Revelstoke was uninhabited until the Canadian Pacific Railway built tracks through the area. It was called Second Crossing to differentiate it from Donald, the first place the Canadian Pacific Railway traveled over the Columbia River. The town then became Farwell, named after a local surveyor. However, the Canadian Pacific Railway eventually settled on Revelstoke, after Lord Revelstoke, the head of a British investment bank who helped the railway avoid bankruptcy.
The new Trans-Canada Highway connected Revelstoke to Calgary and Vancouver in 1962, boosting visitation numbers. Tourism is still the most important industry for the local economy, so expect the people of Revelstoke to welcome you with open arms.
While Revelstoke offers all the great accommodations, restaurants, retail opportunities, and other attractions visitors could want, its best features are found outdoors. With beautiful trails, ski slopes, and stunning scenery everywhere you turn, Revelstoke is the ideal place to recharge your batteries.
When should you visit Revelstoke, BC?
The best time to visit Revelstoke depends on your motivations. Ski enthusiasts love winter getaways, when Revelstoke Mountain is covered in thick snow. Other snow seekers will have the same idea, so book your accommodations early and expect to pay more than you would during other times of the year.
If you don't love winter sports, leave December, January, and February to visitors that do and enjoy warmer weather during the summer. July and August have the best weather, with temperatures ranging from 40 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit and little rain to spoil the party. June is also pleasant, although the mornings and nights can be chilly. Similar to the winter months, summer witnesses a visitation increase, so expect to pay more for your accommodations and airfares.
Fall and spring have the most favorable rates. Winter's chill tends to linger, however, so book your travel closer to summer if you're bothered by the cold. Revelstoke gets most of its rain during October, with an average of 1.8 inches falling during this month each year.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Revelstoke, BC:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average nightly cost trends by star rating class in Revelstoke, BC. Analyze these charts to evaluate the most cost effective seasons to stay in Revelstoke during the year.
Where are the top luxury hotels in the Revelstoke area?
As with many popular skiing destinations, Revelstoke caters well to travelers who enjoy the finest things in life. Indulge yourself at the following high-end Revelstoke hotels.
From the moment you drive into Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort's underground heated parking lot, you'll know this resort goes the extra mile. It has three separate buildings, connected by a central lobby, with more than 200 spacious condos featuring luxury furnishings and stunning views of the Columbia River and Monashee and Selkirk Mountains. At the end of a long day on the slopes, choose from four on-site dining experiences. The resort also has an indoor pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a full-service day spa.
Whether you're tying the knot or simply want a special place to stay, Mulvehill Creek Wilderness Inn and Wedding Chapel has you covered. This upscale inn, nestled between the Selkirk and Monashee Mountains, is an intimate choice, with only eight guest rooms, including a beautiful honeymoon suite. While the Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort offers indoor activities, the outdoors is your playground here. Its outdoor saltwater pool has therapeutic properties. Grab a canoe and paddle down the Upper Arrow Lake or drop a line and try to catch dinner. The property also has hiking trails and climbable rock faces.
What are the most affordable hotels near Revelstoke, British Columbia?
The following low-priced Revelstoke hotels let you save more money for your ski lift passes and other travel expenses — ideal for visitors on a budget.
Revelstoke Lodge has charming rooms with wooden furniture, flat-screen LED TVs, microwave ovens, refrigerators, and tea- and coffee-making facilities for your caffeine cravings. The Wi-Fi is fast and free throughout the property. While you won't find an on-site pool, guests receive a free pass to Revelstoke Aquatic Centre, which has pools, a hot tub, a sauna, a wild water slide, and a lazy river.
Powder Springs Inn guests also receive passes to the Revelstoke Aquatic Centre, which is an easy two-minute walk from the hotel. The inn is a pet-friendly space, unlike Revelstoke Lodge, with suites as well as standard guest rooms. The rooms have a vintage feel, with wingback chairs and wooden dressers, although cable TV and wireless internet add modern flair. The inn's Last Drop Pub serves craft beers and classic pub fare. Relax by the fireplace or enjoy entertainment from live bands and DJs during most nights of the week.
