If you’re dreaming of a road trip, the West Kootenay region should be on your bucket list
With spectacular scenery, quiet roads, endless outdoor recreation and amazing amenities spread over a dozen unique communities, its best to discover us at a leisurely pace. Spend time in quiet wilderness or hot springs, at craft breweries, in ski resorts or discovering celebrated artisans in vibrant towns. Each community has an incredible diversity of experience, while sharing a common Kootenay culture.
Ainsworth Hot Springs – Castlegar – Kaslo – Lower Arrow Lake – Nakusp – Nelson – New Denver – North Kootenay Lake – Rossland – Crawford Bay – Silverton – Slocan – Southern Slocan Valley – Balfour – Trail – Upper Arrow Lake
Meet the Road Trip Communities
rossland
Rossland is located in the beautiful Kootenay Rockies Region, and is home of Red Mountain Resort and Big Red Cats. One of the largest ski resorts in Western Canada and the world's largest cat skiing operation. With over 200km of trails, Rossland is also considered a mountain biking mecca.
Trail
The mighty Columbia river running through Trail could tell some stories, sonny boy… The river is the heart of this city that offers innovative industry and lifestyle including incredible award-winning floral displays, an aquatic centre, a water park, a hospital, and more.
castlegar
Come and visit the centre of it all. Where mountains and rivers meet in a fertile valley that boasts rich cultural heritage, a thriving artistic scene and more than enough outdoor recreation for every kind of enthusiast. Take the time to reconnect by stopping by the little city in the valley.
nelson
Nelson is one of Canada's hidden gems. Nestled in the Selkirk mountains along the West Arm of Kootenay Lake, the vibrant mountain town of approximately 11,000 residents features a special combination of heritage, recreation, culture and creativity.
Ainsworth Hot Springs
Tiny Ainsworth Hot Springs, with a population of about 50 residents, overlooks Kootenay Lake and has the relaxing Ainsworth Hot Spring Resort, proudly owned and managed by the Yaqan Nukiy, of the Lower Kootenay Band. The caves must be seen to be believed!
Balfour
Balfour, home to the Kootenay Lake ferry, is a serene community cradled by the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges. Home to fishing, hiking, biking, golfing and beachfronts, it's located between Nelson and Kaslo along Kootenay Lake.
kaslo
Kaslo, a quaint village on the shores of Kootenay Lake in the Selkirk mountains, overlooks the soaring peaks in the Purcell mountain range. Heritage buildings have been lovingly restored, including the S.S. Moyie, the world's oldest intact sternwheeler.
north kootenay lake
The Lardeau Valley and Meadow Creek are filled with world renowned hiking, cat and heli skiing, and lie just north of Kaslo. It's a quiet spot at the north end of Kootenay Lake, known for grizzly bears, homesteaders and true wilderness aficionados.
nakusp
Nakusp is the hub of Arrow Lakes. Stroll the downtown core stopping into galleries and boutiques while enjoying the local restaurants and cafes. Don't miss the waterfront walkway to take in the beautiful views up and down Arrow Lakes, or spend sometime at one of the nearby natural hot springs.
silverton
Silverton is a small turn of the century community on the shores of Slocan Lake. Walk the historic downtown, visit the gallery, parks and beaches, while taking in the historic elements of the community's past.
new denver
Set on the shores of Slocan Lake, New Denver's history is found in its beautiful heritage buildings, museums and monuments. Grab a coffee, take a lakeside stroll and enjoy views of the Valhallas.
Lower & Upper Arrow Lake
Upper Arrow Lake is home to a number of small lakeside communities with a unique rural charm: Edgewood, Fauquier, Burton and Arrow Park. Between the beautiful Selkirk and Monashee mountains, Lower Arrow Lake is a popular year-round destination for watersports, hiking and camping.
Slocan
Slocan City has the privledge of being located both at the south end of Slocan Lake and at the headwaters of the Slocan River. Known for its beautiful sandy beach and park-like setting, there is no shortage of recreation to be found here.
Southern Slocan Valley
Life on the riverside is truly as peaceful as imaged. In the Southern Slocan Valley, small communities dot the Slocan River. Connected by quiet roads and the Slocan Valley Rail Trail, it's easy to slow down and relax.
East Shore
The Balfour Kootenay Bay ferry is the gateway to the artisan communities all along the shores of Kootenay Lake, from Crawford Bay to Wynndel. Campgrounds and resorts, general stores, golf courses, glass houses, marinas, parks, and small communities will capture interest as you journey along the scenic highway #3A.
