Elevation Gain
275.00 ft (83.82 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
6.00 mi (9.66 km)
Warming hut
No
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The Fraser River Trail offers miles of hiking and biking opportunities during the summer, but in the winter months it turns into a fantastic groomed track that is open to any non-motorized use including walking, snowshoeing and skiing.

The section of trail between Winter Park and the ski resort is a popular stretch. It can be hiked as a 6 mile out and back, or you can utilize the free town bus system to cut that length in half.

Idlewild Road is a good place to start. You’ll need to park near Hideaway Park, then walk up the road for a short distance as there is no parking allowed right near the Fraser River Trail here.

You’ll then begin following the groomed trail in a southerly direction. It stays near the river, and passes through some sections of forested land. The path then comes near Highway 40.

You’ll follow close to the highway for most of the remainder of the trail. Traffic noise is audible, but not too bad.

The trail crosses under the highway then comes out to Winter Park Drive. This is the end of the groomed trail and the turnaround point. You can walk the road a short distance to the nearest bus stop if you wish to take the bus back to town, otherwise return the way you came.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Pros

Scenic trail along the Fraser River. Groomed and free for public use.

Cons

Some road noise as the trail parallels Highway 40.

Pets allowed

Allowed

Trailhead Elevation

8,757.00 ft (2,669.13 m)

Highest point

9,017.00 ft (2,748.38 m)

Features

Family friendly
Near lake or river
Wildlife
Fishing
Big vistas
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

No

Groomed trail

Yes

Snowmobiles allowed

No

Location

Comments

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