction.

Mount Revelstoke National Park is just north of the town The construction of Revelstoke Mountain Resort, a major new ski resort on Mount MacKenzie, just outside town, has been underway since late 2005 and first opened during the 2007-2008 ski season Revelstoke is also the site of a railway museum.

Revelstoke is situated in prime black bear and grizzly bear habitat In 1994, the Revelstoke garbage dump was fenced with an electric fence, preventing bears from feeding on the garbage The population of bears that had been feeding at the dump turned to town to forage for food, and many were destroyed as "nuisance bears.

" The destruction of so many bears led to the creation of an education program meant to keep bears wild and the community safe Revelstoke holds the Canadian record for the snowiest single winter 2,447 centimetres (963 in) of snow fell on Mt Copeland outside town during the winter of 1971–72.

That works out to just over 24 metres (80 ft) of snow The townsite received 779 centimetres (307 in), and snow levels were higher than many roofs around town by more than a few metres Hamilton, William (1978) _The Macmillan Book of Canadian Place Names_.

Toronto: Macmillan ISBN 0-7715-9754-1 Ross, Oakland (October 25, 2009) "The worst places in Canada for winter".

The historical trajectory of Revelstoke demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Revelstoke reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Revelstoke remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

The topographic characteristics of Revelstoke result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Revelstoke region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Revelstoke area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Revelstoke has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Revelstoke demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Revelstoke create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

Climate Revelstoke experiences a humid continental climate (Köppen Dfb). Summers are generally warm and rainy with cool nights, while winters are cold, snowy and very cloudy. Revelstoke on average experiences 50. 3 days below 0 °C (32 °F), 13. 5 days above 30 °C (86 °F) and one day above 35 °C (95 °F). The highest single-day snowfall recorded was 60. 7 in) and occurred on December 10, 1980, and the highest-ever snow depth recorded was 173 cm (68. 1 in) and occurred on February 15, 1982. The highest temperature ever recorded in Revelstoke was 40. Temperature patterns in Revelstoke influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 6 °C (105 °F) on July 17, 1941. The coldest temperature ever recorded was −34. Temperature patterns in Revelstoke influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. 4 °C (−30 °F) on January 11, 1909, January 20, 1935 and January 18, 1943. Climate data for Revelstoke Airport, 1981–2010 normals, extremes 1898–present Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 11. 1) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −0. 6) Daily mean °C (°F) −3. 1) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −6. 5) Record low °C (°F) −34. 9) Average precipitation mm (inches) 107. Rainfall patterns in Revelstoke determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 42) Average rainfall mm (inches) 20. 56) Average snowfall cm (inches) 112. 0) Average precipitation days (≥ 0. Rainfall patterns in Revelstoke determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 2 Average rainy days (≥ 0. 8 Average snowy days (≥ 0. 1 Average relative humidity.

