Spring in Rossland feels like a deep exhale. The snow starts to melt, the trails slowly reappear, and suddenly, you remember what dirt smells like. After months of crunchy snow and clunky boots, the 100 Acre Wood Trail is the perfect place to ease back into nature. Alternatively, this trail is also known as the Murphy Creek Trail which is less whimsy but is the official name all the same.
It’s just a short drive or a pleasant walk from downtown Rossland, and at 2.7 kilometres out and back, it’s an easy hike for most ages. Which is exactly what I want in those early spring weeks when I still feel like a baby deer finding my footing again. The path features informational signage that speaks to the importance of preserving the forests for future generations, as well as highlights the different ecosystems that call it home.
Learn something about the world around you and take the opportunity to slow down and really take it all in!
Hiking in Rossland is Not Just For Pros
As soon as you step into the trees, the world gets quiet in the best way. The cedars are massive, like something out of a storybook. The snow melts, but the ground stays cool and damp well into summer. The air smells like rain-soaked moss and last year’s leaves. If you’re lucky, you’ll have the whole trail to yourself. Except maybe for a few birds and the occasional squirrel giving you a judgmental stare.
One of my favourite things about walking this trail in spring is how soft and filtered the light feels. Even on a sunny day, barely any direct sunlight reaches the forest floor, but somehow it still looks bright. The canopy creates this green glow that makes everything feel a little magical. It’s quiet, not in a spooky way, but in a gentle, thoughtful kind of way. Like the forest is stretching after a long nap, and you’re just quietly tiptoeing through it.
Learn While You Explore
There are interpretive signs along the way that offer some great little facts about the trees and the ecosystem. I always intend to read them all, but usually, I get distracted by the smell of cedar or trying to identify a weird mushroom.
About halfway through, at the lookout marked on the trail guide, you’ll come across a beautiful carved wooden bench with the faces of real Rossland locals etched into it. It’s the perfect spot to sit, reflect, or pretend you’re reflecting while catching your breath and eating the snacks you swore you’d save for later.
Be Prepared When Hiking in BC
One quick reminder: Spring is when bears start to wake up. So yes, bring your bear spray. Even if it ends up buried at the bottom of your bag, you might be happy to have it. Just make sure it’s there. Despite the recent discord about bear bells, I personally always strap one on for good measure. It is something my Bampa taught me to do when hiking around trails in BC. And who am I to question my ancestors lived experience?
The lookout at the midway point of the trail is a little overgrown, but you can still catch glimpses of the valley beyond. Try and catch it at sunset to watch golden hues to take over the landscape.
How To Get There
From the Rossland Museum, drive 15.5km north on Highway 3B and look for the sign on the right-side of the highway.
From Castlegar, drive 30 kilometres west on Highway 3 and then turn left onto Highway 3B at Nancy Greene Lake. Continue 13.5 kilometres south on Highway 3B and watch for the sign on the left-side of the highway. The turn off comes up quick so keep an eye out for the large wooden handmade sign.
The 100 Acre Trail in Rossland isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey. The quiet moments of solitude, and the gentle reminder of just how incredible BC’s forests can be.
If you’re looking for something a bit more challenging, check out the Friends of Rossland day-use cabin network located on the Rossland Range Recreation Site. While too advanced for me, but it comes highly recommended by the Instagram fam!
Your Rossland Road Trip Starts Here
Whether you’re a history lover, trail chaser, art admirer, or just need a change of scenery, Rossland is the kind of place that makes you slow down—in the best way.
Whether you’re into history, hiking, or just enjoy discovering cool, off-the-map spots, the Rossland is a highlight worth the detour.
And if you’re into scenic drives and hidden gems, give @HeyBethTaylor a follow on Instagram for more off-the-beaten-path adventures across British Columbia.
