If you’re dreaming of a road trip, the West Kootenays should be on your bucket list. With spectacular scenery, quiet roads, and all kinds of amazing amenities and recreational opportunities spread throughout eight unique communities, it’s best discovered at a leisurely pace. From hot springs to craft breweries, ski resorts to celebrated artisans, and vibrant towns to far out wilderness, each community offers an incredible diversity of experiences while still sharing a common Kootenay culture.
Meet the Kootenay Road Trip Communities
rossland
Rossland is located in the beautiful Kootenay Rockies Region of British Columbia, and is home of Red Mountain Resort, one of the largest ski resorts in Western Canada and Big Red Cats, the world's largest cat skiing operation. With over 200 km of maintained single track trails, Rossland is also considered a mountain biking mecca during Spring to Fall.
trail
Trail is located on both banks of the Columbia River, approximately 10 km north of the United States border. This section of the Columbia River valley is located between the Monashee Mountains to the west and the Selkirk Mountains to the east and is best known for world class fishing and it's rich Italian heritage.
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.
arrowlakes
The Lower Arrow Lake is situated between the Selkirk & Monashee mountain ranges. A popular year-round destination for many activities including boating, canoeing, swimming, fishing, camping to climbing, biking and hiking.
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.
balfour
Balfour landing is a tasty stop while waiting for the Kootenay Lake ferry, and is cradled by the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges. Home to fishing, hiking, artisans, biking, golfing and beachfronts properties, Balfour is conveniently located between Nelson and Kaslo along Kootenay Lake.
ainsworth
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.
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.
northkootenaylake
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.
eastshore
Kootenay Bay 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, a glass house, marinas, parks, and small communities will capture interest as you journey along the scenic Highway #3A.
