Why Manning Park Should Be on Your Travel Explore List

"When you look out on the universe you realize how small your worries are in comparison to the night sky."

I will always remember looking at the stars at Manning Park that late September night and thinking summer is passing by too fast. Manning Park is known for both being a summertime resort and wintertime getaway, with each season presenting new opportunities for adventure. Sometimes you feel that the air is even different in Manning Park - maybe because of the low light pollution, distance from cities, or part of its nature in a protected environment, it just feels different - in a different way. Manning Park is an underrated resort compared to other ski resorts and summer destinations, but it does have its own charm.

There are a couple things you should explore while in Manning Park including the resort, lake, and other areas.

Manning Park Resort

Manning Park Resort is an often underrated resort, but it has a rustic charm that is very inviting. Come experience that unique cabin life, equipped with a mini-kitchen and tools so you can bring your own food, or microwave leftovers if you need too.

Lightning Lake

Located near Manning Park resort, Lightning Lake is one of the key highlights of the region. On a warm sunny day in the summer, you can see many people barbecuing, canoeing or swimming from one side of the lake to another. Renting a canoe and paddling at Lightning Lake should not be forgotten. On a warm day in early September, you can swim from one side of lake to the other side and quickly feel refreshed after.

Othello Tunnels - Every time I go to Othello tunnels, I am always in awe of the vastness of the tunnels. Built in the early 1900s, the Canadian Pacific Railway decided to build a railway track on a route to link the Kootenay Region with the British Columbia coast by rail. Originally built for the Kettle Valley Railway 1914, they are now part of the Trans-Canada trail. A couple years ago, storms destroyed much of the tunnels, and only a certain portion is open now.

Windy Joe- This is a rather challenging hike (recommended around 6-7 hours) with an elevation gain of 3,720 ft through EC Manning Park which ends with a solitary wood frame fire lookout station located in a subalpine clearing at the peak of Windy Joe Mountain. This hike is not for the faint hearted, as it requires a certain level of agility and mental toughness. At the top, you will reach a fire lookout, which during the olden days, people used to identify fires. You build a lot of resiliency when going on a hard hike, and the reward at the top does feel worth it at the end.

Mount Frosty - This is a difficult 22km hike with 1160m elevation gain, taking 8 hours at a leisurely rate, with a great view of the Coastal Mountains. It is best to attempt this hike in fall so you can see the golden larches in September or early October.

Manning Park Review: 4/5

Every time I go on a nature outing I always feel refreshed and energized to overcome challenges in life. This is a summertime/wintertime adventure that you will always remember - for the starry skies, windy views, and summertime vibes! Summers can be awfully warm, so be sure to go on a summer day that's not too hot or visit Manning park in the fall to hike.

Every season brings new excitement and adventure, so it's even a bad time to explore what mother nature has to offer!