Nelson & Kootenay Lake
On the West Arm of Kootenay Lake resides Nelson, a mountain city with a big city buzz. Nearby towns along the east and west shore include Ainsworth Hot Springs, Balfour, Crawford Bay and more.
The region, in the southeast corner of British Columbia includes natural, clean, uncrowded activities and experiences that reflect the lifestyle, the culture and the community of Canada’s West. And for generations, Kootenay locals have taken great care of the wonder that you see around you. As a valued visitor, we hope that you will help us continue to do so. By being a responsible traveller, you become a partner in our destination's economic, socio-cultural and environmental sustainability and contribute to the region's destination stewardship commitment. Enjoy all that British Columbia’s Mountain Playground has to offer.
Discover scenic vistas, meet warm, friendly people, hike a mountain park or stroll along quaint streets – each community has its own unique story to tell.
On the West Arm of Kootenay Lake resides Nelson, a mountain city with a big city buzz. Nearby towns along the east and west shore include Ainsworth Hot Springs, Balfour, Crawford Bay and more.
Nestled between the Monashee and Columbia mountain ranges, the alpine city of Revelstoke has something to offer in every season including the Grizzly Plaza and the Revelstoke Mountain Resort.
A small, friendly town situated along the shore of Windermere Lake. Invermere showcases Panorama Mountain Resort, James Chabot Provincial Park and many watersports.
Cranbrook's strategic location makes it the commercial centre for the region. A few of the city's major attractions include the Cranbrook History Centre, Community Forest and Rail Trail.
New Denver is the largest centre in the Slocan Valley. The Selkirk Mountains rise above Slocan Lake and numerous towns dot the valley; Silverton, Slocan, Winlaw and Sandon.
Creston features wonderful wineries and is a retreat for foodies, creatives and lovers of the land. Be sure to visit the Kootenay-Columbia Discovery Centre.
Situated at the confluence of the Kootenay and Columbia Rivers, Castlegar is home to an impressive network of trails, where hikers and cyclists enjoy the natural setting of the city. It also has a strong historical connection to the Doukhobors.
The village of Radium Hot Springs lies at the southern entrance to Kootenay National Park. The hot pool facilities are located in Sinclair Canyon, just a couple of minutes inside the park boundary.
The largest community in the Elk Valley is also the oldest. Explore Fernie's historic downtown for its treasure of 100 year old brick and stone architecture. Set in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, wilderness adventure begins right at the edge of town.
The village of Canal Flats is nestled halfway between Cranbrook to the south and Invermere to the north. It features the Columbia Lake, Tilley Memorial Park and the Source of the Columbia Trail.
The alpine city of Kimberley is set on the eastern slope of the valley. The former mining town has recreated itself info a wonderful destination featuring a number of golf courses, ski resort, pedestrian mall and nature park.
Elkford is the most remote town in the Elk Valley; a scenic 30 minute drive north of Sparwood. This area is a preferred habitat for Bighorn Sheep.
Rossland is an outdoor mecca for fans of skiing, mountain biking, hiking, golfing, fishing and more. It is home to RED Mountain Resort, Redstone Golf Resort and the Gold Fever Follies.
The village of Nakusp is set on the shores of Upper Arrow Lake alongside the Monashee Mountains and is home to the quaint & popular Nakusp Hot Springs.
The city of Trail is flanked by the Monashee & Selkirk Mountains. The Trail / Rossland area is home to some of NA's top mountain biking and hiking trails. Be sure to tour the Sports Hall of Memories.
The town of Golden is surrounded by 6 national and provincial parks between the Canadian Rockies and Purcell Mountains. It is home to world-renowned Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.
The town of Sparwood is located in the centre of the Elk Valley and the 350 ton Terex Titan truck welcomes you at the entrance.
Kaslo is a pretty village set on the shores of Kootenay Lake. The Purcell Mountains tower above the community and the wide tree-lined streets and stately old houses exude charm. It is also home to the SS Moyie - a National Historic site.
