It’s time for an escape along BC’s hidden route! The unbeaten path offers many remarkable hidden gems in the Kootenays on the road less travelled. As we venture off of the Rainforest to Rockies, from Trans-Canada Highway 1 or the Crowsnest, Highway 3 – the allure of Highway 23/6 has captivated the hearts of motorcyclists and road-cyclists worldwide. So buckle up, step away from the usual and explore these outstanding ‘must-see and do’ experiences along the route.
HOT SPRINGS
Escape to the tranquil oasis of the natural hot springs in this valley. Unwind and rejuvenate at Halcyon Hot Springs Resort, a scenic 90-minute drive south of Highway 1 (Revelstoke). The stunning natural hot springs are the crown jewel of this oasis. The upper deck features a toasty pool with a jetted swim channel. Not your speed? Try the restful hot pool or dare to dip into the cold plunge. On the lower deck, you’ll find a mineral swimming pool and a kid’s splash park. With temperatures averaging at 40C (104F) for the hot pool, 37C (99F) for the warm pool, and a brisk 14C (58F) for the cold pool, Halcyon offer pools to suit everyone’s preference.
Serenity awaits at the Nakusp Hot Springs, Chalets & Campground, just a short 15-minute drive northeast from Nakusp. The majestic mountain backdrop of Nakusp’s hot springs pools, enables nature’s beauty embraces you. The mineral-rich waters, sourced from the Kuskanax Creek, creates a soothing oasis. With an average temperature of 42C (108F) in the small pool and 30C (86F) in the large pool, prepare to experience a unique blend of relaxation and rejuvenation.
RIVERS AND LAKES
Throughout your epic journey, you’ll drive along the magnificent Columbia River as it gracefully winds through the Arrow Lakes (Upper and Lower) and Slocan Lake. Embrace the exhilarating moments along this stretch of highway, where paddling and swimming reign supreme.
Get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime as you chase after the awe-inspiring waterfalls scattered all along the way. From Evan’s Beach Creek (Valhalla Provincial Park), Ione (Highway 23, 21-km north of Nakusp), Nemo Creek (Valhalla Provincial Park), Springer Creek (Slocan), Sutherland (Blanket Creek Provincial Park), and Wilson Creek (19-km northeast of New Denver), you’re bound to uncover nature’s splendid wonders.
HERITAGE & CULTURE
This remarkable valley boasts a rich and storied past. Once a bustling hub during the silver mine rush, Sandon was home to over 5,000 residents. But when the silver ran out, so did the town’s luck; it was quickly abandoned and, in 1955, a flash flood demolished many of its buildings.
Today, this ghost town’s fascinating story is chronicled in a museum located in the historic Slocan Mercantile General Store. The General Store features the original brick material and detailing typical of a commercial building of stature in its era.
The historic Halcyon Hot Springs Hotel, established in 1894, was an exclusive retreat accessible only by steamboat or sternwheeler. Today, it’s the Halcyon Hot Springs Resort & Spa, which focuses on wellness with an on-site spa, wellness lounge, yoga retreats, leisure activities, a full-service restaurant and plenty of access to nature.
Nearby, New Denver holds our past history at the Nikkei Internment Memorial Centre (a Japanese Canadian Internment camp during WWII), now transformed into a poignant Memorial museum with a serene Japanese garden.
HIKING AND BIKING
There are so many amazing bonuses to be had! Enjoy hiking in the valley, backcountry adventures in Valhalla Provincial Park, family-friendly mountain biking on the Slocan Valley Rail Trail, adaptive riding at Mt. Abriel trails in Nakusp, and reach the summit of Saddle Mountain Lookout with 360 degree views of the valley below. Unleash your adventurous spirit and join us for an unforgettable journey filled with exciting paddle, hike, and mountain bike experiences.
SLOCAN VALLEY COMMUNITIES
With a population of 1,605, Nakusp proudly stands as the largest community along this intriguing route. Nestled on the scenic shores of the Upper Arrow Lake, in the Slocan Valley with the Selkirks to the east and the Monshees to the west.
Discover the other enchanting communities, south of Nakusp along Highway 23. North of New Denver is resides Hills – an ex-lumber siding that is coming into its own. Today, Hills proudly wears the crown as the heartland of the renowned Hills Garlic Festival – an enchanting blend of culture and agriculture happening each year.
New Denver is a hub of outdoor opportunities including fishing, hiking, biking, scuba diving, water and winter sports. Make sure you check out the rails-to-trails, 13-km Galena Trail which follows the old Nakusp and Slocan railway bed.
Located on the serene Slocan Lake, a breezy 5-km cycle south of New Denver, Silverton is BC’s smallest town with a population of 195 people. Pick up some delicacies from an array of eateries and relish them at the picture-perfect Day Park. At the Dewis Park, fun and adventure blend with amenities like a playground, tennis court, ball field and picnic areas. The community’s eye-catching crafts stores, gourmet dining spots, and cozy accommodations are sure to keep you staying longer in the valley.
Slocan proudly stands as the final stoppage on the revered old railway. Sternwheelers animated the lake’s surface, dutifully transporting minerals, goods, and people. And, in 1942 residents witnessed an influx of Japanese-Canadians who were interned, filling the village and neighbouring areas with a unique multicultural spirit. As a heartfelt nod towards that era, the only surviving Buddhist Cemetery nestles at the town cemetery’s end.
Situated at the southernmost point of the expansive, 45-km long Slocan Lake, the village offers diverse accommodations – from cozy, inviting hotel to homely B&B and camping spots. The north encapsulates the untouched beauty of the pristine and crystalline Slocan Lake, while looking westward, the majestic Valhalla Provincial Park spires tower over the village and the lake. And, their eastern panoramic view boasts of the awe-inspiring Idaho Peak and Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park.
Winlaw, is one of the funkiest hubs in the Slocan Valley. With a rich array of attractions that include a medicinal herb store, a metaphysical bookstore, hidden art galleries, an active community hall, a mouth-watering bakery, and refreshing fruit & veggie stands. Standing tall in their historic roots, the community pays homage to the legacy of John B. Winlaw who, around 1900, established a sawmill which would lay the foundation for this thriving hamlet. Winlaw celebrates its diverse lifestyles – by conserving their traditional roots.
Crescent Valley is located at the southern entrance to the Slocan Valley. Rapids thrill white-water paddlers across the spectrum, ranging from Class 1 to 2, and scaling up to Class 3. And, let’s not forget their Russian ancestry lending an interesting edge to Crescent Valley’s narrative. A significant portion of their land was acquired by none other than the Doukhobor leader, Peter Vasiliyevitch Verigin.
Get ready to discover the wonders that await you along this extraordinary route.
