PART 1

The rich history of Miȼ̓qaqas ʔakinmit̓uq / Columbia River as it is known in the Ktunaxa language, and its tributaries – have long served as vital transportation routes for Indigenous Peoples. These waterways played a crucial role throughout the seasons, enabling canoe travel in summer months and providing passage over ice in winter.

We invite you to follow the journey, beginning in Canal Flats and continue through the region as it progresses to Castlegar and continues flowing southwest (through Washington and Oregon) before it enters the Pacific Ocean. From the Headwaters, follows the flow of the Columbia River from Canal Flats to Fairmont Hot Springs, Windermere, Invermere and Radium Hot Springs.

CANAL FLATS | ʔak̓amuk̓uⱡ 

Columbia Lake, Ya·kiⱡʔuniⱡiⱡki Kwiⱡqⱡi, begins where deep springs feed the marshy terrain near Canal Flats. As the Columbia River flows north, it expands to form an impressive 25.2 sq-km lake. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, boating, and paddling, as well as relaxing with a picnic at the Tilley Memorial Park.

FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS | Kǂaq̓akinuknana

Traveling north on Highway 93/95 from Canal Flats to Invermere, passing through Fairmont Hot Springs offers an exceptional journey framed by the Canadian Rockies to the east and the Purcell Mountains to the west. This picturesque route highlights the natural beauty of the region.

Atop at the Fairmont Hot Springs Hoodoos, ʔaknumuk̓, as these unique formations are rooted in the heart of the Ktunaxa Creation Story. The awe-inspiring geological marvels dispersed across the Kootenay landscape are profoundly believed to be the preserved ribs of Naⱡmuqȼin, embedding this area’s profound, enduring legacy. (Read the Ktunaxa Creation Story to learn more about Naⱡmuqȼin.)

Fairmont Hot Springs, Kǂaq̓akinuknana, is recognized for its renowned natural hot springs, a key feature that attracts visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of its mineral-rich waters – known as Nupika Wu’u or Spirit Waters. The site also holds significant historical importance, having served as a place of healing and spiritual practices for the Ktunaxa people long before resort development.

WINDERMERE

The river gradually narrows, travels north and expands to form Lake Windermere, ʔakiskq̓nuk – a renowned destination for water sports enthusiasts. The lake features three prominent beaches along its shoreline: one located in Windermere and two in Invermere (the James Chabot Provincial Park and Kinsmen Beach & Park).

INVERMERE | Kyanuqǂiʔit

Explore the Wilmer Wetlands (in Wilmer, Ktunwakaqǂaǂaǂiʔit) to experience a unique intersection of ecological richness and cultural heritage. This area not only serves as a biodiversity hotspot, but also offers Ktunaxa interpretive signage, providing meaningful perspectives on the land’s ecological and historical significance. Visiting the wetlands offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of the environment through the values and traditions of the Ktunaxa people.

For generations, Indigenous peoples – especially the Ktunaxa and Secwépemc nations – have expertly navigated, cared for, and thrived in the Columbia’s headwaters and wetlands. These rich lands are home to vital archaeological sites and cherished traditional use areas, reflecting a deep and enduring connection.

Kootenae House, which stood 200-years ago, is located 2-km north of Invermere and now is a landmark in the history of trade between the Ktunaxa people and European fur traders since 1807. As the site of the North West Company’s first regional fur trading post, it played a key role in shaping both Indigenous and Canadian history. The location, set on terraced grassland with panoramic views of the Columbia Valley, is also where renowned explorer David Thompson began his significant survey of the Columbia River. Visiting this historic site offers a meaningful understanding of the cultural and historical interactions that influenced the development of the region.

Columbia River Paddle (CRP) – Experience the natural beauty of the Columbia River and Wetlands in Invermere. Family-friendly guided voyager canoe tours are offered from Invermere to Radium Hot Springs, interpretive wetlands excursions, and self-guided rentals including SUPs, kayaks, and canoes from both Kinsmen Beach and CRP’s Invermere launch location.

Pete’s Marina – Located along the scenic Columbia River in Athalmer (5-minute drive north of Invermere), this waterfront facility offers a range of rental options, including ski boats, pontoon boats, and Seadoos. Tube rentals are also provided for an enhanced on-water experience.

Playwest Mountain Experiences – Offering a half-day guided hike along the picturesque western bluffs of the Wilmer Wetlands near Invermere. This accessible, family-friendly experience provides an opportunity to discover one of the region’s most ecologically diverse environments and observe local wildlife, including elk, deer, and numerous bird species.

RADIUM HOT SPRINGS | Yakyu¢ki

Experience the legendary spirit waters of Yakyu¢ki, cherished by the Ktunaxa as Nupika Wu’u for their powerful spiritual and healing qualities. These revered hot springs have been a cornerstone of Ktunaxa heritage for centuries, and today, they remain an essential destination that seamlessly connects the past with the present.

The Old Coach Trail in Radium Hot Springs provides exceptional views of the Columbia River Valley. Positioned on the benchlands above the wetlands, the trail allows visitors to overlook the marshes and river channels below. Designated viewpoints along the route showcase expansive panoramas of wetland channels, marsh grasses, and prominent mountain ranges, notably the Purcell Mountains to the west.

COLUMBIA RIVER WETLANDS

The Columbia River and its wetlands are powerful sources of food, medicine, and essential materials, continuing to be vital grounds for fishing, hunting, gathering, and travel for the Ktunaxa and other nations. The birds, fish, and wildlife here hold deep cultural and subsistence importance for the Ktunaxa, and their connection to this land remains unshakable.

Learn more: Part 2 – Golden to Revelstoke and Part 3 – Nakusp to Castlegar.