Nels Nelsen Historic Area Guide
Daredevil History: Nels Nelsen Historic Area Guide
Prepare to be amazed at the Nels Nelsen Historic Area, a testament to the daring spirit of early ski jumping. Located on Mount Revelstoke National Park, this site commemorates the legendary Nels Nelsen, a pioneer of ski jumping who set numerous world records on this very hill. Imagine the thrill and danger of launching oneself off a massive wooden ramp, soaring through the air, and landing on a steep slope. This is where ski jumping history was made! Nels Nelsen, born Nils Johan Nilsen in Norway, immigrated to Canada and became a prominent figure in the development of ski jumping. In 1916, he set a world record of 183.5 feet (56 meters) on the Mount Revelstoke ski jump, solidifying its reputation as a premier ski jumping destination. The jump was later renamed in his honor. Over the years, the jump was modified and improved, hosting numerous competitions and attracting ski jumpers from around the world. While the original jump is no longer in use, the historic area preserves the legacy of Nels Nelsen and the golden age of ski jumping. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the ski jump, including the judges' tower and the landing hill. Interpretive panels tell the story of Nels Nelsen and the history of ski jumping on Mount Revelstoke. Hiking trails wind through the area, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. While there are no specific culinary traditions associated with the site itself, Revelstoke offers a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a meal after your visit. Consider trying some local craft beer or a hearty mountain-style dish.
Transportation
The Nels Nelsen Historic Area is located within Mount Revelstoke National Park. From Revelstoke, follow the Meadows in the Sky Parkway up Mount Revelstoke. The historic area is located along the parkway. Note that the Meadows in the Sky Parkway is typically open from late June to late September, depending on snow conditions. A valid park pass is required to enter Mount Revelstoke National Park.