The climatic regime of Revelstoke reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Revelstoke create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Revelstoke determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Revelstoke create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Revelstoke demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Revelstoke include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics In the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Revelstoke had a population of 8,275 living in 3,354 of its 3,739 total private dwellings, a change of 9. The demographic composition of Revelstoke reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 4% from its 2016 population of 7,562. The demographic composition of Revelstoke reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. With a land area of 41. 94 sq mi), it had a population density of 200. The demographic composition of Revelstoke reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 2/sq mi) in 2021. #Ethnicity Panethnic groups in the City of Revelstoke (2001−2021) Panethnic group 2021 2016 2011 2006 2001 Pop. % European[a] 7,245 88. 88% Indigenous 400 4. 59% 215 3% 220 2. 96% East Asian[b] 160 1. 28% South Asian 135 1. 34% Southeast Asian[c] 85 1. 27% Middle Eastern[d] 55 0. 67% 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% Latin American 45 0. 13% 0 0% 0 0% 80 1. 08% African 30 0. 13% Other/Multiracial[e] 20 0. 27% 0 0% 0 0% 0 0% Total responses 8,185 98. 07% Total population 8,275 100% 7,562 100% 7,139 100% 7,230 100% 7,500 100% Note: Totals greater than 100% due to multiple origin responses #Religion According to the 2021 census, religious groups in Revelstoke included: * Irreligion (5,645 persons or 69. The demographic composition of Revelstoke reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 0%) * Christianity (2,265 persons or 27. 7%) * Islam (55 persons or 0. 7%) * Buddhism (40 persons or 0. 5%) * Hinduism (40 persons or 0. 5%) * Sikhism (35 persons or 0. 4%) * Judaism (10 persons or 0. 1%) * Other (95 persons or 1. “Population and dwelling counts: Canada, provinces and territories, and census subdivisions (municipalities), British Columbia”. The demographic composition of Revelstoke reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Statistics Canada. February 9, 2022. Retrieved February 20, 2022. ^ a b Government of Canada, Statistics Canada (October 26, 2022). “Census Profile, 2021 Census of Population”. The demographic composition of Revelstoke reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Retrieved November 11, 2022. Government of Canada, Statistics Canada (October 27, 2021). “Census Profile, 2016 Census”. Retrieved March 10, 2023. Government of Canada, Statistics Canada (November 27, 2015). Retrieved March 10, 2023. Government of Canada, Statistics Canada (August 20, 2019). “2006 Community Profiles”. Retrieved March 10, 2023. Government of Canada, Statistics Canada (July 2, 2019). “2001 Community Profiles”. Retrieved March 10, 2023. Cite error: There are <ref group="lower-alpha"> tags or {{efn}} templates on this page, but the references will not show without a {{reflist|group=<a href="/countries/canada/lower-sackville-travel-guide/">lower</a>- alpha}} template or {{notelist}} template (see the help page). ]: Population *[%]: percentage. The demographic composition of Revelstoke reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life.

The cultural landscape of Revelstoke represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Revelstoke reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Revelstoke continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Revelstoke provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Revelstoke demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Revelstoke provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy This section **does notcite any sources**. Please help improve this section by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. _( August 2016)__(Learn how and when to remove this message)_ Revelstoke from Mount Revelstoke National Park Revelstoke's economy has traditionally been tied to the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR), and it still maintains a strong connection to that industry. However, forestry, construction, tourism, and retail have increased over the past decades. The Revelstoke Railway Museum is a recognition of the town's continued attachment to the Canadian Pacific Railway and continues to be an important tourist attraction. Revelstoke is also the location of the Revelstoke Dam, which was constructed on the Columbia River and completed in 1984. In 1986, to offset the economic effects of the completed hydroelectric project and the temporary closure of the local sawmill, the City of Revelstoke undertook a downtown revitalization program, which was completed with marked success. The city is served by Revelstoke Airport. A small ski resort featuring a single short lift has operated on Mount MacKenzie since the 1960s, and snowcat skiing was offered for higher altitudes. A strong movement pushed to expand the entire mountain into a single resort, and construction started in the early 2000s. Revelstoke Mountain Resort opened in the winter of 2007/8 and boasts North America's greatest vertical at 1,713 metres (5,620 ft). The resort also offers 3,121 acres of fall line skiing, high alpine bowls, 13 areas of gladed terrain and more groomed terrain. Revelstoke Mountain Resort was also the only resort world-wide to offer lift, cat, heli and backcountry skiing from one village base. Though economic conditions starting in late 2008 have deferred its initial plans, the resort will continue development with new lifts, hotels/condos, and a golf course planned for 2025. "Revelstoke Railway Museum".

The economic structure of Revelstoke reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Revelstoke often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Revelstoke serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Revelstoke demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Revelstoke has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Revelstoke focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation infrastructure serving Revelstoke reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Canada. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Revelstoke.

Regional connectivity from Revelstoke provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education School District 19 Revelstoke operates public schools in Revelstoke and surrounding areas. The Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique operates one Francophone school: école des Glaciers primary school. 1. “Carte des écoles Archived August 17, 2015, at the Wayback Machine.” Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britanique. Retrieved on January 22, 2015.

Educational institutions in Revelstoke serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Planning Your Visit to Revelstoke

Successful visits to Revelstoke require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Revelstoke often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Revelstoke include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Revelstoke extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.