Trophy Mountain Flower Meadows
Walking Time
2-6 hours
Distance
5km – 15km round trip
Difficulty
Moderate
The Hike
The Trophy Mountain Trail offers breathtaking views of alpine meadows and multiple mountain lakes. Expect a gradual climb through a forest which becomes increasingly open as you ascend before breaking into vibrant wildflower meadows. The old shepherd’s cabin is located 30 minutes past the lower meadows and makes a perfect turnaround point for shorter hikes. Continue further for stunning 360‑degree views and alpine lakes.
Lower Meadows (Easy) approx 3km round trip
A gentle walk through the first open meadows — perfect for families, photographers, and anyone wanting a relaxed alpine experience.
Sheila Lake (Moderate) approx 5 km round trip
A beautiful tarn surrounded by meadows and larch. A great half‑day destination. Their is a campsite here for folks looking for a backpacking experience.
Ridge & Beyond (More Challenging)
Continue past Sheila Lake for sweeping views across the Trophy high country. This requires advanced route finding skills and proper backcountry gear as beyond this point it is considered a ‘route’ and not a maintained trail.
Pets
Dogs are permitted on the trail but they must be kept on leash. Bring water for your pet, be mindful of wildlife, and please clean up after your pet to preserve the trail for everyone.
Protecting the Meadows
Please stay on the designated trail at all times. The alpine flowers in the Trophy Meadows are extremely delicate, and stepping off‑trail — even briefly to take photos — can crush plants that will not recover in such a short growing season. Staying on the path helps protect the meadows so they can continue to bloom year after year and leaves the meadows as stunning for the next hiker as they were for you.
Wildflower Seasons at Trophy Mountain
The Trophy Meadows change quickly throughout the summer, with different flowers blooming as the snow melts and the slopes warm. Each part of the season offers something unique, from early‑season lilies to peak‑season colour and the warm tones of fall. Use the guide below to choose the timing that fits your trip.
Early Season (Late June – Mid July)
As the snow melts back, the meadows begin their first wave of bloom. Avalanche lilies, spring beauties, pasque flowers, marsh marigolds, arnica, and valerian appear right behind the retreating snowfields — sometimes even pushing through the last patches of snow. Conditions change quickly at this time of year, with fresh water running off the slopes and wildlife active throughout the area.
Peak Bloom (Mid July – Mid August)
This is the most colourful stretch of the season. Mountain avens brighten the higher ridges, while paintbrush, lupine, and other summer wildflowers open across the meadows. Different slopes bloom at different times, so the mix of flowers shifts from day to day. By early August, the meadows are at their fullest, with heathers on the ridges and rein orchids in wetter pockets.
Late Season (Late August – September)
As the first frosts arrive, the flowers begin to fade and the meadows transition into warm autumn tones. Grasses and shrubs take on shades of gold, red, and rust, and the days are typically clear and comfortable. It’s a quieter time on the mountain, with cooler evenings and wildlife preparing for the coming winter.
How to Get There
Turn right just past Spahats Falls onto the Trophy Mountain Access Road. At 4 km, the road forks — stay left. Continue following the road uphill until you reach the park boundary and the trailhead.
Parking is available at the trailhead. The final 4 km of the access road is a bumpy gravel stretch, and low‑clearance vehicles may have difficulty. RVs are not recommended due to rough sections and tight turns.
The trailhead is located 11.4 km up the road.